Sam Silor, MHC

It’s that time of year again when all the stores start to lure us in with impossibly sparkly window displays while the music of jingle bells hits us with a dose of serotonin and nostalgia. Shopping during the holiday season is practically intoxicating, especially in this bustling city. And while being in the midst of it can certainly be exciting, it also has a tendency to not only overwhelm but overburden. Many of us feel immense pressure to spend money during this time of year and it doesn’t help that we’re inundated with messages subtly communicating that spending money is equated with our care for others. If we’re not careful, it can be easy to get sucked into this capitalist-fueled narrative that we must demonstrate our care through commodities. Furthermore, we may also end up unintentionally supporting corporations/organizations that stand against human rights. So how do you combat this vicious cycle this holiday season? 

1. Take it back to the basics with art: No, you’re not too old for crafts! In fact, crafting can be an amazing way to connect to our often ignored inner child. Crafting is something that forces us to become mindful and intentional and stretches our creativity. Consider if there’s something you could make for others with your hands. Is there something from when you were younger that you could modernize? Do you have any unique skills that you could share? The recipient will likely be touched that you put so much thought and effort into creating something special just for them. 

2. Enter the heart through the belly: One of my favorite ways of saying “I love you” is through cooking. I personally believe that the food we cook gets imbued with the energy we put into it and therefore it’s a great way to spend a lot of loving energy on the people you care for. Do you have a signature dish that you could share? Could you pickle some veggies and decorate the jar? Do you have your grandmother’s famous cookie recipe that you could recreate for your family? This is a great way to also ensure there’s no waste created from your gift. 

3. Redistribute your wealth: Rather than funneling money into objects that can later be discarded, consider giving money towards mutual-aids and social justice organizations for a more lasting impact. Is there a friend who cares deeply about abortion access? Consider donating towards a grassroots org in their name. Is there a family member who holds a marginalized identity? Consider giving towards organizations that uplift that person and their community. This is an excellent way to show that you’re mindful of how you distribute your wealth and that you care about your loved one’s values.    

So let’s ditch the glitter and guilt this holiday season and get creative!!

**If you do decide to buy traditional gifts this holiday season, consider supporting black-owned and lgbt+ owned businesses.