The Added Stress to pre-Christmas Preparations

Christmas shopping has taken on a new focus this year.  Normally the shops are packed leading up to the big day but this year the pandemic has added a level of anxiety to this already stressful period.  Now we have social distancing to consider, with limits to the number of shoppers allowed in at one time.  Christmas shopping during a pandemic is even more stressful than it normally is.

Many people aim to avoid the shops for fear of getting sick, especially if they are in a high risk category.  Online shopping is a growing sector of the market as shoppers strive to avoid the crowds.  It is best to purchase as early as possible because delivery may be delayed due to demand this year.

Christmas Shopping During a Pandemic Is Stressful  

Personally I find Christmas shopping to be very stressful at the best of times.  The noise level gets on my nerves, with annoying sound tracks (never the nice versions of favourite Christmas carols) competing with screaming kids.  The pressure to buy the perfect gift is very high.  I had a full blown panic attack in the toy aisle one year.

Over the years my Christmas list has become shorter and shorter as the kids grow up and the adults agree to not buy presents for each other.  I try to do my Christmas shopping very early in the year to avoid the rush.  Most of my presents are purchased through online shopping this year.  Online shopping is my answer to avoiding the crowds and lower my stress levels. This post aims to introduce a few unique online sources of gifts.

Avoiding the Crowds with Online Shopping

I’m an affiliate for the following companies which means I will earn a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.  Please see my full disclosure.

There are always a few people that are hard to buy for.  They’re the ones who are picky, or they have everything.  We’ve resorted to buying gift vouchers in the past but I definitely prefer to buy something meaningful.  

Gifts Australia

If you are scratching your head trying to find a unique present, take a look at the Gifts Australia website.  They have some wonderful gifts on their site.  You can search for presents according to who will be the recipient, the price range and the occasion.  They offer free delivery over $99 within Australia, free gift wrapping and a gift card.  I love their hampers as they are full of quality goods and beautifully presented.

The Well Store

If someone on your list is health conscious, or vegan, or loves environmentally friendly products, have a look at The Well Store.  Their range is extensive so you are sure to find a unique gift.  Many people are making these lifestyle choices so buying them a thoughtful gift will be much appreciated. All of the products sold by The Well Store are non-toxic, natural, organic and cruelty free. The Well Store offers free delivery within Australia for purchases over $30, and Internationally for purchases over $50.

HideAWAY Bath and Body

Beautiful skin care, body and bath products can be purchased for someone special at HideAWAY.  This is a local company who handcraft their skin care range from locally sourced natural ingredients.  With names like Black Sugar, Frangipani Dream and Fantasea, their unique fragrances are very enticing.  A lovely gift from their range would be perfect for someone who appreciates prioritising time for self care. HideAWAY offers free shipping for purchases over $120.

Amazon

If you live further afield, you may prefer to do your online shopping from Amazon.  Amazon’s website showcases gift ideas for all price ranges and gift categories. I’m waiting impatiently for the Black Friday and Cyber Monday sales to complete my Christmas shopping for the year.  Black Friday is November 27 while Cyber Monday is 30 November.  These sales are eagerly anticipated as the discounts are huge.  

More Ideas to Help With Your Christmas Shopping

I have written two previous articles which you may like to read:  Gifts that Inspire a Healthy Lifestyle and Gift Guide for the Older Gentleman in Your Life.  I also have a free eBook “Survival Guide for the Holiday Season”.  It helps you reduce your stress and keep on track with your healthy lifestyle during this busy season. Christmas shopping during a pandemic doesn’t need to leave you stressed and run down.

How about you – do you love Christmas shopping or does it stress you out?  Are you someone who buys everything early, or do you leave it til the last minute?  I’d love to read your thoughts on this.

Shared in Life This Week Linkup on Denyse Whelan Blogs