20/11/2025
So many of us feel the weight of Christmas creeping in, the pressure to buy, to match, to “keep up”, even when it doesn’t sit well with our hearts or our finances.
Recently, Martin Lewis spoke about how Christmas has drifted from a season of joy into a ritual of obligation. His words struck a chord: when gift-giving becomes a cycle of expectation, it can leave people anxious, overstretched, and far from the real spirit of the season.
We’ve felt this too. A few years ago, we stepped back from the cycle of buying things for the sake of it, and instead leaned into what truly matters to us: connection, simplicity, presence, and community. Not as a judgement on anyone else’s traditions simply as a kinder way of living for ourselves and our planet.
This is why we’re opening our home again this year for Presence over Presents: a cosy, mindful Christmas Day gathering for anyone who wants to celebrate Christmas Day differently. For those who would otherwise be on their own - or who want to step away from the usual trappings of Christmas. No pressure, no gifts, no commercial noise. Just food, company, music, creativity, and the warmth of being together.
If you’re longing for a gentler Christmas too, one that nourishes rather than depletes, you’re very welcome to join us.
Presence over Presents: Christmas Day Gathering
Thursday 25th December · From 12:30pm · Winscombe
https://www.muditasalus.co.uk/presence-over-presents
Mudita means “joy in the well-being of others”, so if this post could bring a little joy or support to someone you know, please share it.