5 Ways To Reclaim Christmas From Childhood Memories
Christmas is one of those holidays you either love or hate. It fills people with emotions. But if you didn’t have the best upbringing, it often fills you with negative ones. As I move into adulthood and take control of my life, I’ve decided it’s time to make Christmas what I always dreamed it to be about and leave all my old wounds behind. So how do you reclaim a classic childhood holiday as an adult?
Revel in the Christmas Traditions Your Inner Child Longed for
Every adult knows the best part of being an adult is there is no one to truly tell you no. So make those homemade stockings you always dreamed of. Bake gingerbread cookies from scratch! Light your house so bright you can see it from space! I know some might say those material things are hollow and it’s true you don’t need them to celebrate the Christmas spirit. But they will help you get excited and create a homey atmosphere. They offer a drastic change of plans and energy compared with your childhood Christmas.
Find Joy In Being The Giver
Christmas is all about love and kindness between people. You can’t control who gives you kindness and how much you receive but you can control how much you give. This is a great time of year to practice the art of giving to the world just because it makes the world a brighter and lighter place. Don’t think about what you karmically deserve in return because the truth is it will always come to you just often not in the ways you expect. So, become the warm and loving person you so desperately craved in your life as a child so you can break the cycle of disappointment.
Celebrate Christmas With Those You Love
This is a normal Christmas tradition but one that leaves many people with a longing for genuine loving relationships in their life. But I believe it’s time for us to celebrate the untraditional love we are gifted with. My most meaningful relationship for years was my dog so when I think of who I want to celebrate Christmas with it’s him. Reach out to friends, coworkers, neighbors and celebrate the spirit of Christmas together. I know many people have plans with their family on the day of Christmas but it doesn’t matter which exact day you celebrate. It is simply about honoring the love you have in your life.
Buy Yourself One Thing That Reminds You of Being a Child
This doesn’t have to be your present on Christmas morning. It is just important you find a way to honor your inner child and change the narrative of pain brought from Christmas as a child. Remember it isn’t simply about buying a toy but buying something that transports you back to being a kid. It should bring sincere glee and excitement to your face.
Then, you need to do the most important step, lean into the feeling. Don’t put any boundaries on what is appropriate to feel or how you should behave. Embrace everything this toy brings up for you. It is okay if there is some pain with it. Let tears roll down your cheeks so you can release the pain for all your future celebrations.
Thank Someone From Your Childhood
Part of releasing your past hardships is acknowledging the good moments that were gifted to you back then as well. It is a practice of gratitude that will brighten dark memories and bring further joy into your present. In even the darkest of situations, there is always a light of kindness, love, or warmth to be found. Think about who brought this light to your life. Even if it’s as small as the cafeteria lady in middle school. Try to get in touch with at least one of these people and thank them.
If you can’t reach anyone, then write a letter telling them everything you want to say. Sit with the letter and send that person gratitude, love, and joy in your mind. Then, burn it. This act will still create the powerful energy of gratitude inside you, one that easily spreads love to those who come in contact with you.
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Blog by Nicole Asherah. Nicole Asherah is an artist who tries to connect people to intimate moments, feelings, and relationships experienced throughout life through her poetry, paintings, and photography.
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