The Magic of Christmas in Our Brain Chemistry
It’s the season of joy, goodwill, and, of course, festive splendour. The holiday festivities of Christmas are a unique and magical occasion that is celebrated by people all over the world. The buzz of Christmas celebrations is hard to miss, and the science behind it is even more fascinating.
The magic starts with the decorations that light up every nook and corner, illuminating with various colours and designs. The way in which lights work may seem ordinary, but the science behind it is quite intriguing. The colourful bulbs we use to decorate the tree contain tiny light-emitting diodes (LEDs) that shine brilliantly while barely using any electricity. Unlike traditional lighting structures, LED lights do not have a filament that heats up, so they consume less electricity and last longer than traditional lights.
But the lights are only a small part of what makes Christmas so special. The music, movies, and festivities that accompany the season are what make it truly magical. The science behind these too is fascinating. The music and films we associate so closely with Christmas releases the same hormone that is experienced when gifting or receiving gifts – dopamine. The release of dopamine is often described as the “happy hormone,” responsible for the sensation of pleasure, happiness and satisfaction.
A Brief History of Christmas Traditions: From Pagan Rituals to Coca Cola’s Santa Claus
Christmas images and music can also alter our perceptions of time. Research has shown that listening to Christmas carols or songs can affect our time-perception in such a way that we perceive time to be passing slower than it does normally. Similarly, exposing ourselves to images of holiday scenery and decoration can help reset our brain’s clock, allowing us to feel more relaxed and ultimately happier.
The gifts and presents that have become synonymous with Christmas also contain an element of science. The act of gift-giving activates the reward centre in our brains, creating a sensation of happiness and satisfaction that lingers long after the gift is received. Reciprocating the act of gift-giving through gratitude also has a similar effect, increasing levels of oxytocin in our brains. Oxytocin is known as the “cuddle hormone” because it plays a significant role in bonding and social interactions.
In addition to these neurological aspects, the physical act of receiving a gift also has numerous benefits. The excitement and anticipation of opening a gift increases one’s heart rate and blood pressure, creating a sense of nervous energy that eventually dissipates to a feeling of satisfaction and relaxation. This process is often referred to as “emotional arousal,” and it plays a vital role in keeping us engaged and motivated in life.
At the heart of all festivities, the Christmas meal also deserves a mention. While the food and drinks on offer may differ from one culture to another, they all represent a celebration of community and togetherness. Sharing a meal with loved ones can have a significant impact on our overall health and wellbeing, creating interactions between friends and family that are vital for a healthy social life.
Christmas is undoubtedly a magical occasion, and the magic lies not only in the decorations but also in the various traditions and rituals that have become so closely associated with it. The science behind these traditions offers us a deeper understanding of why the festive season holds such a special place in our hearts. From the trees to the lights, music to food, and even the presents themselves, the magic of Christmas is a culmination of various scientific processes that work together to create a memorable and joyous time for all involved.