Christmas is the season of giving. Gift-giving has been taking place in the UK for thousands of years. There is even evidence of people exchanging presents in the Neolithic period (4,500 to 6,000 years ago). People would gather at sites like Stonehenge in England to mark the end of one year and the beginning of the next. Over time, gift-giving moved from New Year to Christmas Day. Some people love receiving gifts; others enjoy the planning of the perfect present to give someone. Giving a present to someone else can improve mental health and help to build relationships with others – but does anything really beat the buzz of opening your dream present on Christmas morning? What do you think? Is it better to give than receive gifts?
Yes – it is always better to give presents The true spirit of Christmas is all about giving thoughtful gifts to others and seeing the look of joy on their face. When you take time to pick out or make a special present for someone in your life, such as a relative or friend, it shows them just how much you care. It's also a really great feeling watching someone important to you get excited about a brilliant gift that you've picked specially for them. It really does make you feel happy too. Most importantly, by taking the time to give a gift to someone else, you are helping to spread joy and happiness over the festive season. This is particularly true if you donate to a charity or give a gift to someone who otherwise wouldn't get one. That's what Christmas is all about.
No – nothing beats the magic of receiving The absolute best part of the festive season is waking up on Christmas morning, seeing presents under the tree with your name on them and getting to open them. It's wonderful to give presents to friends and family, but opening your gifts and sharing your excitement with others is a fantastic feeling. Watching other people open their presents is lovely – but it can also be a bit nerve-racking in case they don't like what you got them. The build-up to Christmas Day is really fun, wondering what gifts you're going to get and waiting all year to see if you get that one special toy. There's also the fun of playing with your new gifts all day and inviting others to enjoy them with you – you can't beat it!
