By: Lilah Sanchez
As the days grow shorter and the weather becomes cold, we instinctively seek the things we find comfort in. Everything seems to slow down during the holidays and allows us to move at a more steady pace. Whether you’re drinking a steaming cup of delicious hot cocoa or rewatching your favorite movie, there’s something about the winter months that’s so nostalgic. One of my favorite traditions in my household is decorating the Christmas tree. I love the fresh smell of pine needles and listening to Frank Sinatra’s “Let It Snow” as my sister and I struggle to get the star on the top. Despite the cold outside, our homes grow warmer in the winter time. Certain foods, music, movies, and traditions bring us stability not only because they remind us of fond memories, but also because they activate psychological and biological responses that make us feel safe and cozy.
Waking up to the sweet smell of cinnamon and going on late night drives to Balboa Island to see all of the twinkling Christmas lights reminds me how comforting the holidays can be. A tradition that has been consistent throughout most of my life is the Boat Parade with my family and friends. I can remember the first time I went when I was four. I was amazed by all of the boats slowly passing by me, decorated with pretty lights and blasting festive music. Every year when I go, I get to revisit those magical memories that made my childhood Christmases so special. Another tradition that I adore is Christmas breakfast with my grandparents, aunts, and uncles where we all have fun playing board games and card games. Experiences like these remain vivid because of the impact they have on our emotions and how they affect the way we think of the holidays.
I always find myself rewatching my favorite movies and tv shows in the winter time. There’s something so nostalgic about cozying up on the couch in my comfiest pjs and watching Gilmore Girls. Every time I turn it on, it brings me back to when I was lying in bed with my mom and watching it for the first time. Not only is this habit nostalgic, but it’s also emotionally beneficial, soothing the nervous system and activating reward pathways in the brain. Watching familiar films is so calming because our brains know what to expect, there’s no uncertainty and that reduces anxiety. During the colder months, this sense of predictability improves our overall mood, decreases loneliness, and increases feelings of connection.
Something I look forward to all year long is the Christmas lasagna and snowball cookies my grandmas’ make. The smell of the lasagna cooking in the oven and the mess that the powdered sugar leaves on my hands reminds me that the holidays are finally here. I love Christmas dinners, sitting around the table with my family, laughing, sharing memories, and enjoying other’s company. It truly is so wonderful to be able to spend time with my family and share a meal. Comfort foods boost serotonin and dopamine in our brains which creates a calm and peaceful feeling, explaining why these meals feel so special. We associate food with experiences and the emotions we feel during those moments.
We seek comfort and coziness during the holidays because winter reduces serotonin levels, increasing negative emotions and decreasing our energy and concentration. In order to combat these deficiencies, we must focus on the things that make us happy and bring us positivity, such as our favorite movies, comfort foods, music, and traditions.
