“Christmas traditions are comforting as they have the power to instantly evoke childhood memories of Christmases past,” she says. “It’s a simple way of connecting to your past and reaffirming your sense of identity and belonging to both your family and your community.”

Feeling connected to the past through these traditions also helps us to feel safe and secure, which adds to the soothing nature of the activities, Hallissey adds.

“Repeating the traditions and rituals of your childhood is a way of connecting to your past, reaffirming your connection to your family and of bringing your past into the future,” she says. “This creates feelings of safety and belonging which feel comforting and reassuring.

“Traditions are also a way to reaffirm values that are important to you, such as connection to family and friends, togetherness, thinking of others and giving back to your community.”

Christmas psychology: why does completing traditions feel so comforting?