by Holly Schweitzer Dunn, LISW

As we move into a season of exchanging gifts, it’s easy to confuse the spirit of generosity with the act of shopping. Before buying your first present, consider naming your intention for this year’s gifting. Perhaps that’s a monetary intention – staying within a budget – or the emotional space you want to give to each person on your list. Maybe you simply decide to set your intention on giving an experience instead of a tangible thing. Whatever you decide to use as a focus, the act of intentionally pausing will help you to mindfully move about the shopping experience.

Keep in mind the person for which you are shopping, and make the gift a reflection of how you see him or her. Conversely, you can give as a reflection of you with your talents and natural gifts, and allow the giving to be centered on creation rather than consumerism.

Want to give more thought to mindful gifting this holiday season? Here are a few resources that goes beyond the giver and recipient:

• Gifts That Make a Difference
• Give in someone’s honor at Heifer International
• Want something to unwrap? Try Ten Thousand Villages