Christmas is a joyous and magical time.
It’s definitely the season to be merry but it’s also known as the season of giving and how do you give? By being kind!
Kindness helps those in need, it spreads joy, strengthens connections and actually reduces our stress levels.
So let’s have a look at the ways we can make a difference in the lives of others.
- Sticky post-it notes: they cost nothing but they’ll brighten someone’s day!
Just a short message or a couple of words, complimenting someone, praising someone, telling them you love them... anything positive!
- Cook a meal for someone who’s having a hard time.
A lovely and thoughtful act. It doesn’t have to be a full meal, a cake will do! Making a meal or baking a treat for someone may not feel like you're helping but gestures like this can mean an awful lot to someone who is struggling or going through a hard time.
- Handwrite a letter.
Handwritten letters are a rarity now but the extra time and effort taken will be valued by your recipient. You might be thanking them, giving them your news or telling them how much you appreciate them. There’s something special and personal about a hand-written note.
- Visit a lonely neighbour and/or older person.
Christmas can be an isolating time for those on their own or estranged from family. For some, this festive season is a cruel reminder of just how lonely they are. Perhaps you can invite them over for a coffee or a drink or take them some treats? There are many ways to connect and it’s a kind and thoughtful act.
- Offer to shop, run errands, tidy garden for someone who’s struggling.
Taking care of chores for someone is a wonderful way to show you care. Running errands can alleviate pressure on someone's day and allow them to focus their energy elsewhere.
- Donate blood.
You’re saving lives – how kind is that?! Did you know -blood stocks actually dip from mid-December until early January? Possibly the best gift you can give.
Find out where your local donation centre is here.
- Clean up litter.
Do it as an individual or with a group, any amount of time you can spend doing this is a great kindness by creating a better environment for us all. By the way, many local authorities will lend litter-picking kits to groups.
- Say ‘hello’ and smile as we pass people.
Very simple gestures that may improve someone’s wellbeing. We’ve no idea what people are going through and it might, just might, brighten their day!
- Offer to walk a dog.
Lightening the load for someone who is struggling for whatever reasons, an offer to walk the dog will be greatly appreciated.
- Make contact with a homeless person.
We all need care and attention and to feel valued. It doesn’t have to be a conversation, just eye contact and a smile can help. If you start talking, it may be a good idea to ask them if there’s anything you can help them with. At this festive time of year the weather is usually pretty cold and sleeping on the streets becomes more dangerous.
bigissue.com has some good, practical advice.
- Donate to food and clothes banks.
One of the busiest times of the year. Add in some Christmas goodies too! Check out your local drop-off points.
- Leave gifts for delivery drivers.
At this extremely busy time of year, show your appreciation!
- Join a stem-cell registry.
Donate your stem cells and help save the life of someone with blood cancer or a blood disorder. Did you know only 30% of blood cancer patients find suitable family members?
- Leave biscuits, chocolates, cakes or their favourite treats anonymously in the office/on desks.
Brighten everyone’s day!
- Let someone enter your traffic lane.
Spread goodwill and community spirit around! You’ll feel better for doing it!
So a few ways to spread a little kindness this Christmas!
The festive season can be tough on people. By being extra thoughtful we CAN make a real difference to others.
- May we suggest another act of kindness this season?!
Send a hamper!
Whether to say ‘thank you’, ‘get well’, ‘sorry’, ‘hello’, ‘I love you’ or ‘Merry Christmas’, we’ve got you covered!
Check out our wonderful range of luxury hampers!
 (38)_oqWi.jpg)