Lifestyle

Have trouble wrapping, and want to make your gifts pretty?  Instead of using traditional bows (that either go directly in the trash or reused on your gift next year),  try using dried flowers as an embellishment.  Your recipient will have a nicer smelling, au natural decoration! ...

Naturally, we use more energy in our homes during the holidays than other times of year. Here's some quick pointers to help you save where you can (without sacrificing any of your holiday spirit):

When giving presents for the upcoming holidays (or birthdays), reuse newspaper or old wallpaper instead of purchasing wrapping paper. The recipient can laugh at last week's "Funnie's" section (or catch up on the news) while opening their gift.

I've gotten a lot of questions recently on the environmental impact of Christmas tree. What's best- an all natural real pine or an artificial tree that'll last you a few years? Here's the dirt on real v. faux:

To take good care of the planet, you need to take care of yourself first. Last night Ali Shapiro, Health Counselor and Director of Integrative Nutritional Counseling, and Nicole Lipkin owner and Executive Director of Equilibria Psychological & Consultation Services hosted an event focusing on the importance of taking care of your body (your temple!) and mind. Ali & Nicole are both impressively knowledgeable in their own rights, and I would recommend anyone seeking help in their areas of expertise to give their services a try. Here's just a few things I took away from the discussion last night:

Stay safe on the roads and save energy by keeping your tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pounds per square inch (PSI.)

Planning a Christmas or Hanukkah holiday party soon? Send out invites electronically rather than in snail mail - They'll get to your guests faster, be easier to track guest responses, and save paper (& trees!)

You know the obvious recyclable materials - plastic water bottles, cardboard, tin cans etc. - but don't forget about the not-as-obvious items you're through with that can be re-used.

Fretting over what to give this holiday season? Try giving gift cards instead of presents. Gift cards are more useful and green then conventional presents - there's less packaging involved, and the recipient can choose what they really want. Worried about retail stores going under?