by Amanda Stemen

Gift giving during the holiday season can bring up a lot of stuff. Pressure to find the perfect gift, stress over finances, guilt over not wanting what you received, and of course, the actual physical objects. In addition to the mental clutter, environmental clutter significantly increases during the holiday season, with one-third of people who receive an unwanted gift tossing it into the garbage.[1]

However, becoming a more mindful and sustainable gift giver creates a more fulfilling holiday season for all, including our planet.

To become a more mindful gift giver, start with the internal. Pay attention to how gift giving makes you feel in your body. Do you feel joy, peace, or excitement? If so, keep it up! However, if giving makes you feel anxious, angry, or sad, it’s time to reflect on why that is, and ask yourself a couple of questions:

• Are you giving out of obligation rather than genuine desire?
• Are you stuck in a pattern of mindless consumerism that doesn’t align with your values?

This clarity will help you make more intentional, aligned decisions moving forward.

If you find yourself overwhelmed by obligation or the commercialism of the holidays, change things up. Share with your loved ones (or coworkers) that you prefer a more thoughtful, low-stress approach to celebrating. Ninety percent of people wish the holiday season was less commercialized[2], so you probably aren’t alone in wanting a more meaningful experience. Discussing your preferences might help the entire group create new traditions that are more fulfilling (and less wasteful) for everyone.

Mindful gift giving is also about paying attention to the unique needs and desires of others. You can offer more than just material objects by paying attention.

• What’s their love language? (Acts of service, quality time, or words of affirmation)
• What hobbies or interests do they have?
• How can you improve their quality of life?

You don’t have to spend a lot of money or contribute to landfill waste to give something meaningful. Here are some ideas for creative, low-cost gifts:

• Offer your time with a handwritten coupon book (like we used to make as kids).
• Check out second-hand stores for unique items that are high in quality but budget friendly.
• Cook a meal, bake some treats, or make something special using supplies you already have.
• If you’re stuck, consider giving an IOU for an experience or service (like a movie night, a day of hiking, or a home-cooked meal).

Creative, sustainable gifts often hold more meaning than material items, and they help reduce waste in the process. Gift giving that benefits giver, receiver, and the planet is about thoughtfulness rather than simply presenting any old object.

[1] A third of people tossed unwanted holiday presents in the garbage | YouGov

[2] Stats and Facts

Amanda Stemen’s life has always revolved around nature. Currently she works as a licensed eco-therapist (nature-based mental health therapist), as well as volunteers with the Central Group as Chair of its Parks Committee.