If you’re looking for the ways to make your Christmas more sustainable this year, do check out our previous articles on enjoying plant-based food during the holidays and being more mindful about the presents. Here are a few more ideas on making your Christmas celebration kind and thoughtful.
Get creative and dive into DIY
It’s hard to overestimate the feeling you get when you receive a present that’s been made just for you by your favorite person (and the pleasure of giving such presents!). DIY may seem threatening but you don’t really need any special skills to create something as long as you have your imagination (and the Internet for ideas). You can bake cookies, make unique ornaments (dried oranges and apples are my favorite), knit socks if you know how, or even make a candle if you have the supplies. Just see what you like and I’m pretty sure you’ll manage to make a gift you’ll be proud to give. And by the way, getting creative while listening to Christmas songs and sipping mulled wine feels pretty great.
Experiment with wrapping
Reusing old wrapping paper is always an excellent idea, so as using whatever you have on hand instead of buying new. But how about getting a bit more creative? This year I’ve ditched the wrapping paper and started giving my presents in the beautiful yet practical tote bags. Honestly, it’s been the best shift! A tote bag is like an extra gift useful for any person whether they’re into sustainability or not. Who knows, maybe they’ll love the tote bag so much that they’ll carry it everywhere and reuse in the future instead of throwing away.
Practice kindness
While we shouldn’t need a reason to take care of ourselves and of others, holidays may be a good time to revisit this simple habit. Cooking a heartwarming meal for your loved one, taking yourself out on a date, making a small donation to your local charity – these are great ways to truly feel the holiday spirit and practice kindness in the most hectic time of the year.