The Psychology Behind Christmas Movies & Our Personal Favorites

The festive season is upon us, and we are eagerly counting down the days until Christmas, anticipating the joy of seeing one another again! In the spirit of the holidays, we have decided to kick off the season by sharing our excitement and delving into the world of our favorite Christmas movies. Now, let us talk about the enchanting world of Christmas movies. The allure of these films goes beyond mere entertainment; there's a psychological underpinning to our love for them, as explained by Psychology Today: holiday movies have the power to boost our mood and alleviate symptoms of depression, providing a temporary escape from the stressors of daily life. They tap into our sense of nostalgia, transporting us to the "good old days" with heartwarming stories, familiar images, and comforting music. These films trigger a longing for the simplicity, hope, and happiness associated with times gone by, offering a respite from the complexities of the real world.

As most of us do not lead "Hallmark Christmas" lives, these movies provide a welcome escape from the ever day hustle and bustle. They create a space where we can unwind, immerse ourselves in heartwarming tales, and momentarily forget the demands of reality. Moreover, the family-friendly nature of holiday movies allows us to establish new traditions. When shared with loved ones, these cinematic experiences become the building blocks of shared memories, strengthening relationships and amplifying positive emotions.

So, the next time you find yourself guiltily indulging in a cheesy "Hallmark" movie, remember – it's not just entertainment; it's a therapeutic escape that's good for your well-being.

Now, onto our personal favorites:

• "The Holiday"
• For me (Marit), "The Holiday" holds a special place in my heart. This Christmas classic enchants viewers with its compelling storyline and a stellar cast that brings the festive magic to life. Without giving away too much, I encourage everyone to experience the joy of this movie. It's a Christmas tale where you might predict the outcome, but the journey is what makes it truly magical.
• "Home Alone"
• "Home Alone" is a must-watch, but only the first two movies hold the true magic. The misadventures of Kevin McCallister as he defends his home from burglars are timeless and quintessentially Christmas. If you haven't watched it yet, this holiday season is the perfect time to start a tradition. 

While these two take the top spots for me, (almost) all other Christmas movies hold a special place in my heart, since all Christmas movies are special and cheesy in their own way! 

• "White Christmas"
• For me (Leah), "White Christmas" is a movie that became a Christmas tradition for my family. Every year it was the movie we watched Christmas evening. Although it is an old movie, it is a story line that will never get old. The plot is about over coming adversity and people coming together with the Christmas spirit.

While this is the main one I like to watch every Christmas, I enjoy almost every other "Hallmark" type movies. I make it a priority every season to go through all the typical, cliche Christmas movies on Hallmark, Netflix, and Amazon. I enjoy escaping my extremely hectic and stressful life with the warm and happy vibes that these movies entice. 

As we embark on this holiday season, let the magic of Christmas movies fill your hearts with joy, nostalgia, and a sense of togetherness. After all, there is something truly magical about cozying up with loved ones and losing ourselves in the enchanting world of holiday cinema.