As the old song goes, ’It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas…’ and everywhere you go it probably feels like you’re surrounded by festive franticness – which will only increase for the next few weeks. Well, this is our Christmas issue, and so you may not be surprised to read that we’re going to be thinking about the C-word quite a bit here, too – though hopefully in a more useful, helpful, and calming way than you’re used to. So, instead of Sophie Ellis-Bextor torching Christmas cards on the new M&S advert, and the constant barrage of perfection you’re probably being pedalled on your socials, we’re looking at Christmas from all angles. Our dossier this month is a lovely reflection on how to move it away from the perfection-seeking stress-fest we’re increasingly being pushed towards, and how to create a mindful, joyful celebration that suits your values and what really matters to you (page 37). We’re also looking at how to inject a few simple little Christmassy acts into your day to help you embrace calm (page 30), and examining why the traditional rituals we enjoy at this time of year give us that warm glow of nostalgia – and why that’s so good for both our hearts and minds (page 22).