Guide to..A sustainable xmas

So.. Christmas (or the winter holidays to be more politically correct) is approaching fast, with all the stress of finding that perfect last minute present, making sure the fridge is stocked, last minute groceries shopping, ordering that turkey, catering for the vegetarians in the family..
the list of stressful things is endless..     

And, let's admit it, these holidays tend to make the most of us fall into the consumerism trap.
I, myself, love this time of the year with the presents under the tree, and mostly I love to find the perfect present for my loved ones and that feeling of anticipation for them to open it (honestly I love giving more than receiving). This year will be extra special as I am going away to spend it with my partner's family which I will also meet for the first time, and I will visit a new country and a new city.. lots of new! 


So, how can we ensure our holidays are a bit more ethical and sustainable? 
Here are a few simple rules I live by: 

• These holidays are for family (whether your main one, your biological one , your second one, your adoptive one, your circle.. whatever you want to call your family) 
• They should be filled with and by love, so it doesn't matter how much money you have, you can have a great time with less. 
• Don't worry about your cooking skills, you can always order in! Or why not ask some friends/family to help? Will take the pressure off and can make for a great xmas having fun in the kitchen (flour fights, anyone?) 
• Handmade presents are a lot better than bought things. So time to brush up on your painting skills, or knitting or whatever your passion is. Why not write a song to someone? 
• Reduce, reuse, recycle is as valid over the holidays as outside! Just keep that in mind. Try to wrap your present sustainably, get a sustainably grown tree (or why not get a reusable one, or get inventive and make one with bits of woods/scraps etc..?! Or maybe a book tree! Plenty of inspiration can be found on various blogs and pinterests! Just type into google to find your favourite...)