The holidays are more than just gift giving, lights and festivities. Each family has their own unique holiday traditions. Perhaps you have some from childhood that you continue on into adulthood. Others you may have outgrown. Yet if you have children, you might continue to do them. These traditions have been passed down through the years and connect us to previous generations.
Not only does these benefit individuals, but it also impacts communities. Perhaps yours had a parade, a picnic, or tree lighting based on the holiday. It brings many families together. These traditions have a wonderful psychological impact.
How holiday traditions lead to a sense of joy, purpose and belonging
Stability
These rituals give us a sense of stability in our ever-changing worlds. People grow and change; yet these traditions continue year after year. It helps to give a sense of predictability in our crazy lives. This can offer us a sense of stability and comfort.
Dr. Barbara H. Fiese, who studies family’s rituals and routines, says that the traditions are vital for a family’s well being. These holiday traditions, whether it is lighting a menorah or tree, or preparing a special meal, lead to sharing a history, and increases a family’s sense of identity. In addition, it leads to feelings of cohesion and a secure and supportive environment that is valuable for mental health.
Connection and Community
A huge piece of holiday traditions are the sense of connection and community. You may share this tradition at home, with your religious community, or even the broader community. They give us the opportunity to bond as a society and bring a sense of belonging.
Positive psychology research stresses the significance of these connections for our mental well-being. Sharing these holiday traditions increase our social ties, which give us a support system during the holiday season. We all know the holidays can be stressful, and these rituals can comfort us. Being together as a community for a celebration, such as a parade or lighting ceremony brings us together. As we share this celebration, we have a collective feeling of unity as well as joy.
Creation of meaning and purpose
For those who are spiritual or religions, these holiday traditions typically carry a significant sense of purpose and meaning. These rituals have been passed down from generation to generation. This framework provides an understanding and sense of our place in this world.
Viktor Frankl writes about the importance of finding meaning in life, as it what got him through the Holocaust. He says that having a sense of purpose is fundamental to our well-being. These religious or cultural ceremonies give us a chance to connect to something larger than ourselves. Having a connection to a greater purpose can lead to feelings of satisfaction and fulfillment.
Mindfulness and being in the moment
Holidays are the most enjoyable when you are mindful and in the moment. Savor those holiday traditions, whether they are the special foods for that holiday, being together as family, or practicing gratitude. Doing so will allow you to fully engage in the fun, love, connection and festivities.
It has also been shown to improve mental health, decrease stress and improve overall well-being.
Mindfulness can provide a break in the craziness of the holidays and daily life. It gives you a chance to recharge your batteries and appreciate the beauty of the holiday season.
A sense of excitement
Having holiday traditions give us a sense of excitement and anticipation. Having something to look forward to lifts our mood. It also helps to break up the routine of life. That sense of excitement can last even longer than the actual event. We can dream about the upcoming day and traditions that come with it.
Altruism in holiday traditions
Generosity and acts of kindness often go with holiday traditions. Perhaps you donate to the food bank or a place that provides holiday meals. Maybe you help prepare these meals, or donate money or food to other organizations. Any type of volunteering or gift giving makes us feel good. Doing so improves our mental health, makes us happier, and is fulfilling.
As you can see, there are many ways in which our holiday traditions play a key role in our mental well being. Think about all the traditions you engage in. There are probably more than you realize. Be grateful for these rituals and all the benefits they hold in your life. You may even want to journal about them to have an even richer experience.
If you struggle during the holiday season, or any time of year, therapy can help. Give me a call at 713-304-6554.
Take care,
Debbie Grammas
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