There can be a lot of pressure around giving a thoughtful holiday gift. The challenge with gift-giving is what is going on in the gift-givers mind differs from the receivers. You may feel that since you only got something on their wish list, you needed to put more effort in, which is not valid.
There are many ways to give a genuinely thoughtful, healthy holiday gift, whether on or off their list. Certain items can show how you care about their physical health and overall well-being. Here are five ways to give a healthy holiday gift and ideas on what you can get.
How to Give Thoughtful Gifts
When it comes to gift giving, gifts that require a lot of effort, like something handmade, can symbolize how much you care. This is a nice gesture but should also include putting in the effort to align it with what the recipient wants. Giving from the heart can be sentimental. Research shows givers shy away from sentimentality more often than not, but recipients appreciate present with emotional value.
The thoughtfulness comes from the fact you were thinking about somebody when you got them something, even if they weren't expecting it. It does not come from the amount of money you put into it since we value the expression of warmth after giving someone a gift. Even if it is a small thing, it matters if it shows you were thinking of them.
Showing that you care about someone's health is a beautiful way of expressing how you genuinely care about them. There are so many thoughtful gifts to give that express the importance of wellness. Here are some ways to give the gift of health this holiday season.
1. Light Therapy Lamp
Light therapy lamps could be the ultimate gift for your loved ones who tend to have low energy with the afternoon sunsets or a case of seasonal affective disorder (SAD). It shows you care about how they navigate their days and whether they feel down or need a pick-me-up in the middle of the workday. They can prop this gift on their desk for the boost they need.
Light therapy lamps mimic outdoor light. This type of light may cause a chemical change in the brain that lifts your mood and eases symptoms of SAD, like having low energy and sleeping too much.
2. Sunrise Alarm Clock
As the seasons change, getting out of bed can be more difficult. If your loved one prioritizes punctuality or sticks to a strict morning routine, this alarm clock will start their morning off on a good note. Not only does it slowly light up for a soft, stress-free awaking, but it can have many other features.
The nightstand staple can also have a sound machine, smart light, personal sleep tracker, reading light and wind-down assistant. Depending on your type, you can use an app to control the light and sounds to ensure your desired sleep cycles. A sleep routine is a great way to feel more energized and relax your mind from the day.
3. Holiday Seafood Gift
Seafood is low in saturated fats, high in protein and packed with nutrients like vitamins A, B and omega-3 fatty acids. Giving the gift of delicious healthy food provides the thoughtfulness you care about the receiver's overall health and it is a plus if they are a foodie.
There are a lot of healthy and quick dinner options to choose from. Choose from selections like sea scallops, shellfish, salmon or lobster tails. If your loved one is into a rich seafood treat, try lobster mac and cheese or seafood soups and chowders. No matter what they prefer, there is sure to be a delicious option for them to choose.
4. Weighted Blanket
The weighted blanket is a cozy gift and promotes soothing stress and anxiety. The idea is that the pressure of the weight puts your autonomic nervous system into “rest” mode and reduces some anxiety symptoms like a fast heartbeat or rapid breathing. The blanket can provide and overall sense of calm.
If you know that the receiver of your gift suffers from anxiety, sleep disorders or ADHD, this can be the perfect thoughtful gift. It shows you care about their mental health and are finding ways that may help them manage their symptoms.
5. Happiness Journal
Journaling is a great and effective way to meditate or get your thoughts out of your head. Getting someone a happiness journal can allow them to set goals, reflect or reminders about their daily lives. It can spark writing and practicing gratitude toward your life. A journal is an excellent gift for writers and people working to achieve higher happiness.
The Gift of Giving
There are many ways to give genuine and thoughtful gifts to your loved ones. Nothing is more thoughtful than a gift that shows how much you care about someone's health. Try gifting these options and watch your loved ones fill with joy.
