Keep it natural

A common complaint about the holidays is their overwhelming focus on consumerism. Look to Mother Nature for your decorations, and you’ll keep yourself grounded and uplifted instead of feeling like you’re drowning in stuff.

There’s the obvious Christmas tree, of course. Other ideas for natural décor include wreaths made of bay leaves, pine boughs, bouquets of holly branches, a glass bowl filled with pinecones for a centerpiece, and a bowl of oranges studded with cloves. Theses attractive ways of celebrating the season also have the benefit of smelling fabulous, costing little, and providing a boost to the spirit. Going outside to gather the raw materials with your kids also makes a lovely holiday ritual. And speaking of rituals…