Slow Giving – Mindful Gifting
Slow Living: Mindfully Savoring The Moment
The Slow Movement pops up in media in all kinds of contexts these days: Be it as Slow Food, Slow Fashion, Slow Living, or Slow Giving – it's basically found everywhere. Have you ever wondered what this »Slow« really means? Whether it’s just another trend or, anyway, what the fuss is all about?
Well, the term »Slow« in the above contexts suggests »deceleration«. It invites us to do things slower, more consciously, with more awareness. It’s not at all about idleness or being lazy, but focused on taking time to mindfully enjoy and appreciate essential aspects of our lives.
»Slow Living« is an invitation to relax into the moment more often; taking a deep breath instead of rushing through our lives all stressed and harried. Instead of attempting to do yet more, yet faster, we reflect and recollect, remembering our own values, finding back to a more humane pace, gaining inner contentment and improved quality of life and living.
Living »Slow« is a philosophy, a lifestyle, with the potential to positively touch and impact every aspect of our daily routines. By approaching everyday tasks and activities with a new focus and a different kind of commitment, we perceive them as more fulfilling and meaningful.
... now, how do I give »slow«?
Slow Giving, being one aspect of Slow Living, refers to a certain inner attitude of thoughtfulness and consideration, which determines how we choose and give gifts. In English speaking countries it is often referred to as »Mindful Gifting«, which pretty much puts it in a nutshell.
Modern media and advertising campaigns usually try to tempt us into buying things rashly, on an impulse. Basically, all they want is sell their stuff, triggering us to buy without giving things much thought. »Slow Giving«, however, promotes quite the opposite. When we give »slow«, we give with love and attention. We do not rush about at the very last minute to quickly find some random gift, but actually take our time. We think about what might make a specific person really happy, what would bring them joy and make them smile. »Slow Giving« puts a strong focus on showing our affection and appreciation of another, putting an emphasis on relationship and connection. We take time to reflect and consider what kind of gift is most likely to express what we feel for someone, while also considering this person’s individual needs, taste and preferences.
The value of a gift that has been given mindfully is never restricted to material aspects but always encompasses the interpersonal as well. In picking and giving presents wholeheartedly, with the other person in mind, we may strengthen and deepen our connection.
Slow Giving is Soulful Giving!
Giving »slow« means giving with mindfulness and consideration
»Slow Giving« is a concept promoting a more mindful and also more sustainable way of giving. It involves more deliberation, heart, and soul, and intends to counterpoint our increasingly fast and sometimes superficial modern lifestyle and consumerism — an approach that makes a huge difference especially in gift giving, as it deepens the quality of our experience by adding value and significance to the act of giving itself.
A »slow« chosen gift or present doesn’t necessarily have to be expensive or sophisticated in any way. They can be rather small and specific things we might have made ourselves, maybe some creative DIY idea we know someone will love. At other times, thinking about what may give a certain person the biggest joy right now, we realize it’s nothing material at all, but simply time spent together, or maybe support with a project, something they are struggling to get done. This way, the act of giving becomes an act of soulful contemplation, compassion and empathy, turning a gift into something special and memorable.
Slow Giving is more than just a trend. It's an invitation to give more mindully and consciously. By taking considerate time to focus on true value, both for the person as well as in terms of quality of making and materials, we contribute to a more sustainable future for all.