by Lauren Loveless

During a week when so many Americans have experienced some combination of joy, rage, and frustration in seeking the perfect holiday gifts for their children, it seems appropriate to pause and ask: Where did the practice of giving Christmas gifts to children come from?

Christians see gift giving as a symbolic homage to the Three Wise Men's tributes to the baby Jesus. In the New Testament, the Magi are described as honoring the newborn Savior with valuable gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh. While many believe this is the origin of Christmas gift giving, it actually dates back to an even older tradition. Gift giving during the winter is an ancient tradition that can even be traced to winter-solstice celebrations before the famous birth occurred. During the ancient ceremonies of Saturnalia, which were celebrated for seven days beginning on December 17, Romans believed that their generosity of trading gifts would bring them good fortune in the coming year. Today, the responsibility of bringing gifts to people all over the world is bestowed upon one large man in a big red coat - Santa Clause.

Lucky for us, Santa will soon be here! He will be swinging by the studio to bring our customers hot chocolate mugs and holiday candles, but you can only choose one - Santa’s elves are very busy this time of year! How can you get your hands on one of these gifts hand delivered by old Kris Kringle himself? Come join us for our Christmas themed yoga/pilates class and you get a free pass to Santa’s nice list. We hope to see you there!

Holiday art created by Rosa Velazquez.