Magical Christmas Eve
Make Christmas Eve feel Magical with these 5 small design shifts
The big day is almost here! I’ve found myself wondering why we spend soooo much time and effort on one day every year, which before you know it, is over? But having said all of that, Christmas Eve is a magical time, it’s a quiet, reflective time, when we can put our feet up and breathe a deep sigh (of relief) or of accomplishment (take your pick). It’s a time to exhale and pause before the flurry of activity and excitement that Christmas Day brings. It’s also a moment to look back on the year and start to look forward to and anticipate what is to come in the new year.
Take time to relax
So, in the spirit of softness and reflection, let’s turn our attention to our homes- and before you say, “ oh, no…. you’re not going to suggest another thing to do, are you?
Let’s rather be intentional about creating a cosy, warm, inviting and restful space for ourselves and our families. How do we do that…?
Here are five small design shifts for you to try.
1. Layer your lighting
Christmas Eve lighting should feel gentle and calming - soft lighting - use lamps instead of overhead lights, or make sure dimmer switches are turned down low or a sprinkling of fairy lights in your living room.
Light does affect the nervous system a lot more than we realise. Softer, warmer lighting tells the body that it’s safe to slow down.
If you’ve noticed that your home feels calmer the moment the main bright light goes off—that’s definitely not a coincidence.
Soft Christmas Lights
2. Linen napkins
Linen napkins are all about how things feel so it’s not about impressing anyone. It’s all about the 5 senses and slowing down - they may not be as colourful as paper napkins but they’re definitely softer and do signal that whatever the meal is -that we are present and that this meal even if it’s leftovers or pizza is important.
Be present whilst sipping a delicious hot chocolate
3. Candles
Candles, I just love candles -there’s that soft warm light again. Candles are not just for the dining table or the mantel. What about placing candles in unexpected places – like the entrance/ hallway to your home, or in the bathroom or on a bedside table. (this is all dependant on any little people or furry animals -so use your discretion)
Turn ordinary spaces into little pockets filled with soft light.
Turn ordinary spaces into little pockets filled with soft light.
4. Christmas scents
Choose one scent that you love whether it’s: orange peel and clove; pine or fir; Frankincense or myrrh or vanilla. Allow it to waft through your home during this Festive season. Be mindful that only one scent is used -too many is a little confusing for the senses. Remember scent forms part of our memories just like music (that special song); it’s the scent that’ll take you and your family back to this special time together (along with the soft lighting and music) — definitely not the decorations.
Christmas Scents
5. Sound
Music rouses the emotions -to a sense of joy or nostalgia – it sets us up emotionally – so consider how you’d like this Christmas Eve to feel – gentle, relaxing, reflective and familiar? Then choose the appropriate music - Soft jazz, instrumental carols, acoustic playlists, the murmur of chatter or quiet - silence can be intentional too.
Magical Christmas silence
Christmas Eve is not about being busy or finishing touches or wrapping those last-minute gifts!
It’s about taking a step back from all the busy days, tired evenings, striving and overwhelm. Christmas Eve is a moment to notice that. Be with yourself and ask yourself these questions:
Which spaces in my home supported me this year?
Where did I feel most at ease?
What am I ready to let go of?
No solutions - just be aware of the spaces in your home where this took place. That is enough. Be gentle with yourself.
Do nothing else tonight but lower the lights, light a candle, sit down without adjusting anything… and relax.
Creating space to be present with yourself…. is the real magic of Christmas Eve.
