Why We All Love Tradition

Christmas wouldn’t be the same without carols and stockings. Fiona Wright explores why rituals are important – and how to create your own…

- Fiona Wright

The time is 9.50pm on Christmas Eve. I am placing carrots and a small brandy by the fireplace next to the stockings, ready for you-know-who and his reindeer, despite the fact that my children are well into their teens.

Candles glow on tables and carols are playing softly on the radio. Monopoly and Scrabble tournaments are underway, and we’re tucking into cinnamon eggnog and mince pies.

The truth is, we could enjoy spicy milk drinks, play board games and listen to Little Donkey any time of the year. But we don’t.

And why, despite the fact that my children have known for nearly a decade that no one is coming down the chimney, do they insist on the stockings and carrot ritual?

According to research, there are huge benefits to recreating the same experiences year in, year out, especially during winter months.

Close connections

A study from the University of Connecticut in the US says Christmas rituals and traditions give a sense of belonging, helping us reconnect with close family, relatives and friends. They even have an impact on mental health, giving us a feeling of deep calm and contentment. Repeating age-old customs makes us feel secure, and gives us a sense of continuity and control over our lives.

“Everyday life can be stressful and chaotic,” says life coach and therapist Rachel Martin. “Having a special time of year, when we know exactly what to do, the way we’ve always done it, provides a sense of structure, comfort and rhythm that isn’t always present in our work and home lives. Our brains love patterns, so our subconscious laps this up.”

Anything, says Rachel, that is well-practised, easy and familiar can relieve stress and anxiety, making us take a break from the daily grind.