It’s been a tough year, so there’s no excuse but to make sure this festive season is full of good feelings that take our minds away from all our worries. Here are 5 ways for you and your family to prioritise feeling good this festive season:

1. Baking

We’re all looking for a little bit of normalcy in a year that has turned our lives upside down. Baking is a fun family activity that will stir up a bit of festive cheer. The smell of Christmas cookies in the oven will create a homey feel and the finished products will give you all a sense of accomplishment. The best part is, you get to enjoy some yummy homemade festive treats.

2. Get a Little Crafty

Get those creative juices flowing by creating cards and decorations with some personal flair. Crafting will help take your mind off of all of your worries for a little bit. Your creation doesn’t have to be complicated, work with what you have and get everyone involved. Try using some recycled materials so you’re helping out the planet too – a double dose of good feels! You can take some inspiration from our previous DIY Décor Ideas blog, simply use some wrapping paper or holiday-themed trinkets to make them more festive.

3. Keep in Touch

Small gatherings are going to be common this festive season with most people opting for more intimate family celebrations. This being said, keeping in touch with the people that matter in our lives is so important. A video call with extended family or close friends can make the distance between you more bearable, and brighten up your day and theirs. Since many of us may have had to switch international travel plans for local trips, you may want to think of some creative ways to get the overseas family involved in your festivities.

4. Nostalgic Traditions

Whether you gather around the piano to sing carols, play a slightly competitive board game or watch a festive film like The Snowman, traditions will be more important than ever this year. Whatever it is that gets you and your family in festive spirits, put all of your energy into making it extra special this year – accompany it with some home-baked treats perhaps.

5. Ye Olde Family Recipes

The tastes and smells of good recipes passed down from generation to generation can be a real pick-me-up. It’s extra special to share these with younger members of the family and get them involved in the process. Whether it’s the perfect roast or a special ingredient in great granny’s bread and butter pud, that personal touch will bring back memories and provide a great topic for conversation – depending on how willing you are to share your precious recipes.

We all need some extra festive cheer this year. Decide how you’re going to add some oomph to your celebrations and go the extra mile – it’ll be well worth it.