First Week of Advent: A Holly Jolly Start to A Supple Advent Journey

Welcome to the first Sunday in Advent, a season of warmth, reflection, and the preparation of our hearts and homes. This Advent, we begin our journey not only to bring light into our living spaces but also into ourselves—preparing inwardly as the year draws to a close. This blog post is about making space for meaningful connection and renewal through song, embodying the spirit of Supple Advent Sundays.

This week, let’s explore two beloved carols that bring out the essence of preparation in two unique ways—The Holly and the Ivy and Have a Holly Jolly Christmas. The Holly and the Ivy is filled with symbolism, drawing from the enduring beauty of nature. The evergreen leaves remind us of resilience—life that flourishes even in the stillness of winter. On the other hand, Have a Holly Jolly Christmas encourages us to embrace outward joy and connection, inviting us to share festive warmth with others.

These two songs capture the duality of our journey: inward preparation, stillness, and reflection, as well as outward celebration, connection, and joy.

To honor the diversity of the spiritual journey, you’ll find both traditional and more inclusive versions of the carol texts. Whether you cherish the original lyrics or resonate more with the universal message, these songs and this practice are for all of us, no matter our faith background.

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Exercises for Supple Singing:

1. Two-Fold M Exercise: Inspired by the evergreen spirit of The Holly and the Ivy, this exercise helps open your heart and create a warm space within. Sit comfortably, soften your gaze, and fill your mind with an image of warmth and love in your home. Move between two gentle tones using the 'M' sound, allowing your voice to rock gently back and forth. This practice invites a sense of calmness and readiness.

2. BamBö Exercise: Adding a playful energy, the BamBö exercise helps us connect with our breath, grounding us while embracing openness. As we prepare for Have a Holly Jolly Christmas, this rhythmic practice encourages joyful, grounded singing, and a feeling of being rooted in ourselves while sharing light outwardly.

Watch and Engage with these Exercises in the video below.

Two Singing Exercises for Week One of A Supple Advent Sundays

In this video, I introduce two singing exercises to begin our Supple Advent journey: "Two-Fold M" and "BamBö." The "Two-Fold M" exercise gently guides us into a state of relaxation, embodying warmth and flow with rocking movements. The "BamBö" exercise is more playful, helping us ground ourselves with breath and belly movement. I’ll guide you step-by-step to find a balanced posture, listen mindfully, and connect deeply with your inner voice. Let’s explore together, heart-to-heart, and bring our voices to life this season.

Applying the exercises to Sing Along with The Holly and the Ivy & Holly Jolly Christmas

In this video, we’re bringing the "Two-Fold M" and "BamBö" exercises into our singing practice with two beloved carols: The Holly and the Ivy and Holly Jolly Christmas. We’ll focus on a gentle, grounded approach, letting the high notes come naturally and moving with a sense of levity. Singing isn’t about perfection—it’s about connection and fun. Let’s explore together, using breath, playful belly tugs, and mindful listening to create warmth and joy in our voices this holiday season.

Sing Along and Reflect

Once you’ve warmed up with the exercises, sing along.
I’m excited to share two versions of "The Holly and the Ivy" and "Have a Holly Jolly Christmas."

Note on Lyrics:

I understand that for many, the traditional carol lyrics hold deep significance, especially around celebrating Christ. This season, my goal is to honor everyone's unique spiritual journey.
By offering both traditional and universal versions, I hope to ensure no one feels left out—whether you find meaning in the traditional words or connect with a broader, universal spirit of love and warmth.

The Holly and the Ivy
(A New, Universal Text)

The beautiful imagery of the holly and ivy symbolizes resilience, hope, and companionship that transcends faith traditions. Whether you celebrate Christmas, another tradition, or simply honor this time of year, these verses speak to our shared human experience of finding warmth and light during the darkest days.

The Holly and the Ivy
Piano by: Hymnsmadefresh.com
Music: An English Traditional Carol
New Lyrics by: Shannon Boyce

Verse1
The holly and the ivy,
When winter winds do blow,
Of all the trees within the woods,
The holly stands aglow.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Verse 2
The holly bears a blossom,
As white as purest snow,
A symbol of the peace we seek,
And kindness we bestow.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Verse 3
The holly bears a berry,
As bright as any flame,
And within each one of us,
A spark to do the same.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Verse 4
The holly bears a prickle,
As sharp as any thorn,
A reminder of the trials we face,
And the hope that keeps us warm.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Verse 5
The holly bears a bark,
That stands through winter's cold,
Just as our bonds grow deep and true,
Through challenges untold.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Verse 6
The holly and the ivy,
Now both are green and bright,
They stand as symbols of our hearts,
That shine through darkest night.

Oh, the rising of the sun,
And the running of the deer,
The warmth around the hearth,
Sweet singing fills the air.

Have a Holly Jolly Season
(A New, Inclusive Text)

Bringing warmth, kindness, and joy to the holiday season, this adapted version of Have a Holly Jolly Christmas invites us to connect and celebrate with everyone, regardless of our backgrounds.

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas (Season)
Original song by Johnny Marks
New Lyrics by: Shannon Boyce
Piano by Juliet Forrester.
Juliet Forrester: https://www.JulietForresterMusic.com
Karaoke Keys: https://www.KaraokeKeys.com

Have a Holly Jolly Season,
It's the time to share good cheer.
Whether skies are bright or grey,
be kind to those you're near.

Have a Holly Jolly Season,
Say hello to those you meet.
Share a little warmth and care,
Make this season sweet.

Oh, ho, the candles shine,
Bright for all to see,
May your heart find comfort here,
In love and harmony.

Have a Holly Jolly Season,
And let your joy appear.
Oh, by golly,
Have a holly jolly season this year.

Oh, ho, the candles shine,
Bright for all to see,
May your heart find comfort here,
To Last throughout the year.

Have a Holly Jolly Season,
And let your joy appear.
Oh, by golly,
Have a holly jolly season this year.

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The Holly and the Ivy - Traditional Text

The Holly and the Ivy (piano Instrumental with lyrics)
English traditional Christmas carol
Copyright: Public domain

Verse 1
The holly and the ivy
when they are both full grown
of all the trees that are in the wood
the holly bears the crown
(refrain)
The rising of the sun
and the running of the deer
the playing of the merry organ sweet singing in the choir
Verse 2
The holly bears a blossom
as white as lily flower
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to be our sweet Saviour

Verse 3
The holly bears a berry
as red as any blood
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
to do poor sinners good
Verse 4
The holly bears a prickle
as sharp as any thorn
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ
on Christmas day in the morn
Verse 5
The holly bears a bark
as bitter as any gall
and Mary bore sweet Jesus Christ for to redeem us all

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas - Traditional Text

Have a Holly Jolly Christmas
Piano by Juliet Forrester.

Have a holly jolly Christmas.
It's the best time of the year.
I don't know if there'll be snow,
But have a cup of cheer.

Have a holly, jolly Christmas.
And when you walk down the street.
Say hello to friends you know
And everyone you meet

Oh, ho, the mistletoe
Hung where you can see.
Somebody waits for you,
Kiss her once for me.

Have a holly jolly Christmas.
And in case you didn't hear.
Oh, by golly,
Have a holly jolly Christmas this year.

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Reflecting Together

As we prepare during this Advent, let’s focus not on perfection but on creating spaces of warmth, openness, comfort, and connection—both for ourselves and others.

I'd love for us to share our journeys:

• How are you preparing your heart and home this season?

• Does singing The Holly and the Ivy help you connect to inner peace and resilience?

• How does singing Have a Holly Jolly Christmas make you feel about connecting with your community?

Feel free to comment below and share your thoughts, or message me by clicking here. Your journey matters to me, and I’m here to support you. Make sure to check back each week for new Supple Advent Sunday reflections, carols, and exercises as we sing our way into the light of the New Year.

With warmth and evergreen joy,
Shannon

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Bonus Videos
Enjoy these versions of the two songs with the original texts.

Kings College Choir singing The Holly and the Ivy arranged by Walford Davies. Recorded December 24, 2008

Michael Bublé - Holly Jolly Christmas sung by Michael Bublé

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