This week Nordstrom announced they would not decorate their stores for Christmas until after Thanksgiving. Every other retail entity is already pushing shopping for Christmas. Buy, buy, buy. But what are you buying? What are you giving?
The pressure is on. But as you hand over your credit card, you know in the pit of your stomach it is not something your family member or friend really wants or needs. It is just something to give; someone to check off your list.
The chi or energy of the maker is in everything, including the gifts you give. People who are seriously into Macrobiotics believe the energy and emotions of the person preparing a meal is in the food. Maybe that is why the meals prepared by a much loved grandmother, aunt or father tasted soooo good. They were made with love.
I have a handmade sweater that always makes me feel special whenever I put it on. Something I don’t experience with a machine knit sweater. I have a hand-thrown cereal bowl. I love the way it feels in my hand when it is filled with hot oatmeal with cinnamon and raisins. I get the whole sensory experience of texture, smell and appearance; something that is diminished with a factory made bowl.
I would like to think the person who knitted my sweater chatted and laughed with friends while her needles clicked back and forth. I would like to think the potter who sold the cereal bowls to me at an open studio event enjoyed the process of molding the clay in her hands while it spun on the wheel.
A suggestion: if giving and receiving a tangible gift is important for you and your giftee, then consider taking advantage of local craft fairs and open studio events to buy something that is not only handmade, but is made locally.
How to add the Feng Shui Spirit to Your Holiday Gifts
Maybe you could make something and imprint your love and intention into it. That way the gift is a vehicle for your love and care. Instead of spending hours buffeted by crowds at the mall, you could relax in your kitchen and make batches of biscotti, spiced nuts or chutney. Then creatively wrap them. Or you could make holiday ornaments. Consider making this a family project. If you are not talented with cooking or crafting skills, then take advantage of the craft and art events in your area.
Let friends and family know ahead of time you will be gifting in a simpler way this year and giving gifts from your heart.
If this handmade/homemade idea doesn’t fit you or your family and bought gifts are the only way to go, then please, take a minute before you wrap each gift to attach your love and best wishes for the receiver into the gift, whatever it is. Your best gift is your love.
How are you sharing the Feng Shui spirit this holiday season? Share your ideas in the comments below.
photo by squirrel_cottage