Did you know it is scientifically proven that decorating for Christmas can actually make you happier? Oh yes my friends, it is in the interests of our health that we get those fairy lights up... With the weather getting chillier outside, it is the perfect time to start thinking about how to make our homes festive and cosy, and a sanctuary of wellbeing and rest for the winter. 

This episode includes:

• Lots of ideas for decorating in a way that engages all the senses, and brings nature indoors.
• Wellbeing tips for inviting in rest
• Nature corner
• A beautiful writing prompt for connecting with the moon
• A fun and super easy crafting project to try
• Christmas traditions from around the world (from lovely listeners!)
• Recipes for hot drinks to bring joy, and nourish
• Get ahead tips before December arrives
• PLUS A lovely cosy giveaway (enter on my Instagram @bethkempton)

With inspiration from Christopher Yokel, @realsimplemagazine, Lucy Hunter @theflowerhunter, Bex Partridge of @botanical_tales, Grace Alexander of @graceaexanderflowers, @piajanebijkerk, Ark Redwood, Lisa Hood, Lisa Hood @lahoodyoga, Lizzie Kamenetzky @deliciouslizzie, @marinawrightwellness, Anja Dunk, @StEvalCandles and @royalmuseumsgreenwich.

PS See the full show notes here for recipe ingredients and other links.

Lovely free things for you:

·      CLICK HERE to download my free simple guide to making a wreath x

·      CLICK HERE to download the free Calm Christmas Planner 

·      CLICK HERE to register for my Winter Writing Sanctuary (Dec 28-Jan 6), also free this year 

Featured in this episode:

·      Cold by Christopher Yokel in Winter Poems: New and Selected by Christopher Yokel (self-published) p.9

·      The Flower Hunter: Creating a floral love story inspired by the landscape by Lucy Hunter (Ryland Peters Small) p.197

·      The Everyday Alchemist’s Festive Season Reimagined by Pia Jane Bijkerk (self-published) p.32

·      The Art of Mindful Gardening: Sowing the Seeds of Meditation by Ark Redwood (Leaping Hare Press) p.113

·      Moon Yoga by Lisa Hood (Godsfield) p.63

·      Winter Cabin Cooking by Lizzie Kamanetzky (Ryland, Peters & Small) p.7 and p.166
·      Advent: Festive German Bakes to Celebrate the Coming of Christmas by Anja Dunk (Quadrille) p.4 and p.199
·      Calm Christmas and a Happy New Year: A little book of fe

This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit calmchristmas.substack.com