A six-year-old reminds us that Granny needs her music more than the John Lewis Dad needs a vinyl

John Lewis may have got the message right, but Music for Dementia’s Christmas ad, shot on a shoestring budget, reveals the missing audience.

Music for Dementia has today released a powerful new Christmas film.

Inspired by the John Lewis ad, the film demonstrates the unspoken power of music, but this time in the lives of families impacted by dementia. 

The Music for Dementia campaign conceived and shot the film in just ten days on a shoestring budget, casting friends and family in the film to show how music can connect generations.

The film opens with an old woman isolated and locked out of technology as she fumbles with a vinyl record and in a poignant moment, she contemplates putting CDs into her toaster. 

She is handed a children’s audio player by her six-year-old granddaughter. With the simple inserted of a card, the Yoto Player (designed for kids but brilliantly easy to use for all ages), instantly connects her with m4dRADIO, a radio station specifically designed to give those living with dementia non-stop access to music from different decades. Immediately, the family shares a special moment of connection across three generations, and the woman’s world becomes instantly brighter.

The six-year-old star of the film is Aria Wheele, whose mother, Peyton, works for Music for Dementia. Aria, who has no previous activating experience, told That's Christmas 365: “Being on set was like stepping into a giant storybook. I got to wear a costume, and help everyone smile with music, it was cool.”

Amy Shackleton, Project Lead at Music for Dementia says: “John Lewis's Christmas campaign articulates something Music for Dementia has been advocating for years, that music connects us.

"It’s great that they are helping shine a light on the power of music, but we’re mindful that the people that need music the most often find it hardest to listen to because of barriers with technology. 

"That’s why we decided to make our own Christmas film - albeit in just a few days and with a tiny budget! We think it packs an emotional punch and hope it encourages families to help their loved ones enjoy the gift of music this Christmas.”

Recent Music for Dementia research with 1,000 family carers of people living with dementia reveals the scale of the problem: only three in ten older family carers are able to stream music with their loved one 

Age UK research paints a similar picture,they found that six in ten internet users aged 65 or over never use the internet to stream music or videos.

Music for Dementia spent the last year working with families living with dementia to understand why they struggle to listen to music, redesigning its m4dRADIO interface in order to make it easier. It’s part of the charity's Music Made Easy campaign launched earlier this year, calling on tech companies and music streamers to help older generations access their music.

It discovered that children’s tech is leading the way in creating screen-free, tactile, intuitive devices. In May of this year Music for Dementia ran a pilot trial with 180 families affected by dementia, giving them each a children’s Yoto Player and a Yoto card that when inserted, plays automatically, allowing them to listen to m4dRADIO in one simple move. 80% of families said the Yoto Player increased the amount that they were able to listen to music, and 92% of participating families would recommend screen-free music devices for older people.

Following the success of the Yoto trial, Music for Dementia is giving away 500 free Yoto kits, which include a 20% discount code for a Yoto Player, Yoto cards which give access to m4dRADIOs six non-stop music channels and handy stickers to attach to the device with easy-to-read instructions. To apply for a free Yoto kit visit https://www.musicfordementia.org.uk/yoto

Dom Hodge, Head of Music and Sound at Yoto, commented: “Yoto's screen-free, intuitive technology was designed to empower children as young as three to access audio independently, and this pilot with Music for Dementia showed that it's equally effective at connecting people living with dementia to the music they love simply and easily without screens or complicated mechanisms. 

This powerful film perfectly highlights how simple, accessible tech can break down barriers and bring joy to families through the universal power of music."

In the UK there are 940,000 people living with dementia, and this figure is projected to rise to 1.5million by 2040. Research shows music can manage dementia symptoms such as agitation and distress, bring back memories and even abilities thought lost, create moments of joy and overcome isolation.

You can learn more about Yoto here https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/09/the-yoto-player-and-yoto-mini-world-of.html

Southend Foodbank launches live festive Reverse Advent Calendar

As food banks across the country prepare for the busy festive season, Southend Foodbank is sharing the story behind its newly launched Reverse Advent Calendar campaign,  brought to life thanks to the creativity and teamwork of staff, volunteers and their families.

Every day for 24 days, the Foodbank is releasing a new short video across its social media channels, each highlighting an item on their Reverse Advent Calendar in a bid to encourage donations in the run up to Christmas.

The idea was sparked by the Foodbank’s Comms & Campaigns Coordinator, Cass Francis, and within days, everyone was pitching in to make it a reality. A life-size Advent calendar door and backdrop were hand-built and volunteers were enlisted, with recent university graduate Henry Goodchild volunteering his time to film.

Cass told That's Christmas 365: “It’s a combination of a calendar and a cuckoo clock! We had such fun filming it, with all sorts of volunteers adding their own flourish to every day on the calendar. We’ve got downloadable versions of the calendar on our website too, so people can print off a version and tick off the items as they collect them.

“It’s going to be a really tough winter for the Foodbank and the guests that visit us, we are so grateful to everyone that continues to donate food, money or their time.”

The Foodbank have even had some help from special guests to support the campaign, including former Strictly Come Dancing judge Arlene Phillips!

To download a version of the calendar, and for more information, follow Southend Foodbank on social media or visit their website southend.foodbank.org.uk/christmas-2025.

Are You Concerned About Buying Plastic Toys for Your Tots and Teens? Choose Non-Plastic Gifts This Christmas

Christmas gifting for children has changed enormously over the last few decades.

Once upon a time, toys were built from wood, metal, fabric, wool and other natural materials that aged gracefully and could be repaired or passed on. 

Fast-forward to today, and many parents are understandably concerned about the environmental impact of plastic toys, especially those that break easily or fall out of favour long before January.

If you’re hoping to shop more sustainably this season, there’s good news: there are now more non-plastic toy options than ever. 

From handcrafted wooden playsets to metal balance bikes and fabric dolls, you can fill your stockings without filling landfill.

And if you need convincing that plastic toys really do linger far longer than childhood itself, here’s a rather telling story…

The Plastic Toys That Wouldn’t Die

A friend recently shared an extraordinary anecdote from his own family home. While digging over the back garden, soil that hadn’t been disturbed for decades, he unearthed several old toys he’d played with as a child. 

They’d been buried under the earth for years, yet the plastic hadn’t rotted or broken down at all. They looked almost exactly as they had when they’d first been thrown, lost or abandoned there all those years ago.

It’s a vivid reminder that while our children grow up, the toys of their childhood do not. They often outlive the children who once adored them, and sometimes even the houses they were played in.

Why Choose Non-Plastic Toys This Christmas?

1. Better for the Planet

Natural materials such as wood, cotton, wool and metal biodegrade or can be recycled far more easily. Choosing them means reducing the long-term environmental footprint of your festive gifts.

2. Longer-Lasting and Repairable

Wooden and metal toys don’t crack or split as easily as plastic. They can be sanded, tightened, repaired and kept in the family for future generations.

3. Safer for Curious Little Ones

Many parents prefer to avoid plastics that may contain chemicals or additives. Natural materials offer peace of mind for babies and toddlers who love exploring with their mouths.

4. Timeless Charm

There’s something magical about a beautifully made wooden train set or a hand-stitched soft toy. They look lovely under the Christmas tree and often become keepsakes.

5. Support Small Makers and Local Craftspeople

Many non-plastic toys are produced by small UK businesses, woodworkers, crafters and independent shops. Choosing these gifts supports local creativity and craftsmanship.

Ideas for Non-Plastic Toys and Gifts

Wooden building blocks, jigsaw puzzles or construction kits

Perfect for toddlers right through to early teens.

Metal balance bikes, scooters or die-cast vehicles

Tough, practical and often repairable.

Fabric dolls, puppets and soft toys

With the added bonus of machine-washable bodies and clothes.

Natural craft kits

Beeswax modelling sets, wool felting kits, pottery-for-beginners and candle-making sets are hugely popular.

Classic board games made from cardboard and wood

A brilliant way to bring the family together on Christmas night.

Musical instruments

Think wooden percussion kits, recorders, ukuleles and hand drums.

A More Meaningful Christmas Morning

Choosing non-plastic toys doesn’t mean spending more or compromising on fun. In fact, these gifts often spark imagination, last far longer and feel more meaningful, especially when little ones know that Father Christmas has delivered something special they can treasure for years.

With a little mindful shopping, your Christmas can be magical, memorable and more eco-friendly. 

And with any luck, nothing you buy this year will still be lurking in someone’s back garden a generation from now.

Cost-Effective Ways to Stay Warm Over Christmas

Staying warm at Christmastime shouldn’t mean worrying about your energy bills. 

With the winter chill settling in, many households are looking for clever, affordable ways to stay cosy without cranking the heating up. 

Here are some practical, budget-friendly tips to keep your home warm and festive this season.

Layer Up for Seasonal Comfort

Layering is one of the simplest and most effective ways to keep warm. A breathable base layer, a comfy jumper, and a chunky cardigan can work wonders. Don’t forget thick socks, slippers, or even festive fluffy footwear to keep the cold at bay.

Heat the Rooms You Actually Use

There’s no need to heat the entire house if you’re spending most of your time in the lounge or bedroom. Shut doors to trap heat, and consider using an energy-efficient space heater for short bursts in the room you’re in.

Block Draughts and Trap the Warmth

Thermal curtains, draught excluders, and even rolled-up towels at the base of doors can make a surprising difference. Keeping warm air inside is half the battle during the colder months.

Cosy Up Your Bedding

Winter duvets, brushed cotton sheets, and a few extra blankets help create a warm sanctuary at bedtime. Hot water bottles and microwavable heat packs are wonderfully effective, affordable, and comforting.

Keep Moving and Stay Warm Naturally

A bit of festive bustle, wrapping gifts, dancing to Christmas tunes, or a brisk walk to admire the lights, helps boost body heat and keeps you warm without flicking the heating on.

Seasonal Food That Warms You Through

Hearty Christmas favourites such as stews, soups, and slow-cooker meals warm you from the inside out and gently heat your kitchen at the same time. Using slow cookers or air fryers can save energy while still delivering delicious winter comfort.

Use Timers and Lower Settings Wisely

If you do use your central heating, reduce the thermostat by just one degree and rely on timers. Your home stays comfortable, and your bills stay calmer.

Snuggle with Throws and Blankets

A festive throw or fleece blanket can make a cosy night on the sofa even more inviting. It’s one of the easiest ways to feel warmer, perfect for Christmas film nights.

Make the Most of Natural Light

Open your curtains during the day to welcome in whatever winter sunshine appears. Close them as dusk sets in to help retain that warmth.

Fill Your Home with People and Christmas Cheer

A room full of family and friends not only warms the atmosphere emotionally, it literally adds warmth. Christmas gatherings are good for the soul and the thermostat.

With a few simple adjustments, you can enjoy a wonderfully warm and welcoming Christmas without overspending. Embrace the cosy season, stay snug, and let your festive celebrations shine, without the extra cost.

Healthy Snacks to Keep on Hand This Christmas

Christmas is famously filled with mince pies, rich puddings, chocolate tubs and cheeseboards. 

It’s all part of the fun,but it can also leave you feeling a little worn out before Boxing Day even arrives. 

That’s why it’s a brilliant idea to bring in some healthier snacks alongside the traditional festive treats.

Whether you’re hoping to stay balanced through December or simply want lighter options for visiting friends and family, a well-stocked selection of wholesome nibbles will make your festive season feel brighter and more energised.

Why Add Healthy Snacks to Your Christmas Plans?

December is one of the busiest months of the year. There are parties, late nights, Christmas markets, school concerts, shopping trips and plenty of meals out. Having nutritious snacks within reach helps you stay fuelled without relying solely on sugary or heavy foods.

Healthy festive snacks can help you:

Keep energy levels steady throughout the day

Avoid the mid-afternoon slump

Stay satisfied between meals

Offer guests more choice

Start January feeling refreshed rather than overloaded

Festive Healthy Snacks to Stock Up On

1. Spiced Nuts and Seeds

Roasted nuts with warming spices make an ideal festive snack. Almonds, pecans, walnuts and cashews all work beautifully with cinnamon, ginger, chilli or smoked paprika.

Festive ideas:

Cinnamon and honey-roasted almonds

Maple and pecan nut mix

Chilli and smoked paprika cashews

Mixed nuts with added pumpkin seeds for crunch

2. Clementines and Seasonal Fruit

A box of clementines is practically a Christmas tradition. They’re sweet, refreshing and perfect for balancing out heavier festive dishes.

Other great seasonal fruits include:

Pomegranates

Red grapes

Sharon fruit

British apples and pears

Display them in a festive bowl and they’ll double as decoration.

3. Veggie Platters with Christmas Dips

A colourful vegetable platter is surprisingly festive, especially when paired with seasonal dips.

Try serving:

Carrot sticks with hummus

Cucumber and pepper strips with tzatziki

Beetroot houmous for a rich Christmas-red colour

Celery with low-fat soft cheese

These are ideal for pre-dinner nibbles or Christmas Eve grazing.

4. Dark Chocolate Bites

If you love chocolate, dark chocolate is a satisfying option that feels indulgent without being too heavy.

Try:

Dark chocolate-coated almonds

Homemade dark chocolate bark with cranberries and pistachios

Thin dark chocolate discs for portion-friendly snacking

5. Wholegrain Crackers with Lighter Toppings

Crackers are a Christmas essential, but you can lighten things up by choosing wholegrain or oat-based varieties.

Pair them with:

Light cream cheese and herbs

Cottage cheese with cracked pepper

Smoked salmon with a squeeze of lemon

Soft goat’s cheese and apple slices

Perfect for a simple festive lunch.

6. Homemade Popcorn

Popcorn is one of the easiest healthier snacks to make, and you can add festive flavours to match the season.

Seasoning ideas include:

Cinnamon with a pinch of cocoa

Rosemary and sea salt

A light drizzle of maple syrup with mixed nuts

Serve during Christmas film nights or family game evenings.

7. Greek Yoghurt with Winter Toppings

Thick Greek yoghurt makes a brilliant winter snack, especially with warming toppings.

Try adding:

Toasted oats

Walnuts

Cranberries

Honey

Orange zest

It’s comfort food with a healthier twist.

Simple Tips for Balanced Festive Snacking

Keep healthier options visible and easy to reach

Move the tubs of sweets off the coffee table

Make mixed platters so healthier and festive treats sit side by side

Drink plenty of water throughout the day

Enjoy your favourite Christmas foods, just add balance where you can

Healthy snacks won’t take away from the magic of Christmas, they simply give you more choice and help you feel better throughout the season. 

With a few thoughtful additions to your festive food shop, you can enjoy all your favourite treats while keeping your energy and wellbeing in a good place.

That's Food and Drink: Hosting a Medieval Festival at Your Pub or Restaurant

That's Food and Drink: Hosting a Medieval Festival at Your Pub or Restaurant: A feast of food, fun and history for all ages. If you’re looking for a fresh way to boost footfall, bring the community together, and offer ...

Bird Flu. Time to rethink the Christmas centrepiece?

With the current outbreak of Avian influenza (bird flu) sweeping through UK poultry farms, the usual festive hero, the turkey, is under pressure. 

Reports indicate around 5 % of the UK’s Christmas poultry flock has been culled so far this season, and heavier birds (typical for Christmas roasts) are particularly in short supply. 

So, whether you’re planning a traditional roast for family and friends, catering for mixed dietary preferences, or simply fancy something different this year, here are some timely and well-rounded alternatives to the turkey, spanning both meat-based and vegan options.

Why the turkey shortages matter

Farms across Britain are facing multiple outbreaks of bird flu, triggering housing orders and culls. 

Organic and free-range flocks are especially affected (because the birds are more exposed) so the premium turkey market is under particular strain. 

The shortage isn’t guaranteed to cause a full absence of turkey, but availability of larger birds and usual price points may be impacted. 

All of this means: fewer choices, possible higher cost, and a good reason to explore alternatives.

Meat-based alternatives

Here are some great meat-centrepiece options if you still want something festive but want to avoid the turkey scramble:

1. Roast beef or sirloin of beef

Beef offers that “wow” factor for a festive roast. A joint of sirloin or rib is impressive, carves beautifully, and allows for wonderful accompaniments (Yorkshire puddings, horseradish sauce, roasties).

Why choose beef?

Beef is a familiar traditional option and suits the festive feel.

You avoid the turkey supply issues entirely.

Carving is straightforward and it can feed a crowd with less effort.

Tips: Choose a good-quality joint (ideally grass-fed), bring to room temperature before roasting, and plan for ≈ 250-300 g cooked meat per adult guest (plus a little extra for leftovers).

2. Crown of pork or pork-loin roast

A crown of pork (i.e., the loin with ribs, tied, roasted whole) makes for an elegant centrepiece with a golden crackling.

Why choose pork?

It’s festive without being traditional turkey.

It offers flavour and presentation (crackling is always popular).

You might find better availability and perhaps better value than a turkey would fetch this year.

Tips: Score the skin for crackling, ensure the skin is dry and salted ahead of roasting, and pair with sage & onion stuffing or apple sauce for a classic flavour match.

3. Whole goose or duck

If you still want a “whole bird” vibe, consider a goose or a large duck. These options are less routinely chosen than turkey and may avoid the worst supply pressure.

Why choose goose/duck?

They deliver a rich, festive flavour and make a statement.

They’re less common, so supply might be more stable (though check early).

They allow for beautiful presentation and guests will talk about it.

Tips: Fat renders heavily (so ensure you have a strong roasting pan), serve with sweet-and-tart accompaniments (cranberries, orange sauce), and plan side dishes accordingly since these birds have richer meat.

Vegan & plant-based alternatives

If you’d prefer to steer entirely away from meat (or have vegan guests to cater for), here are stellar plant-based centrepieces.

4. Nut roast (but elevated)

A well-crafted nut roast is a classic vegan alternative – but this year, aim to elevate it to seriously festive status.

Why it works:

You can build it with a mix of nuts (walnut, almond, cashew), seeds, mushrooms, herbs and maybe roasted root veg.

It’s hearty and satisfying, especially when paired with rich vegan gravy, cranberries and roasted parsnips.

It aligns well with the “thinking differently” theme this season given turkey supply pressures.

Tips: Bake in a terrine or loaf tin for a firm slice, glaze the top (maple or vegan butter) for shine, and serve with a flavour-packed stuffing inside or on the side.

5. Vegan Wellington (mushroom & lentil centre)

A plant-based Wellington makes a dramatic and truly festive statement.

Why it works:

With a filling of lentils, chestnuts, mushrooms and herbs wrapped in puff pastry (vegan), it’s elegant and indulgent.

It gives vegan and vegetarian guests a centrepiece of equal standing to a roasted bird.

It taps into the “occasion” feel and helps everyone feel included.

Tips: Chill the filling so it holds shape when wrapped; ensure the pastry is crisp and golden; present on a platter with festive garnish (pomegranate seeds, fresh herbs).

6. Roasted vegetable & halloumi or tofu “centre”

For a more casual or modern festive meal, a stacked roast of root vegetables (carrots, parsnips, beetroot), topped with grilled halloumi (or marinated tofu for strict vegan) can function beautifully.

Why it works:

Visually appealing and colourful.

Lighter than heavy roasted meat, which may appeal if you want ease and speed.

Works very well in a one-pan or simpler cooking plan (which aligns with your blog interest in one-pan meal content!).

Tips: Season vegetables well, roast until caramelised, add a drizzle of balsamic or maple glaze at the end, and accompany with a richly flavoured vegan gravy to complete the feel of a festive feast.

Accompaniments & sides (that work for all)

Roast potatoes and parsnips: universally loved and give that classic Christmas feel.

Brussels sprouts: tossed with chestnuts or a little pancetta (or vegan bacon alternative) to suit all diners.

A great gravy covers many sins, whether from meat drippings or a vegan mushroom/soy sauce base, with olive oil.

Cranberry, orange or red-wine based sauces add colour, flavour and festivity.

Don’t forget a good stuffing (you can make meat-free stuffing for all) so no one feels like they’ve compromised.

This Christmas, the turkey shortage caused by bird flu presents a perfect opportunity to freshen up your festive roast tradition. Whether you opt for beef, pork, or a show-stopping vegan Wellington, you’ll create a memorable meal that adapts to current supply pressures and caters for all dietary choices.

Christmas Gift Ideas for the Dungeons & Dragons and Gammer Fan in Your Life

Christmas shopping for a gamer can be surprisingly straightforward, especially if they’re part of the ever-growing world of tabletop role-playing. 

Whether they’re a seasoned Dungeon Master or a brand-new adventurer, gifts inspired by Dungeons & Dragons and similar games are guaranteed to go down a treat.

Here are some brilliant ideas to help you fill their stocking with magic, mystery, and a little bit of dice-rolling joy.

Starter Sets for New Adventurers

If someone you know has been curious about D&D but has never quite taken the plunge, a Starter Set or Essentials Kit is a perfect entry point. 

These boxed sets include simplified rules, ready-made characters, and an introductory adventure – ideal for beginners and families who want to have a go over the Christmas holidays.

You can also explore similar starter kits from games such as Pathfinder, Dragonbane, and Critical Role’s Candela Obscura if they’d like to try something fresh.

Campaign Books and Adventure Modules

For players already deep into their campaigns, a new adventure book is a fantastic gift. From sprawling epics to spooky one-shots, there’s something to suit every group’s style. Newer volumes are always popular, but classic reprints and anniversary editions can add a nostalgic touch that goes down brilliantly with long-term fans.

Dice Sets That Feel Truly Special

Dice are to tabletop gaming what chocolate coins are to Christmas stockings – essential!

You can go simple with polished resin sets or treat them to something luxurious such as:

Metal dice for a satisfyingly weighty roll

Gemstone dice for real “wow” factor

Glow-in-the-dark or UV-infused dice for late-night sessions

Dice advent calendars for a daily December delight

A personalised dice bag or box makes a lovely finishing touch.

Miniatures, Maps, and Terrain

If the gamer in your life loves immersing themselves in the world, miniatures and terrain pieces help bring a campaign to life. Options range from simple plastic minis to hand-painted heroes and 3D-printed monsters.

Even a foldable battle map or some reusable map tiles can make session planning easier for a busy Dungeon Master – and that’s a gift they’ll appreciate long after the decorations come down.

Themed Clothing and Accessories

From cosy hoodies printed with dragon emblems to enamel pins, mugs, posters, and wall art, gamer-themed merchandise is both fun and practical. You can even find classy, subtle designs for those who enjoy D&D but don’t always want to shout about their alignment or armour class at the office Christmas party.

Digital Tools and Subscription Gifts

If they prefer digital play, consider gifting something that supports their online sessions. For example:

Access to digital rulebooks

A subscription to a virtual tabletop

Digital dice sets

Online campaign-tracking tools

Perfect for players who travel, move around at uni, or game with friends across the country.

For the Dungeon Master Who Already Has Everything

Dungeon Masters work hard to keep the story moving – so treat them to something that makes their life easier:

A DM screen with handy rules

A notebook designed for worldbuilding

A pack of NPC cards for spontaneous characters

A portable storage case for minis and dice

High-quality condition rings or combat trackers

Even a themed candle – “Forest Path”, “Enchanted Library”, or “Dragon’s Lair” – can help set the mood during play.

Make It Personal: The Gift of a Custom Adventure

If you want something truly heartfelt, write or commission a short adventure based on an inside joke, a favourite memory, or one of their hobbies. Pop it in a festive gift box with some dice and a handwritten note, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind present they’ll remember for years.

Whether you’re buying for a newbie, a dungeon-delving veteran, or someone who simply loves fantasy worlds, Dungeons & Dragons gifts bring imagination, camaraderie, and fun straight to the table. This Christmas, let the gamers in your life unwrap something magical – and maybe join them for a session or two.

After all, there’s nothing like a cosy winter’s evening spent rolling dice, telling stories, and saving the world one encounter at a time.

There could well be a gamer shop not far from you. Just Google "Gamer shops near me" to find out.

How Small Businesses Can Make the Most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday This Christmas

Black Friday and Cyber Monday aren’t just brilliant opportunities for shoppers, they’re also powerful tools for small businesses gearing up for the festive season. 

Many independent shops, artists, makers, food producers, and service providers use these two peak shopping moments to boost visibility, attract new customers, and increase sales ahead of Christmas.

If you run a small business yourself, or you know someone who does, this year is an ideal time to join in. Whether you offer handmade gifts, festive food, consultancy services, Christmas hampers, or local experiences, you can create simple, effective promotions that help your brand shine in the busy run-up to December.

To help small businesses get started, our sister site That’s Business has put together a clear and practical guide explaining exactly how SMEs and micro-businesses can use Black Friday and Cyber Monday to their advantage. It covers everything from customer loyalty and digital visibility to creative seasonal bundles and ways to boost cash flow.

Read the full guide here on That’s Business:

Why SMEs and Micro-Businesses Should Make the Most of Black Friday and Cyber Monday

https://thats-business.blogspot.com/2025/11/why-smes-and-micro-businesses-should.html

Supporting small businesses at Christmastime is one of the best ways to spread festive cheer—so whether you’re shopping or selling, let’s make the most of it together.

Walking for Wellness This Christmas: A Simple Way to Boost Your Health and Lift Your Spirits

Christmas is a joyful time of year, but it can also be busy, tiring, and a little overwhelming. 

Between late-night shopping, social events, family gatherings and rich festive foods, it’s easy to forget to look after our own wellbeing.

One of the simplest ways to stay healthy during the festive season is also one of the most enjoyable: walking. 

Whether you’re strolling through a frosty village lane, wandering around your local Christmas markets, or hopping onto your home treadmill when the weather turns icy, walking is a brilliant way to support both physical and mental health.

Pair it with balanced, seasonal eating, and you’ve got a wellness routine that fits beautifully into a festive lifestyle.

Why Walking Works Wonders at Christmastime

It supports heart health

With heavier meals and more frequent treats, December can be demanding on the body. A brisk walk helps improve circulation, increase heart rate, and keep your cardiovascular system happy.

It helps balance festive indulgence

Christmas pudding, mince pies, and cheeseboards are part of the fun — and walking helps keep weight steady without needing intense workouts.

It boosts energy during darker days

Short daylight hours can make us feel sluggish. A walk outdoors (or on your treadmill while listening to carols!) helps increase oxygen flow and lifts your energy naturally.

It reduces festive stress

Walking lowers stress hormones and increases endorphins. It’s a perfect escape from crowded shops, noisy relatives, or pre-Christmas deadlines.

It lifts mood through winter

Many people feel dips in mood during the darker months. Walking — especially among twinkling Christmas lights or crisp countryside air — can help reduce anxiety and improve emotional wellbeing.

Using a Home Treadmill Over the Winter Months

Bad weather, icy pavements, and short days often reduce how much we walk. A home treadmill keeps your routine going without stepping into the cold.

Why it’s perfect during December:

You can walk while watching festive films.

No slipping on frosty pavements.

Ideal for short, calming sessions between busy seasonal tasks.

Great for starting or ending the day with a healthy ritual.

If you’re new to treadmills, start slow and steady — 10–15 minutes a day builds the habit without pressure.

Healthy Eating That Fits the Festive Theme

Your body will thank you for small, mindful choices that pair beautifully with walking:

Add extra winter veg: carrots, parsnips, leeks and cabbage.

Keep balanced snacks on hand: fruit, nuts, yoghurt, or oatcakes.

Drink enough water — central heating can be dehydrating.

Enjoy treats guilt-free, but add lighter meals between big festive feasts.

Healthy eating doesn’t have to reduce festive enjoyment — it simply helps you feel at your best throughout the season.

Simple Ways to Add More Walking to Your Christmas Routine

Explore local Christmas lights on foot.

Wrap up warm and enjoy a countryside stroll with your partner or family.

Take a walk after your Christmas dinner — a lovely tradition to start.

Add short walks between festive tasks: gift wrapping, baking, decorating.

Use your treadmill for cosy indoor sessions on rainy or snowy days.

Small steps make a big difference, especially during the festive season.

Walking is one of the easiest and most joyful ways to look after yourself during Christmas. It supports your heart, boosts your mood, helps with sleep, balances indulgent foods, and brings a sense of calm amidst the festive bustle.

With a home treadmill and a little healthy eating, you can feel energised, grounded, and ready to enjoy every moment of the holiday season. My wife gave ourselves an early present of a Reebok treadmill several weeks ago and we have already noticed a difference in our health levels.

Here's what we said about them last month "Why Everyone Should Own a Reebok GT40 S Treadmill This Christmas" https://thatschristmas.blogspot.com/2025/10/why-everyone-should-own-reebok-gt40-s.html