Healthy Holidays and Gifting

Well – it can be. Science shows really can make us feel happier or better connected to others – but only when you engage with the gifting: focus on being intentional and enjoy it. If you are rushed and stressing, you lose some of that joy and benefit.

The value of the gift is quite literally depends on who it is being gifted to. How important is it to you – or the receiver – that it is local or sustainable or branded? Going over budget is likely just adding to stress and taking away from joy.

Here are four thoughts to reduce the stress:

1. Don’t believe me on how even the best and well-intentioned gift can fail? Read O. Henry’s short story “The Gift of the Maji.” It is only a 15 minute read, on average. You can find free versions online.

2. For some people in your life, a simple, thoughtful card or holiday message can be an amazing gift (I cannot say this enough as a doctor – and I’m sure vets and dentists likewise would agree – sincere thank you cards this time of year warm our hearts. The box of chocolates not needed at all!)

3. Your time is valuable. Very valuable. So gift it. Giving the gift of promising your time is so under-rated: a card promising an hour of your time to teach a skill or to mind a child or assist with that household job?

4. I have people in my life I do want to give small gifts to. If you are trying to avoid importing goods (#Holyhead) or busy shopping centres or gifting yet more alcohol, here are 3 local shops that I have used recently to keep a gift under €20 and local to me County Meath Chamber :**I need to emphasize here that this is NOT an ad and I am in no way sponsored**

@chezemilyofficial – locally roasted coffee, unique chocolates

@antoniasbookstore – is the only independent bookstore that I am aware of currently stocking my friend’s new book: “The Heart Book” (though if you know another one, pop it in the comments!)