How Christmas Can Be Good for Your Health
The Magical Effects of Christmas Movies
One of the benefits of binge-watching Christmas movies is that it stimulates the release of dopamine, more commonly known as the “feel-good hormone”, scientists and health professionals agree. Several studies have looked into the subject, reporting that these stories are good for boosting our mood and, more specifically, for our brain.
As psychotherapist Dr Jo Gee explained to British media outlet LADbible in 2019: “Watching Christmas films can actually make you feel happy, due to the neurological effect the viewing has on the brain. When we watch enjoyable films, it causes our brain to release dopamine and oxytocin, our feel-good hormones which lift our mood and make us want to connect with others.”
All of which is a good reason to watch “Happiest Season”, “Home Alone” and “The Nightmare Before Christmas” without feeling guilty.
The Health Benefits of ‘Christmas Spices’
The festive season is not only good for boosting our mood and our mental health, it can also improve our physical health. One way is through the spices we tend to consume at this time of year.
Cinnamon is believed to be rich in antioxidants, which help combat damage caused by free radicals. It is also understood to have anti-inflammatory properties, as does nutmeg, which can aid digestion and sleep.
Spices such as cloves and cinnamon have been said to contain health-boosting properties.
Cloves, meanwhile, are claimed to help soothe pain (for instance in the teeth and throat) and to have antibacterial properties that help fight certain infections.
It should be noted, however, that in terms of diet, the festive season is also a period rich in fat, alcohol and sugar, so it’s wise to try to keep overindulgence to a minimum.
Mood-Boosting Decorations
Some wait until the last moment to put up the traditional Christmas tree in their home, while others like to set it up as soon as possible, adorning their interior with a host of garlands and other seasonal objects to help them get into the holiday mood. The ensemble creates a warm, snug atmosphere, which can make us feel good.
“Decorating around the holidays can give us a little spike of feel-good hormones that can scientifically boost our mood,” psychiatrist Neha Chaudhary told the online publication Well+Good.
Between comfort, conviviality and nostalgia, this shared moment also stimulates release of that famous feel-good hormone. Merry Christmas!
Conclusion
While the festive season can be a time of indulgence and overindulgence, it can also be a time of joy, relaxation, and even health benefits. By incorporating activities like watching Christmas movies, consuming healthy spices, and decorating our homes, we can boost our mood and overall well-being.
FAQs
Q: Can Christmas movies really boost my mood?
A: Yes, research suggests that watching Christmas movies can stimulate the release of dopamine, also known as the “feel-good hormone”, which can improve our mood.
Q: Are Christmas spices good for my health?
A: Yes, many Christmas spices, such as cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, have been shown to have health-boosting properties, including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Q: Can decorating my home for Christmas really improve my mood?
A: Yes, decorating our homes for the holidays can stimulate the release of feel-good hormones and create a warm, snug atmosphere that can make us feel good.