I love giving gifts, but sometimes, when trying to find the perfect gift, gift-giving becomes a chore instead of something we can—and should—enjoy.
For the past few years, I've been trying to give better gifts—gifts that the recipient will like, of course, but also ones that are useful and made with love. I often buy gifts in stores—I like to look for useful, handmade, fair trade, and environmentally friendly items. Other times, I make the gifts myself.
It may seem that this is even more difficult than going to the store and buying the first thing you see, but don't be fooled, it's simpler than it seems, and you and your friends will enjoy it much more.
DIY: If you're good at making something, why not give it to your loved ones? The gifts I loved most when my children were born were sweaters and booties knitted by my friends' mothers, but if knitting isn't your thing—and believe me, it's not mine either—don't worry. If you're good at cooking or baking, you could give them some cookies or your signature dish to freeze and enjoy on a day when your friends are feeling overwhelmed. A jar of homemade sauerkraut, or olives, or their favorite cake... so many possibilities come to mind... Can you imagine a better gift than homemade food made with love? I can't.
Time: In these times, spending time with loved ones is a gift—and a luxury. This year my sister gave me a Christmas present I'll never forget—tickets to a concert with her and her daughters. Wonderful.
Services: If you have family and friends with children, you can offer them a morning, afternoon, or evening of babysitting so they can go do something on their own. If you're very organized, you can offer to help your friends tidy a room in their house; if you have style, you can help your brother update his wardrobe. You see what I mean, right? Use your talents and share them with your loved ones.
Art, Leisure & Culture: If you have children or art lovers among your family, you can make them supporters of a museum they enjoy. Friends of museums receive free admission to the museum for a specified period, exclusive access to exhibitions and events, and other benefits.
The classic gift basket, but with a healthy twist : For those who are health-conscious—or want to start—I think a basket of natural foods is a wonderful gift to encourage them to experiment in the kitchen. If you pair it with a healthy cooking course like those from Cocinando el Cambio or the BeingBiotiful meal plan, it can be even better. In the basket, I would include enough ingredients to make one or two simple, natural meals, for example: rolled oats, plant-based milk, cocoa powder, maple syrup, and several glass jars for making porridge in the refrigerator. Or a collection of superfoods, like those from Salud Viva , to add to breakfast smoothies or salads.
Natural cosmetics: Cosmetic gifts are practically king this holiday season. It's a gift I love to give and receive, especially when they're simple and natural products, like those from Esencia Verde . A trio with facial cleanser , serum , and argan oil seems ideal for both men and women. The Weleda anti-cellulite kit —which comes in a beautiful box—also strikes me as a timeless gift.
Books: And for those occasions—and I truly hope they're few and far between—I think a book is undoubtedly one of the best gifts. From best- selling novels, biographies, or memoirs of interesting people, to books adapted for the big screen, a book is always a good gift.
I hope this list helps you give more heartfelt gifts, and that you feel less pressured each time. Giving gifts is something special for me, and although I still sometimes feel that pressure to find the perfect gift, I increasingly understand that an expression of affection and appreciation is much more important than a material present.
I hope you have a wonderful holiday filled with family, friends, and lots of love.