Millions of us are trying to live more eco-friendly lifestyles. And, rightfully so! There has been a rise in companies that are looking at better ways to make their products so that they don’t have much of an impact on the environment, and/or they are fairer for the people who are in the manufacturing processes. The thing is there are a lot of holidays that we end up buying gifts for, and sometimes they aren’t as thoughtful as we might like them to be.
Sometimes though, you might want to give something – just because. They might be having a hard time lately or struggling with life. Or perhaps you want to introduce them to new products that you have been really loving lately.
The most thoughtful gifts don’t tend to be the ones that you can put a monetary value on – because they come from a thoughtful place. So, if you know someone who needs a little box of handcrafted goods, and thoughtful touches here is a list for you:
You + Them Time
It is so hard to find space to relax. We are glued to our computers and phones all the time. Sometimes it is for work, and other times it is because we don’t feel we have the energy to do anything else. So, create a coupon for some one-on-one walking time and unplugged from technology time.
And have only one rule – no phones to be taken on the walk. Of course, you are going to want to choose somewhere that isn’t dangerous to walk, and pretty close to civilization too – just in case! Or if you can’t be parted from your phone, then put them on silent and put them in your backpack and promise that you won’t take them out until the end of the walk.
Plants
We should all have more plants in our lives. You might have a really green-fingered friend in which case they will probably be okay with having some seeds and growing something from scratch, if not then think about the space they have and if they might prefer something that can go outside.
If you want to get a plant that is already pretty established, you should think about maybe buying some fruits or vegetable plants. They are the gift that keeps on giving long after the moment of handover has passed.
Starter Kit
If your friend is making strides in being zero waste, you can buy a zero-waste starter kit, or create your own for them. Here are some things you can add to the starter kit:
- Straws & cutlery – usually bamboo is a great option
- Beeswax wraps – used instead of plastic wrap and foils
- Cotton napkins and tissues
- Food containers – to help them cut down on food waste
- Coffee flask – so they no longer have to buy coffee on the go
- Water bottle – a high-quality water bottle, so they won’t need to buy water on the go either
Sponsoring
If they are an animal lover, then you might like to think about sponsoring an animal for them. Often local zoos and farms will have the option to support their animals. But if that isn’t what they care about, then you might consider sponsoring a family or some education for a child in another country. Put the sponsorship for the year so that feel-good feeling will last.
Endangered species are typically a good choice, local sanctuaries will also appreciate the help.
Cosmetics & Skin Care
This one can be a lot of fun. You have the choice of creating your own creams and body scrubs, or you can source some really great products from around the globe. You can look out for certain markers on the packaging to help make sure you get the right thing. In general, you’ll be looking for cruelty-free, vegan, palm oil-free, and recyclable packaging.
Making your own might have a preference here if you are creating something for your friend, as you are much more likely to get those feel-good moments when they ask for more! Here are a few ideas
- Handmade soap bars
- Packaging free shampoo and body wash
- Homemade body scrub
- Homemade lip balm
Recipes
One of the quickest ways to help someone improve how they impact the world is to supply some recipe cards (and the offer to make one) for vegan meals. Eating more vegetables and fruit has a significant impact on them mentally and physically, which is always good, and for the environment too. More so if the product is purchased from markets and not supermarkets (unless they are one of the many that are ditching plastic-wrapped fruits and veggies.
