Biophillic Holiday Decorations

  

Last month, I wrote about biophillic design (What is Biophillic Design?) and the myriad of benefits it provides.  Now that the holidays are upon us, we can really put this into practice. 

Starting in the 15th century and perhaps even earlier, Europeans and eventually Americans have been celebrating the harvest and winter solstice in various ways, one of which is decorating with greens, fruit, garlands and candles.   This tradition, of taking the bounty of nature and bringing it inside to remind us that abundance surrounds us, is truly restorative.  Another way this benefits us is that it allows us to reaffirm our family rituals and connect with those closest to us.  Each year, we decorate, bake and come together, strengthening the bonds with family and dear friends.

  
  
  
 
In the busy-ness of the season, take some time to renew your spirit:

* Clip some greens from your yard.  A variety of colors and textures make decorations more interesting.  These can be placed in vases, above mantles, draped over chandeliers and wired together to make garland.

* Use seasonal fruits and vegetables in your home for inexpensive and ultimately edible displays.  You don’t need any fancy supplies.  A pumpkin in the center of the table, surrounded by greens, leaves and apples looks festive and adds beauty to your decor. 

* A few tall hurricanes filled with pinecones, cranberries, lentils or anything you have on hand, can make great bases for candles.  Fill them, line them on the center of your table and add a tapered or votive candle for instant warmth and mood enhancement.

* Add family!  Decorating with children and elders creates memories year after year that will strengthen family bonds.   For a while there, I was so overwhelmed at holiday time I didn’t even have energy to put up a Christmas tree.  One year, I suggested my two daughters each invite their best friend to have a tree decorating party.  They did all the work, it looked amazing and they had so much fun that it became our new tradition.   My girls are now in high school and college and the same two friends come over every year for this much anticipated holiday party.  What was once a chore to me has turned into something we all look forward to. 

So, this year, take a breath and bring the gifts of the earth inside to remind you of your aliveness.  Let the beauty of our natural world reconnect you to your family and your own true nature.

This article was submitted by Kathryn Robbins of Kat Robbins Interiors.


Kat Robbins Interiors
610-291-4220
Wayne, PA 19087

Superior Woodcraft is a local custom cabinet maker from Doylestown, Pa - the heart of Bucks County.

Source:
Superior Woodcraft, Inc.
Superior Woodcraft Blog