How many times have you given or received a gift that goes straight into a closet to join all the other ones you won’t use or need?

I don’t know about you, but this fills me with guilt! There are so many people in the world that are without resource and it feels very unbalanced to me when I have much more than I need of something.

I am also acutely aware of the clutter build up this can cause when I gift to others who may already be struggling with space and storage. This is where mindful gift giving comes in.

Anyone else used to collect hotel toiletries like there was an apocalypse on the horizon?

I really want to start the conversation around bringing thought and care to what we are giving, to the person we are giving to, and to the act of giving itself. When it comes to holiday gifting, this might look like shopping locally or it could mean gifting a virtual service. It could look like gifting financially or it could mean offering our love, attentiveness, or service.

Consumables over Expendables

With Christmas fast approaching, we have the perfect opportunity to put this practice of mindful giving into action.

So instead of bombarding people with those buy 2 get the 3rd free bubble bath sets, how about gifts that family and friends will truly appreciate and remember and will spark joy. Ideas include organizing a organizing a get together at your place with a fun home-made three course dinner and craft cocktails, taking your loved ones out for the day to experience something (from spa’s to rally racing) you could get unique bottles of booze from designated wineries or distilleries along with some edible delights to pair.

Every time you spend money, you’re casting a vote for the kind of world you want. -Anna Lappe-