Issue Nº 503

Thursday

In today’s issue, we’ll take a look at:

• An Earth-friendly twist to the holidays

• What’s your green Christmas tree plan?

• Gifting green this holiday season

• Dim the lights and discover the extraordinary

Did You Know?

Can you rent a Christmas tree instead of buying one?

Scroll to the bottom for the answer.

Celebrate the Holidays With An Earth-Friendly Twist

The holiday season can feel like a whirlwind of to-do lists, shopping, and social gatherings—but it’s also the perfect chance to slow down and reconnect with what truly matters. Here are some simple ways to embrace nature and give back to the planet this season:

1. Enjoy the Winter Outdoors - Bundle up and get outside! Just 20 minutes in nature can lower stress hormones and leave you feeling refreshed. Try snowshoeing for a fun twist on hiking, cross-country skiing at a local park, or birdwatching to spot winter favorites like cardinals and owls. Many parks also offer guided activities like stargazing or animal tracking, making it easy to embrace the season’s beauty while staying active.

2. Bring the Outdoors In - Get creative with nature-inspired decorations like dried oranges, pinecones, and branches. Not only are they sustainable and waste-free, but they also add a warm, earthy touch to your holiday decor. Bonus: Try eco-friendly swaps like beeswax wraps to cut down on plastic waste.

3. Support Conservation Efforts - Donate to wildlife preservation or reforestation projects. Adopt eco-friendly habits, like using reusable products or gifting sustainably made items. Every small action adds up to a healthier planet.

Reconnecting with nature this season brings joy and reminds us to care for the planet we share. Which of these ideas will you try?

Your Green Christmas Tree Plan

When it comes to holiday traditions, Christmas trees are a staple for many households —but have you ever thought about making yours more eco-friendly? Whether you prefer real or artificial, there are some easy ways to reduce your tree’s environmental impact and celebrate a greener season.

Choosing a Tree:

If you’re going for a real tree, look for one from a local farm or a sustainable grower. Many farms replant trees each year, helping to offset carbon and protect the soil. For an even greener option, consider renting a live potted tree, which can be replanted after the holidays. Prefer artificial? Choose a high-quality tree you can reuse for many years to minimize waste.

Decorate Sustainably:

Skip the tinsel and go for natural or reusable decorations like dried citrus slices, cinnamon sticks, or fabric garlands. LED lights use up to 80% less energy than traditional ones, making them a festive and efficient choice for lighting up your tree. Plus, you can utilize what you already have. Don’t feel like you have to buy new decorations every year!

Disposing of Your Tree

It’s important that real trees don’t end up in landfills. Look for local recycling programs that turn trees into mulch or compost, or use the branches in your garden to protect plants from frost. Artificial trees last longer but aren’t recyclable, so care for yours to ensure it stays in good shape for years to come.

By making thoughtful choices, your Christmas tree can be both festive and eco-friendly! Small steps make a big difference—what’s your plan for a greener tree this year?

🎁 Make This Holiday Season Meaningful 🎁

This year, we’re making it easy to give gifts that are as thoughtful as they are kind to the planet. Whether you’re shopping for a nature lover or someone passionate about sustainability, we’ve handpicked eco-friendly options to make your holidays merry and mindful.

Here are a few of our favorite finds:

🌍 Upway Bikes – The gift of adventure, with a green twist! These certified pre-owned e-bikes are perfect for anyone who loves exploring the outdoors while reducing their carbon footprint. Stylish, sustainable, and full of possibilities. Use code REVEL150 for $150 off! 🚲

🌿 BloomsyBox – Fresh, ethically sourced flowers delivered right to their door! BloomsyBox partners with eco-friendly farms to create stunning arrangements that bring sustainable beauty into any home. A gift that truly blossoms with care. Use code SENDJOY for 20% off sitewide.

🌱 Let’s make gifting sustainable and special this year. Click below to explore our full guide and score exclusive deals on planet-friendly gifts for everyone on your list! 🛍️

Shop The Holiday Gift Guide!

Magical Experiences When You Turn Off the Lights

Sometimes, the best moments happen when you switch off artificial lights and let nature or simple joys take over. Here are a few enchanting experiences to try when you flip that switch:

Stargazing Under the Night Sky

Without artificial lights, the stars shine brighter than ever. Grab a blanket, head outdoors, and marvel at constellations, meteors, or even the Milky Way. It’s a humbling and peaceful way to reconnect with the universe—and yourself.

Candlelit Evenings

Create a cozy atmosphere with candles or lanterns. Whether you’re reading a book, enjoying a quiet dinner, or simply reflecting on your day, the soft glow transforms the moment into something special.

Shadow Play and Creativity

Turn your walls into a canvas for shadow puppets or silhouettes. This nostalgic, simple activity can be fun for kids and surprisingly entertaining for adults, too!

Connecting Over Conversation

Without distractions, conversations feel deeper and more meaningful. Share stories, memories, or dreams with loved ones. It’s amazing how a darker room can spark brighter connections.

Embracing Natural Rhythms

Spend time aligning with the natural light outside—watch the sunset, embrace the twilight, or rise early to catch a sunrise. These moments of natural beauty often go unnoticed in our brightly lit world.

Turning off artificial lights can conserve energy, but it can also create space for magical experiences. So, what will you try the next time you hit the switch?

Reflections:

• 🌎 Did You Know: Yes, you can rent a Christmas tree instead of buying one. Some companies let you rent a potted tree that’s replanted after the holidays, making it a sustainable alternative to cut or artificial trees.

• 🌅 Sunset Of The Day: The sun can provide the most beautiful photography. That's why we're eager to see your favorite sunrise or sunset photos. Reply to this email with your best sun-based pictures for a chance to be featured in next Wednesday's newsletter!