Have you ever considered the neuroscience behind giving? Ever noticed the warm feelings you experience when you offer someone something that has a unique personal value? There is now scientific support that generosity amongst each other (prosocial behaviour) such as volunteering, donating and simple acts of kindness floods the brain with dopamine and oxytocin which make as feel good. Generosity is also strongly linked to higher job satisfaction, less burnout and more contentment in personal relationships.

One example in indigenous culture comes from the peoples of the Pacific Northwest of Canada and the US. The word potlatch means to “give away” and is still practiced between clans, villages and nations.. The main purpose of the potlatch is the re-distribution and reciprocity of wealth. Giving away takes the form of food and essential goods and also songs and dances. What is most emphasis is that status is acquired not by those who have the most but by those who distribute the most.

Consider ways you can incorporate “give aways” as part of your daily life. Aside from supporting our incredible array of charities, here are some ideas to get you started.

• Give aways must hold the spirit of generosity. If you are currently swamped with work, caring for family and spinning multiple plates, giving can feel like one more thing to do. Giving can also be the gift of reminding someone they are capable of handling something, giving yourself permission to sit in the sun for 10 mins or even the gift of receiving support, warmth or care from another.

• Consider a giveaway gathering with like minded friends. Allow each participant to share something they love and gather together in a collective potlatch ceremony. Everyone will walk away feeling the gift of reciprocity.

• Spend time in nature - cultivating a space in your garden where you take in the sights, sounds, smells, sounds and even tastes of nature whilst pulling some weeds, planting some herbs or simply sitting quietly. Nature unconditionally provides the gift of life that we can take in through our senses.

• Set up a foot soak at home for family or friends. Ask each participant to bring a component or an essential oil they love. Swap smells, share some quiet conversation
and soak and immerse.

• Consider a recipe swap where you can share secret food delights, add some new spark to your cooking. Fill up on food and laughter which you can share later with
loved ones.

• Clothes swapping is a great way to gather together, celebrate each others unique