Gifts for the Sustainably Conscious: Find unique gifts and treasures at these local, independent retailers.
December is that special time of year for gift giving and receiving. It’s good to remember that not only is this the busiest month for many retailers, but one that sets the tone for the coming year in terms of recycling and other environmental impacts. Let quality take precedent over quantity and think about whether the recipient will actually use the item instead of gathering dust in a corner. Sustainability has many parameters; it’s important that it fill a need of the giftee rather than serve as some kind of wish fulfillment for ourselves. Do the homework and make it count.
METAPHYSICAL GIFTS
Wellspring Books, 1170 North Gilbert Road, Suite 115, Gilbert, 480-834-4187, WellspringBooks.net.
With a holistic approach, they offer a large selection of books, from self-help, spirituality and metaphysical topics such as crystals, auras, color, dreams, astrology, numerology, past lives and much more. They carry tarot decks to other divination tools such as runes and pendulums, stones and crystals, plus jewelry.
TOXIN-FREE HOUSEHOLD GOODS
Organic Living, 8342 North 7th Street, Phoenix, 602-224-5313, OrganicLivingAz.com.
Home products and furniture that are safe, healthy and improve quality of life. Top 5 Organic Essential Oil Starter Kit includes an instruction card for how to use each oil with carrying case. Oils in the kit are Lavender, Peppermint, Lemon, Mental Clarity and Stress Recovery
INDOOR PLANTS
The Bosque Phoenix, 214 East Roosevelt Street, Phoenix, 480-695-9329, TheBosque.life.
Holiday-themed modern goods that are great all year; clean, white pottery and gifts that remain timeless. A large selection of indoor and patio plants of all sizes and collection pottery and more. Natural Awakenings readers receive a 5 percent discount and a free air plant.
NATURAL PETS
Noble Beast, 1005 East Camelback Road, Phoenix, 602-265-4223, NobleBeastPets.com.
A health-oriented pet shop offering natural food, treats, supplements and other items for dogs, cats and chickens. Jax & Bones Holiday Woolie toys are made with non-toxic vegetable dyes. Chilli Dog Hand Knit Dog Breed ornaments are made by free trade artisans.
HERBAL GIFTS
SW Herb Shop and Gathering Place, 148 North Center Street, Mesa, 480-694-9931, SWHerb.com.
Buy one tea blend or herbal extract and get one at 30 percent off in December. All bulks herbs are 10 percent off. Also, there is a new herbal baby line, hydrating face cream, dental products, CBD oils and more. Customized gift baskets available.
GLUTEN-FREE BAKED GOODS
Gluten Free Creations Bakery, 10880 North 32nd Street, Phoenix, 602-680-7258; 7607 East McDowell Road, Scottsdale, 480-990-2253, GlutenFreeCreations.com.
Holiday-related cakes, desserts, breads, mixes and more; many are shippable. GFC strives to introduce delicious new items locally made in small batches using the most natural ingredients possible.