If you’re of the opinion that everything looks better with a string of tinsel, we’ve got some festive news that will have you singing fa la la la laaa (la la, la, la) for the rest of the day.

Although we’ve previously been warned of the negative effects of playing repetitive Christmas jingles too early, according to an expert these rules don’t apply when it comes to decorations.

In fact, psychoanalyst Steve McKeown believes that adding a seasonal touch to your home could be beneficial to your mental health.

Speaking to unilad.co.uk, McKeown explains that because of all the traditions we take part in around Christmas, this time sits out from the rest of the year in our memory. Meaning that when we see those shiny baubles, or red and green colour schemes, it evokes strong childhood memories. So far, so obvious you might think, but he goes on to explain what effect positive childhood memories have on us.

He says: “In a world full of stress and anxiety, people like to associate to things that make them happy […] Decorations are simply an anchor or pathway to those old childhood magical emotions of excitement. So putting up those Christmas decorations early extends the excitement!”

Although traditionally Christmas trees and the like are put up at the beginning of the advent period, if you’re one of the people who can never wait to get started, now there’s no reason to hold back on the seasonal cheer.

And if you’re getting bored of the same old tinsel, why don’t you give one of our alternative Christmas decoration ideas a try?

Avocado baubles

Avo fans, you can now incorporate it into your Christmas celebrations.

Stationery brand Paperchase has released its festive range for 2017, and this year, you can indulge in avocado tree decorations (as well as a croissant, unicorns and pineapples). This millennial-friendly bauble is priced £5.25 and is a surefire way to spice up your Christmas tree. 

Pineapple centrepieces 

Now, this tropical fruit may not be the most obvious symbol of Christmas, but according to Pinterest (which says searches for them in a festive capacity have spiked) we’re all crazy for them. The in-vogue way of decorating your home for December with a pineapple is to use the leaves as holders for mini baubles, and of course, decorate your fruit however you like – perhaps with sunglasses, say.

These can be used as a replacement for a Christmas tree, or an alternative table centrepiece.

Gin everything

It’s no secret that Christmas is a time for merriment in all senses of the word, a feeling which is no better conveyed in the amount of gin-filled Christmas decorations that are currently on the market. 

Add a festive (and fun) touch to your home with gin baubles, such as these mini bottles from Sipsmith (£25), The Lakes Distillery set of six (£35) or even crackers filled with mother’s ruin, courtesy of Gin Tales (£49.50).

Washi tape Christmas tree

We must admit, unless you’ve actually seen a washi tape tree for yourself, the idea can sound a little uninspiring. But trust us when we say that nothing could be further from the truth: not only is it easy to recreate and inexpensive, there are some really cool washi designs online.

Simply grab yourself some of the coloured tape from a craft store or Paperchase and plan out the design of your tree on your wall. You can stick real baubles to it, tape on some fairy lights if you like, and still plonk plenty of presents below it – there’s nothing holding you back. 

There’s no way we’re waiting for 12 December now…

Images: Pinterest / Sipsmith / The Lakes Distillery / Michael Mroczek