A five-day festival is just around the corner. But the anticipation of German families celebrating Christmas should be tempered. At least, that's the advice of the Hamburg-based BAT Leisure Research Institute. It warns against excessive displays of family spirit, which often take on obsessive characteristics.

According to BAT leisure researchers, there is a risk that the upcoming marathon Christmas season will take on an excessively catch-up character, intended to compensate for all the missed opportunities of the past few weeks. This applies particularly to family gatherings and visits to relatives, which are expected to be "made up for" during the five days off. A representative survey conducted by the BAT Leisure Research Institute among 2,000 people over the age of 14 reveals that every second respondent (54% of respondents) openly admits that these gatherings arise more from a sense of obligation and often occur "under pressure." This type of family leisure activity is seen as a waste of time, especially by working people: 62 percent of working professionals perceive the obligatory family gatherings and visits to relatives as a personal burden.

Professor Dr. Opaschowski, the scientific director of the BAT Leisure Research Institute, recommends the following solution: „Think together and calmly about routine family visits and festive rituals. Also, plan time for spontaneity. Approach Christmas Eve in a stress-free manner. Don't let yourself get caught up in the general Christmas rush. Don't turn wish lists into stressful races. Gently ease into the festive season – start celebrating Christmas today! And: Accept it if family members want to disconnect and be alone for a few hours during the holidays. Those who don't allow others peace and quiet won't find peace themselves.“