November 2021 Newsletter - Gratitude

Hello Friends,

November is all about gratitude. It's no coincidence that Thanksgiving corresponds with the year's final harvest. Traditionally, this is a time for celebration of the bountiful food brought in from the fields to last through the winter, and that the hard work of the season is over. When we have plenty, it feels good to share in an exchange of reciprocity. 

I am grateful for my beautiful fiancé and two teenage stepdaughters, our home, the opportunity to do work that aligns with my values, and everyone who is part of the Terra Haven family — including you!

According to Greater Good, new research has uncovered that gratitude helps to promote sustainable behavior. When resources dwindle, as we saw during the COVID 19 pandemic, it is all too common for people to panic shop and further deplete grocery store shelves. People who feel gratefulness tend to continue to take only what they need regardless of how scarce resources seem or what other people are doing. Multiple studies suggest that gratitude, not happiness, promotes social awareness and wellbeing in individuals — which can also increase a sense of connectedness. Read the full article HERE.

My hope is that over time, we can build a more sustainable home, community, and world simply by practicing a little more gratitude. In our house, we like to say something we’re grateful for at supper. I quietly give thanks any time before I eat. This Thanksgiving, I especially want to take a moment to reflect on what it takes to fill our table with food, from the ground in which it was grown, the hands that harvested & packed it, all the way to the grocery clerk before I drove home with it. 

Sustainability tips:

1. Start a Gratitude Practice - there are so many ways to practice gratitude, and lots of ideas online if you feel stuck. You could start a gratitude journal, say grace, or make a habit of expressing appreciation to those you care about. 
2. Green Gift Giving - Terra Haven's apparel are produced with recycled or organic cotton and recycled polyester whenever possible. All Haven merch is printed in the US and are Print On Demand, which means unsold items will never collect in landfills. Browse our new line of family eco fashion HERE and show off your love of sustainability!
3. BYOM - don’t forget your reusable mug or tumbler for your favorite hot (or cold) beverages this time of year! After you’re done with your coffee, refill it with water and keep sipping for hydration. Bonus points if you brew your coffee at home with unbleached paper filters. Check out our brand new collection of Terra Haven home & accessories which includes an assortment of reusable mugs & water bottles HERE.