5 Ideas to get into the Christmas Spirit

As an adult, Christmas changes from being indulged by your loved ones, eating all your favourite things and having time off school, to organising everyone’s time, fun and budgets. It’s no wonder that getting into the Christmas spirit can feel like a challenge, especially when you’re faced with the costs too, it can be anything but magical.

We explore what exactly Christmas spirit is and share a list of things to get you in the Christmas mood, guaranteed to help even the most Grinch-loving person feel a warm glow inside.

What is the meaning of Christmas Spirit?

It’s mentioned in Christmas adverts, written about in books and featured in festive films, but what exactly is the meaning of Christmas spirit and how can you go about ‘feeling it’?
Christmas spirit is often described as a feeling of generosity, kindness and compassion. It’s usually shown by someone gifting something that the receiver wasn’t expecting or helping those who need it. It might be inviting an elderly neighbour round for a cuppa so they’re not alone by themselves over the festive period.

This focus on generosity and kindness; giving without receiving, are all things parents are expected to do, but when you’re trying to stretch yourself out to all of your loved ones, it can feel tricky to get into the ‘spirit’.

Christmas doesn’t have to be a stressful time, even as a parent managing the expectations of overly-excited children. It’s all about perspective, sharing the mental load of organising and being able to say no when you feel stretched. For more top tips to enjoy a stress-free Christmas, check out our handy guide to get set for the big day.

If you’re struggling to feel that warm, fuzzy feeling this time of year, why not try our top 5 ideas to help get you into the Christmas spirit?

Top 5 ideas to get you in a Christmas mood

1. Spend time doing what you love

Whether that’s spending time with your loved ones, reading a book or enjoying your favourite hobby, carve out some time for yourself. Giving yourself some time and space to do something you love will help you to de-stress and keep a positive outlook this time of year.

2. Create your own family traditions

Don’t feel pressured to re-create other traditions if your budgets and patience can’t stretch – you can simply create your own. If matching family PJs isn’t your thing but baking festive treats is, get baking! We’ve shared some great Christmas craft ideas that are family-friendly, very low budget and will help spread that Christmas spirit.

Involving your children in your new traditions will instantly add some festive cheer and help raise Christmas spirits as you make positive memories. Traditions are meant to be memorable things to look forward to and creating your own helps bring joy, even if you’re not feeling it yet.

3. Give into Christmas films and songs

They’re only around for a few weeks a year, so instead of rejecting them, embrace them! There are so many classic Christmas movies that are perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. If you love classical films and want your children to enjoy them, why not watch “Miracle on 34th Street” and “It’s a Wonderful Life” together.

Making time to sit and watch films together is another great way to relax and unwind at a busier time of year, whilst helping you get into the spirit of things. Avoid feeling like “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas” (another family favourite!) and get into the Christmas spirit with cheesy films and catchy songs.

4. Organise a day out

It could be at a local farm shop, a festive market or to watch the Christmas lights being switched on. Getting out and about to enjoy time with your friends and family is ideal for helping the Christmas spirit to flow. Being surrounded by Christmas lights, music and tasty food will be just the thing to help get you into that festive cheer.

5. Throw on that Christmas jumper

If you’re still not feeling that Christmas spirit after watching films, hearing the songs and eating the treats, wearing festive clothes will help get you into the spirit of things. If you don’t currently have a Christmas Jumper, try your local charity shop and help support them at the same time. Why not have a dedicated Christmas jumper day in your family and have fun with it – the more colourful and over the top the better!

If you do find yourself feeling overwhelmed in the run-up to Christmas, try one of our ideas and embrace the more fun, family-focused side of the season. It can be a stressful and expensive time of year but it doesn’t need to be. Share your concerns with your family and set your budgets and expectations early, making sure to include your kids.

Let yourself get into the Christmas spirit this year and embrace the simpler joys this time of year can bring.

5 fun-filled ideas to get into the Christmas spirit