Why does Christmas feel so magical—and how can we bottle that feeling for our families? In this episode, Justin and Kylie unpack the science behind Christmas joy and reveal the seven psychological drivers that make the season feel warm, connected, nostalgic, and full of wonder.

From sensory anchors to collective effervescence, discover how small tweaks to your traditions can transform a stressful season into a slow, meaningful, joy-soaked one. This is your cheat-sheet to creating the kind of Christmas your kids will remember forever.

KEY POINTS

Relationships are the heart of Christmas—intentional togetherness boosts joy and belonging.
Anticipated joy (hello Advent calendars) fuels dopamine and lifts mood weeks before the day arrives.
Sensory anchoring—smells, sights, tastes—creates powerful nostalgia and emotional connection.
Collective effervescence elevates community energy when everyone enters the same seasonal rhythm.
Permission for wonder gives adults a rare chance to play, imagine, and embrace childlike magic.
Savouring and gratitude turn small moments into the big memories our kids carry into adulthood.
Applying these principles can fix a stressful or disappointing Christmas and make it joyful again.

QUOTE OF THE EPISODE

“Christmas is culturally sanctioned slowness—and if we savour it, the joy multiplies.”

ACTION STEPS FOR PARENTS

Prioritise connection over productivity—plan moments of slow, intentional togetherness.
Create anticipation with rituals that build excitement (tree, lights, Advent, small traditions).
Use sensory anchors—scents, recipes, music, decorations—to spark nostalgia and joy.
Lean into wonder: play, imagine, and embrace the magic your kids already feel.
Savour moments in real time—pause, breathe, and let the season be slow.

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The Psychology of Christmas Magic

The Psychology of Christmas Magic •
iHeart

Dr Justin Coulson's Happy Families