Bring Back The Holly And Mistletoe: A Tradition Worth Reviving

The Origins of Holly and Mistletoe

The use of holly and mistletoe during the holiday season dates back to ancient times. The ancient Druids believed that mistletoe had magical properties and used it in their winter solstice celebrations. The Romans also used holly as a symbol of their winter solstice festival, Saturnalia.

Why We Should Revive the Tradition

As we become more modernized and technology-driven, we tend to forget the importance of tradition and history. The use of holly and mistletoe during the holiday season is a tradition that has been passed down for centuries and is worth reviving. The symbolism behind these plants is significant and should not be lost in our fast-paced world.

The Symbolism of Holly and Mistletoe

Holly is often associated with Christmas due to its bright red berries and green leaves. The prickly leaves of holly are said to represent the crown of thorns worn by Jesus, and the red berries symbolize his blood. Mistletoe, on the other hand, is a symbol of love and friendship. In Norse mythology, mistletoe was associated with the goddess of love, Frigg, and kissing under the mistletoe was believed to bring good luck.

Bringing Nature into Our Homes

Using holly and mistletoe during the holiday season also helps to bring nature into our homes during a time when we are often trapped indoors due to the cold weather. The green leaves and red berries of holly add a pop of color to our homes, while mistletoe can be used as a decorative accent to hang above doorways or in windows.

How to Incorporate Holly and Mistletoe into Your Holiday Decor

There are many ways to incorporate holly and mistletoe into your holiday decor. You can create a wreath using holly leaves and berries or use them as a centerpiece on your dining table. Mistletoe can be hung above doorways or in windows, and you can even use it to decorate your Christmas tree.

Where to Find Holly and Mistletoe

If you don’t have access to holly and mistletoe in your backyard, you can usually find them at your local florist or nursery. You can also purchase artificial holly and mistletoe if you prefer not to use real plants.

The Benefits of Using Real Plants

While artificial holly and mistletoe may be more convenient, there are many benefits to using real plants. Real plants help to purify the air in your home and can help to reduce stress and improve your mood. Plus, the scent of fresh holly and mistletoe can add a natural fragrance to your home.

Other Uses for Holly and Mistletoe

Holly and mistletoe are not only used for holiday decorations but also have medicinal properties. Holly leaves have been used to treat fevers and coughs, while mistletoe has been used to treat high blood pressure and cancer. However, it is important to consult with a medical professional before using these plants for medicinal purposes.

The Importance of Tradition

The use of holly and mistletoe during the holiday season is a tradition that has been passed down for centuries. By incorporating these plants into our holiday decor, we are not only honoring the past but also creating new memories for future generations. Tradition helps to connect us to our history and reminds us of the importance of family, friends, and community.

In Conclusion

The use of holly and mistletoe during the holiday season is a tradition worth reviving. By incorporating these plants into our holiday decor, we are not only honoring the past but also bringing nature into our homes and creating new memories for future generations. Let’s not forget the symbolism behind these plants and the importance of tradition in our fast-paced world.