Gifts and offerings can be traced as far back as the “archaic societies” of Polynesia, Africa, or among many Native American tribes. Originally, this exchange made it possible to conclude alliances, to reinforce social bonds, or to seal a marriage, for example.
It was a means of communication, the scope of which surpassed that of the spoken word. It could also serve as a form of dialogue with a superior force, as is the case with offerings dedicated to deities.
In short, the concept of the gift has crossed the ages and spanned traditions. But these days, when the holiday season comes around, the question on everyone’s minds revolves around what gifts they should buy.
“Gifts are an expression of feeling,” explains Dr Bonnie Buchele, an American psychoanalyst based in Kansas City, speaking to the “New York Times”.
But she says the real question one should ask is: “What do I want to say here with this gift?” And within this question lies, among other things, the spirit of the holiday celebrations.
The joy of giving
When it comes to sharing gifts, you probably feel the excitement of giving your gift and seeing a smile on your loved one’s face. But where does this feeling of happiness come from?
To understand it, you need to look at what’s going on in the brain. When gifts are exchanged, the reward circuit is stimulated, causing the secretion of dopamine: the happiness hormone.
A second process is underway, that of empathy. This sensation is called the “vicarious” or indirect reward, as described in a 2015 study from Stanford University.
In fact, it’s proven that giving promotes happiness. A 2008 study conducted by a Canadian team from the University of British Columbia analysed the effects of spending money on others.
The results were clear: “Spending more of one’s income on others predicted greater happiness,” the researchers explained.
This idea is highlighted in a further study, in which Swedish researchers analysed happiness related to spending and noted that the level of happiness was higher when spending was linked to the happiness of others.
Choosing a gift
To be sure to please, the best approach is to identify the needs and desires of your loved ones. Be attentive to clues in conversations or in their schedules, for example.
This kind of “investigation” will allow you to better understand those you care about. Plus, among other things, this active research can help save time on your holiday shopping, especially if you leave it to the last minute.
If this process proves particularly difficult, then consider opting for environmentally friendly gifts, which cause an “emotional lift” in the recipient. According to the science channel BrainCraft, handmade gifts or donations to charity have the same effect.