Mindful gifting
I think we can all say without a doubt that Amazon has taken over the shopping world for us all. A friend told me how they ordered a book 6 pm on Monday evening and a knock at the door the next morning delivered that book, who could have ever imagined this service in the past. However, is this the right way to shop? How does it affect our local communities? What will happen in the future? I think we all know the answer to these questions. Two-thirds of us find Christmas stressful. The charity Mind recently reported that 11% of people feel unable to cope with all the extra pressure. I am determined this year to do something different. Local mindful shopping.
I would invite you to take some time to think about what you are going to buy. What do you know about the person, how are they currently feeling? What would light up their face? Then about the business, would you be sad if they closed? Are you supporting a team of local workers? Would they be grateful for your purchase? Will it make a difference to them, light up their face? I think if we all shop locally we can keep our local communities together and really make a difference. Lots of the local shops have set up online services and may even deliver to your door! Gifting can also suit every situation we might find ourselves in at the moment. You could give gifts that cost nothing or very little such as your time, making presents or searching in charity shops. These can also have a powerful effect on how you feel and the receiver. I hope since March I have been able to share my thoughts and feelings with you all and that it has given you inspiration and support during what has been a challenging year for us all. As we enter a different festive season, I would invite you to slow down and really consider how your gifting can affect not only you, the receiver but also the community.
