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With so many of us being home this year, it’s likely that we’ve had at least a few thoughts about our consumption. We may realize we own more than we actually need. Whether that be due to having to keep up with cleaning around the many objects, or realizing how little we wear our clothes; I am hopeful that our consumption habits are something we are now actively thinking about more than ever. That’s why I’ve created these holiday gifts that give back; a guide.
These gifts are far from typical. These gifts benefit either organizations or environmental causes that marry our gift-giving with purchases that give back.
From top left to right: Rothy’s The Point Shoes | Allbirds Women’s Sneakers | Sports Bra | Leggings |MUD\WTR Functional Benefit Drink| Compostable Nespresso-compatible Espresso Pods |Mask | Leaf “leather” clutch | Reusable Utensils Set
About These Gifts That Give Back:
If you plan to shop at any of these stores, make sure you make an account with Rakuten to save additional cashback! It’s at no cost to you!
Rothy’s The Point Shoes: Rothy’s is giving back by producing items that are made from recycled water bottles, and certainly made to last. Additionally, they use eco-friendly rubber, as well as a vegan leather option for their soles. You can read more about their sustainability practices here.
Aside from their daily production practices, Rothy’s has created something called the “Open Innovation Coalition” or what they call the “OIC.”
Through the OIC, Rothy’s is hopeful to share its expertise in producing medical gear with other brands interested in this mission.
Allbirds: Allbirds is taking drastic strides to help healthcare works as well. They have donated over $500,000 to healthcare workers thus far. Additionally, they created the “Better Together” pledge to donate a pair of shoes to a healthcare worker. These shoes are meant to be worn by workers that are on their feet for the majority of their days.
If desired, you may donate a pair of shoes to a frontline worker for the price of $60.00 vs $95.00.
Aside from their allegiance to the many frontline workers, Allbirds also utilizes sustainable and recyclable materials for their shoes. You can read more about those items here.
**For those in the EDS community: this brand also carries hightop sneakers. This may help to support weak or hypermobile ankles. These types of shoes are often recommended by podiatrists.**
Leaf Leather Clutch: Treetribe is a wonderful company that I have admired for a few years now. They create items that help to plant trees with each purchase. They also utilize some materials that are eco-friendly such as this “leather” that’s made from recycled leaves. Additionally, the mask, bra, and leggings are all made in the USA which I love to hear. With each purchase, a tree is planted. If buying the leggings, I recommend sizing up 1-2 sizes if you are curvy. They run extra long for anyone that is 5’11” or taller!
MUD\WTR: MUD\WTR While unconventional to mainstream medical and media, Psychedelic studies are becoming more and more popular. MUD\WTR donates a portion of their earnings to an organization called “MAPS.”
MAPS is “The Multidisciplinary Association for Psychedelic Studies (MAPS), an organization that develops medical, legal, and cultural contexts for people to benefit from the careful uses of psychedelics” states Medium.com
I added this brand as it is more prevalent to read studies within the Ehlers Danlos community on the use of psychedelics for symptom management. This is in regards to EDS or its comorbidities. While I do not utilize any psychedelics as of yet, my curiosity in their medically managed capabilities remains strong. When your world is turned upside down by illness, no potential management tool is discounted.
Compostable Nespresso-Pod Alternatives: This is one of the very few brands on the market that produces compostable Nespresso-compatible pods. We must continue to ask ourselves what our impact is from our purchases. “Impact” can be both negative and positive. We need to start voting with our dollar with brands that align themselves with more sustainable practices. Our daily items are a great starting point!
Reusable Utensils Set: Instead of using plastic cutlery each time you eat out or pick up food, you can now utilize reusable silverware. When ordering food, make sure you spell out that you do not want any plasticware to help reduce plastic usage. If you know they bag their items in plastic, opt to bring your own bag too!
Don’t forget: Use Rakuten with a few of these stores by becoming a part of the program. You can easily install the chrome extension!
As always, feel free to DM me on instagram with any questions!
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