Merry midwinter : how to rediscover the magic of the Christmas season

'Lots of ideas for making gifts and decorations but not spending tons of money buying them' Jenni MurrayCelebrating midwinter is not about what you buy or how much you spend – it's about your attitude to life.

Turn away from the frenetic consumerism of Christmas and rediscover the authentic and meaningful realities of this, the oldest and most precious celebration of the year. The true significance of midwinter is not found in any individual spiritual or religious belief or practice.

Instead, the winter solstice provides an opportunity to celebrate what we as humans share; to set aside our differences and come together with a sense of community and cheer. Merry Midwinter is a cornucopia of ideas for how to make your own decorations (kissing boughs, advent wreaths, crackers, stockings and more); your own alternative gifts which cost nothing except your time and thought; your own entertainments and games; and simple, seasonal recipes from years gone by.