When it comes to Christmas shopping, it is so easy to get caught up in the stress of finding the perfect gift. Believe me, I have been there on more than one occasion! Seems like I always have at least one person on my list that I have no idea what to get them. The stress builds and I end up buying a gift that no one wants or needs! However, when you give a thoughtful gift, you will experience positive emotions that can overpower the effects of stress and actually strengthen your immune system? It’s true….it is called a “helpers high.” So, in an effort to end our shopping stress, I put together a list of some of my favorite things that would make great gifts for anyone on your list.
1. Compassion It Wristbands – We are living in challenging times and we can all benefit from a little more compassion in our lives. Compassion It is a nonprofit that sells these cool wristbands to serve as a reminder to make compassion a priority every day. The wristbands come in a package of 2 for $10. And, they are offering free shipping for the holidays!
2. Cedar Balsam Candle – I discovered these candles at Trader Joe’s last year and they quickly became a favorite of mine. They are made of a coconut-soy based wax, are paraben free and the cotton wick is lead free! The holiday scent is nice without being too overpowering. At $3.99 each, they usually sell out quickly so get them while they last! If you miss out on this deal, another favorite of mine is GoodLight Natural Candle. They have a eucalyptus citrus scent that is lovely. These candles are a little more expensive ($9.99), but worth every penny! I have seen them at Natural Grocer and Whole Foods.
3. 2018 Dining Club Card – This one is for Tucson locals. I have been a fan of this card for several years now. Basically, it is a “buy one entrée, get one free” card that can be used at about 20 restaurants around town. The card is valid from April 1 through the end of October. You can purchase the card attucson.com/store and they are taking pre-orders until January 14. 2018. The cost of the card is $15. Trust me…this is an awesome deal!!
4. Honeywell Portable Heater – The cold weather is here and everyone can use a little extra heat. I recently discovered this gem when I was looking for a room heater for my massage room. This definitely fits the bill. It is super compact and has a quiet hum so it will be perfect for your home or office. They also make a fan which is ideal for those hot summer days!
5. Lulu’s Chocolates – No list would be complete without some chocolate!! Lulu’s chocolates are made locally in Sedona, Arizona. The chocolate is organic and fair trade. They are free of soy, gluten, dairy and refined sugar. Simple ingredients and totally yummy! Whole Foods carries Lulu’s or you can order online. Better yet, take a drive to Sedona and visit their store. You will not be disappointed 😉
6. Pukka Tea – Who doesn’t love a cup of hot tea on a cold morning? However, with so many varieties to choose from, finding a quality tea can be overwhelming. Look no further because Pukka teas are awesome! The ingredients are organically grown and ethically sourced and the flavor is amazing. They carry a wide selection of herbal and caffeinated teas. Right now I am loving the Tumeric Glow. A blend of turmeric, green tea, cardamom and lemon tulsi. I found a stash of these teas in the food section at Home Goods. The price could not be beat!
7. Affirmation Banners – These banners are colorful displays of positive affirmations that you can hang inside or outside. Each banner is 6″x24″ and made of a silk like material. Gratitude, Serenity, Peace, Love, Hope, Joy and Prosperity are just a few of the words to choose from. They are $12 at mandalaarts.com. I recently bought the “Serenity” banner and have it hanging on my patio. I feel relaxed just looking at it!
8. WishGarden Herbal Remedies – If you have a Grinch on your list, grab a bottle of Liquid Bliss and put it in their stocking. A couple splashes in their eggnog and they will be singing jingle bells in no time 😉 Liquid Bliss is a combination of 4 herbs plus cacao and orange peel…..yum! The herbs are certified organic, wild harvested and non-GMO. WishGarden makes a plethora of herbal remedies to choose from so be sure to check them out. Natural Grocer and Sprouts carries the entire line.
I hope this list has inspired you and perhaps made your holiday shopping a little less stressful. As we enjoy this season of giving, consider taking this opportunity to share some positivity, wellness and love. And, don’t forget to grab one of these gifts for yourself. I recently read that gift recipients liked a present more when they knew the person who gave the gift also had the same item. Cheers to that!!
Enjoy the holidays, stay safe and be well.
Many blessings,
Denise
