We Think the Perfect Gift Makes You Happy and Healthy — Here Are 54 Wellness Gifts We Love

We Think the Perfect Gift Makes You Happy and Healthy — Here Are 54 Wellness Gifts We Love

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There’s never a better time for self-care than around the holidays. I’m a licensed psychotherapist, and I’m always nudging my clients to take good care, but it’s especially important around the holidays. Family drama, extensive travel, and financial stress can take a toll on everyone’s well-being. That’s why I’m presenting a gift guide solely focused on self-care, since the stress doesn’t end as the holiday season ends.

We tested hundreds of items, and then I combed through our reviews to find the very best self-care and wellness gifts we’d actually like to unwrap this holiday season. So from gifts for the fitness-obsessed who want a solid at-home setup, to your loved one who wants to get off social media and into a new hobby, we can guarantee there is something for everyone.

For the Fitness Enthusiast

Fitness should be at the foundation of any self-care routine. Getting active can help with sleep and minimize symptoms of mental health ailments like anxiety and depression.

Consider one of these buys to help your loved one boost their wellness.
a photo of better mini pilates reformer.

For Your Bougie Bestie

BetterMe Mini Pilates Reformer

We all know a bougie Pilates princess: She goes to reformer classes daily, has matching workout sets, and her posture is impeccable. These people can be the hardest to shop for; they seem to have everything and honestly prefer a fresh matcha after a tough IRL class above a leisurely brunch.

The BetterMe Mini Pilates Reformer is sure to be a surprise that exceeds all her expectations. I have this reformer, and it has been a great substitute for when my favorite studio class is booked. Plus, it’s friendly for small spaces; I can tuck it under my bed when I’m not using it.

a photo of mat pilates equipment bundle kit.

For the Pilates Lover

Your Reformer Mat Pilates Pack

Sure, studio Pilates sessions are great. But have you tried upgrading your at-home mat workouts with some equipment?

This kit from Your Reformer has everything you need to pump up the burn: A yoga mat will keep your joints protected. An inflatable ball can be put between your thighs to add resistance. A set of booty bands adds the sensation of increased weight, no bulky dumbbells required. I use this set all the time; I love that it has everything I need and comes in a range of colors.

Moon Juice magnesi-om

For the Gym Rat Who Is Always Exhausted

Moon Juice Magnesi-Om

Sleep is an important part of any exercise regimen. While there are plenty of benefits, one of the most notable is injury prevention. In fact, research shows that those who sleep fewer than eight hours a night are almost twice as likely to get injured while exercising.

Moon Juice’s Magnesi-Om is an excellent option to get some quality snoozing. I drink it nightly and love how it makes me sleepy without leaving a burdensome groggy hangover. It’s also great for digestion. I like to mix it with red cherry juice in a fancy glass for a special bedtime mocktail.

ankle wrist weights

For an Easy Workout

Bala Bangles

The time management required to get a workout in can feel like an olympic feat alone. Make things easier with Bala Bangles. These wearable weights can be placed on your wrists or ankles and are perfect for wearing during an at-home workout or for a stroll around the block. “It saves me time because I can get a little bit of extra resistance training in while doing regular activities,” shares writer Brittany Vargas. I even saw my neighbor taking a stroll around the block while wearing them on her wrists.

a photo of alo magnesium reset spray.

For Your Class Bestie Who Takes Recovery Seriously

Alo Yoga Magnesium Reset Spray

There’s nothing worse than hitting your stride with a workout routine and then falling off because your muscles feel too sore. This is why it’s so important to take post-workout recovery seriously.

Stretch, hydrate, and spritz some of this magnesium spray from Alo Yoga on tired muscles. Aside from magnesium, this spray also has arnica as a hero ingredient, which is a natural remedy for muscle pain.

I use this consistently after my workouts, spritzing it on my muscles before stretching and foam rolling. Gift this to your workout class companion — they’ll love how thoughtful and useful this gift is.

For the Wellness-Obsessed

The desire to see just how many fitness equipment pieces you can fit into the house is a key sign that you have a loved one who is obsessed with wellness. Luckily for you, we tracked down a few gifts that are right up their alley.
body wash

For the Scent-Sensitive

Nécessaire Unscented The Body Essentials

It’s hard out here for those who are sensitive to scents but love a luxurious moment in the shower. Many body products have some sort of scent, leaving scent-sensitive folks with minimal options.

That’s why we love Nécessaire’s unscented body essentials set. The set comes with body wash, body lotion, and deodorant. It takes the elevated ingredients Nécessaire is known for but nixes the fragrance, minimizing the risk of headaches and skin irritation for those who have scent sensitivities. I got this set for my pregnant bestie’s hospital bag so she could have an indulgent shower without having to worry about strong fragrances triggering post-labor queasiness.

Love the concept but want all the fragrance? Check out the brand’s other scents, which range from smoky and earthy to herbal and refreshing.

a photo of osea salts of the earth body scrub.

For Anyone Who Loves a Spa Treatment

Osea Salts of the Earth Body Scrub

The Salts of the Earth body scrub from Osea will transport them to the spa without ever having to leave the house. It combines mineral-rich salts with shea butter to create a formula that’s both satisfyingly exfoliating and indulgently moisturizing.

While the price tag is a bit high for a body scrub, the 12-ounce container lasts a long time. Though I regularly repurchase this for myself, I recently gifted it to my mother-in-law, and she loved it.

Heads-up: The shea butter is ultra-moisturizing, and it can leave your shower or tub pretty slippery.

honey

For Tea, Skin Care, and More

Mānuka Honey Extra MGO 600+

Mānuka honey is a true multipurpose product. It can be applied to cuts and scrapes to help them heal faster, smoothed over the face for glowing skin, or added to a cup of tea for an antioxidant-packed sweet treat. “It’s delicious,” says writer Caitlin Beale of the Mānuka Honey Extra MGO 600+ from Mānuka Health. “The box it came in was quite fancy and felt elegant.” Slip it in their stocking or wrap it for a petite yet powerful gift under the tree.

a photo of wildwood five-year guided journal.

To Find Awe and Wonder Every Day

Rifle Paper Co. Five-Year Journal

Journaling is wonderful for becoming attuned to the magic of everyday life. I first heard about this Rifle Paper Co. journal from someone in a mom’s group. She mentioned that keeping this journal has helped her document the ups and downs of building a family, serving as an excellent practice to keep her grounded as well as an heirloom to look back on years from now.

This journal has a pretty embroidered cover, making it perfect as a keepsake. It includes different prompts, such as Things to Remember, Things to Forget, and Important Dates. Gift this to the sentimentalist in your life — they’ll surely love it.

a photo of warmies microwavable neck wrap.

For the Lavender Lover

Warmies Marshmallow Lavender Neck Wrap

Warmies is known for creating weighted stuffies filled with French lavender that are beloved by children and adults. We were thrilled to see this neck wrap combine the lovely scent of lavender with the coziness of a fuzzy pillow that can be warmed for soothing comfort or chilled for refreshing relief.

Lavender doesn’t only smell good; it’s great for one’s health, too. It’s been shown to decrease symptoms of anxiety and depression while promoting overall relaxation.

This isn’t our first time falling in love with a product from the brand. Everyday Health editorial director Simone Scully has a sweet animal plushie from Warmies that her whole family loves. She uses it for everything from menstrual cramps to jaw pain.

air purifier

For Your Friend With Pets

Mercola Market True HEPA Air Purifier

If you have an animal lover in your life, you’ve likely heard (or smelled) the woes of keeping things fresh in the home. The Mercola Market Air Purifier has a HEPA filter that cleans indoor air. The purifier removes odors and offers a fresh-smelling environment, too. Plus, it’s quiet enough not to spook any furry friends while it’s running. The purifier is designed to catch 99.97 percent of tiny particles, including dust, pet dander, smoke, pollen, odors, and more.

I have two indoor cats, and we live in small quarters, so I’m paranoid about our home smelling like pet dander. But after running this purifier for just 20 minutes, any note of the litter-box odor or general cat smell was gone. This is soon to be the holy grail product in your pet parent’s home.

self care book

For Your Loved One Who Needs to De-Stress

‘Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included)’

This is a gift guide for all things self-care. It’s no secret that the term self-care can be overused, though. While baths and metaphysical practices like the use of crystals and astrology can help support one’s self-care regimen, there can often be a need for foundational personal-care to begin with. After all, it can be tough to even draw a bath if you’re struggling with depression. Real Self-Care: A Transformative Program for Redefining Wellness (Crystals, Cleanses, and Bubble Baths Not Included) offers a useful road map for creating a path to wellness that is deep, transformative, and sustainable. 

Penned by board-certified psychiatrist Pooja Lakshmin, MD, this book is inspired by her own experience of treating self-care as a regimen of juice cleanses and spa treatments. This led her to reflect on our culture’s approach to connection, wellness, and health, creating a program for well-being that is accessible to all. I had a chance to dig into this book and loved that it goes beyond fluffy vernacular about feeling good and drawing a hot bath. Instead, it looks into our culture’s shortcomings that are leading to a wellness crisis and suggests ways to find a path to wellness that works for you. This is perfect for your loved one who is often stressed and needs a lifestyle shift to find balance again.

sunrise alarm clock

For the One Who Wants to Be a Morning Person

Rise Centered The Original Sunrise Alarm Clock

I’m someone who desperately longs to be a morning person and nothing, not even having a child, has gotten me to lock into that state of mind. However, I’ve become convinced that something like The Original Sunrise Alarm Clock from Rise Centered could be just the trick. Each clock is topped with a light-up orb carved from Himalayan salt. The light will slowly glow on to wake you up in the morning, offering a soft, yet effective start to the day. “The light is very bright, so it does truly wake you up as a sunrise alarm clock, but it gets brighter slowly so you can slowly wake up,” says Scully. She celebrated that it doesn’t use Wi-Fi, harsh sounds, or even plastic, making it a gorgeous alarm clock that has a soothing nature-forward aesthetic.

serum

For the Friend Always Looking for New Skin Care

Earth & Halo Blue Crystalline Face Serum

This one is for that friend who’s obsessed with new, innovative skin care products. (Hi, I’m that friend.) Earth & Halo is a skin care company that is focused on clean formulas featuring natural ingredients and a gender-neutral ethos. This brand was created by a trans man who wanted skin care that could support his changing skin. I was immediately intrigued by its unique roster of ingredients. Organic water lily, edelweiss, and sea-grape extracts are just a few of the ingredients that come together to possibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles, boost collagen, nix hormonal acne, and provide soothing moisturizing.

I had the opportunity to test out this serum, and I absolutely loved it. After using it for about a month, I noticed my skin was soft, had a youthful bounce, and was dewy in the morning. I was stunned that this product wasn’t viral, so you’re sure to impress anyone you gift this to.

a photo of jubilee collection tea chest.

For the Comfort-Drink Aficionado

Tea Forté Warming Joy Presentation Box

Do you have a loved one who always has at least three drinks on their desk at any given time? Then Tea Forté is for them. The brand offers a convenient membership program that ensures you’re always stocked with tea. Plus, there are tons of unique flavors, like Black Currant, Ginger Snap, and Winter Chai.

We especially love the Warming Joy Presentation Box and its collection of comforting winter flavors. “With the cooler weather, I’m really leaning into fall and winter flavors. I love how warm and cozy these taste, especially the Winter Chai,” says editor Katie Tuttle.

a photo of bluecorn aromática candle.

For a Nontoxic Approach to Candles

Bluecorn Mountain Aromática Scented Candle, Mountain Lilac

Scented candles can either be the epitome of cozy or an overfragranced headache. This candle from Blue Corn falls in the epitome of cozy category. We love that it is a clean nontoxic fragrance that smells amazing. “It has a realistic lilac scent that doesn’t feel artificial at all,” shares Scully. She noted that it truly feels as if you’re standing next to a lilac bush, emphasizing the pleasant aromatic experience this candle offers.
a photo of canopy mist free evaporative 4 in 1 humidifier.

Help Them Breathe Easy

Canopy 4-in-1 Dishwasher-Safe Humidifier

Humidifiers are an excellent tool to have on hand, especially as we approach the dry winter months. They pump moisture into the air, which can help ward off dry skin and offer comfortable breathing.

This humidifier from Canopy is great because it has an antimicrobial filter that catches dust and other particles so they don’t get recirculated back into the air. It also has unique technology that keeps the inside of the machine dry so it doesn’t grow mold. “I love that the tank can be washed in the dishwasher,” says editor Ashley Ziegler. She also likes that it runs until the tank is dry, ensuring there aren’t any extra opportunities for mold growth.

Pro tip: New parents will also love this as a gift since humidifiers can be super helpful when littles get sick.

a photo of thulisa naturals eucalyptus shower steamers.

When It Is Time to Kick a Winter Cough

Thulisa Naturals Breathe Eucalyptus Shower Steamer

Winter colds are all too common and the congestion that comes with them can be maddening. This eucalyptus shower steamer from Thulisa Naturals is great for clearing congestion. All you do is toss it on the ground while you enjoy the cleansing eucalyptus aroma. “This is a great shower steamer if you’re ever a little congested or just like the smell of eucalyptus,” says Scully. She appreciated the potency of the scent, noting that it is strong enough to be relaxing but not so strong it is overwhelming, sharing that if she could use one most days, she would.

a photo of oceanfoam tidal roller.

For the Person Who Is Ready to Roll Things Out

Oceanfoam Tidal Roller

I’ll be the first to admit that foam rolling isn’t my favorite activity; I find it tedious and even painful at times. But a foam roller is an excellent tool to have on hand, especially for those who are very active. Foam rolling is shown to decrease muscle stiffness and boost elasticity post-workout when used regularly.

Despite my lack of enthusiasm for foam rolling, I find myself using the Oceanfoam Tidal Roller regularly. It has long, thin grooves that are reminiscent of ocean waves to roll out your muscles, which I’ve found to be more comfortable than other traditional rollers. I appreciate its aesthetically pleasing design and find it isn’t an eyesore when I leave it out in my living room. Plus, it’s made from algae and recycled materials. The brand states each roller removes 1 pound of plastic from the ocean.

For the Folks Who Are Always on the Go

These are for the people in your life who are juggling too many things at once, prefer a packed social calendar, and love to stay busy.
matcha starter kit

For Your Loved One Who Is Trying to Kick Coffee

Jade Leaf Matcha Starter Set

My best friend recently started a very demanding job. It isn’t uncommon for her to pull 12-hour days, and she is acclimating to various bouts of work travel. She found herself drinking cup after cup of coffee and noticed it was taking a toll on her physical health. One morning, she came over and I offered to make her a latte, only for her to announce that she had switched to matcha. She says that this switch has done wonders for her, noting that her sleep is better and her brain fog has disappeared. Research backs up these benefits.

So, if you also have a loved one who is overdoing their daily coffee intake, consider gifting them this matcha starter set from Jade Leaf. It has every tool they need to get started with at-home matcha drinks. I had the opportunity to try it myself and loved the handy directions that accompanied it. Heads up: It doesn’t include the actual matcha, so be sure to add a tin of the tea to your cart before checking out.

bright eye serum

For the One Who Loves a Late Night

Innisfree Bright-Eye Serum

Some folks simply are night owls. Or, according to the clinically correct term, they have a late chronotype. These are the folks who feel alert past dinnertime and would prefer a late night and an even later morning. Yet our culture isn’t optimized for people with that type of rhythm.

This serum from Innisfree uses green tea extract to brighten up the eyes, and it has a cooling, metal roller-ball applicator to soothe puffy under-eye bags. I was impressed when I tested this product. It was more effective than my $80 eye cream.

espresso machine

For the Coffee Lover Who Has It All

Terra Kaffe Connected Super-Automatic Espresso Machine

Listen, I’m obsessed with coffee and have most of the mainstream gadgets out on my kitchen counter. There’s a milk-frother, Nespresso machine, French press, pour over, and classic automatic drip. This may sound excessive, but each one serves a particular purpose. The only thing missing is an espresso machine. That’s where the Terra Kaffe comes in. It’s a single-serve coffee-maker that uses real espresso beans, giving you a fresh cup every time.

Writer Ysolt Usigan sings this machine’s praises. You can use your favorite coffee beans, she says, “and it does grinding and brewing all at once, so every cup is so fresh and to your liking.” She adds that she has no regrets about buying it, despite its hefty price tag. This splurge is worth every penny and is sure to impress anyone who has all the coffee gadgets.

a photo of alo high-waist airbrush leggings.

For the Cozy Fashionista

Alo High-Waist Airbrush Legging

Activewear isn’t just for working out. It’s also for being comfortable in your daily life. I love these leggings from Alo because they’re sleek, offer just the right amount of compression, and are excellent quality. They’re not sheer at all and stay in place, so I can wear them to the gym or to a Pilates class without a care in the world. They also work great with an oversized button-down shirt and sandals for running errands, too.

a photo of simple modern trek 40oz stainless steel lidded tumbler.

For the Friend Who Loves to Stay Hydrated

Simple Modern Trek 40oz Stainless Steel Lidded Tumbler

I was gifted this stainless steel lidded tumbler from Simple Modern when I was pregnant. “Trust me, you’ll want something that you can take a sip from quickly,” my friend shared. At the time, she was my only mom friend, so I trusted her advice. Turns out she was absolutely right.

My son is now over a year and a half old, and I use this tumbler daily. It holds tons of water, keeps it cold, and makes it so easy to take a sip without having to use two hands to unscrew a bottle top or worry about my toddler dropping a toy into an open cup. There are tons of colors, but I opted for the neutral almond hue.

For the Youngsters in Your Life

It’s hard to keep up with kids these days. But these gifts will delight, impress, and leave them enthusing for years to come.
a photo of the real life play kitchen.

For the Montessori Maven

Lovevery Real Life Play Kitchen

Self-care with kiddos isn’t just about activities that are enjoyable and stimulating for them. It’s also about activities that keep them occupied long enough for you to get a break.

Lovevery’s Real Life Play Kitchen checks all these boxes. Designed to be just like a real kitchen, it comes with a working sink, utensils, and a simple cookbook. Some parents choose to have kids practice practical life skills and task kiddos with washing their hands or preparing easy snacks. My son loves the running water and likes to wash vegetables in his kitchen. Meanwhile, I get to relax with a cup of coffee as I watch him explore and play.

a photo of slumberkins otter kin and 2 board books complete set.

For the Youngster Navigating Big Feelings

Slumberkins Otter Kin

Mental health is important for all of us, but you may be stumped on how to support your young kiddo’s mental health. This Otter set from Slumberkins is a sweet, soft, and educational gift set that teaches kids about connection, comfort, and managing big feelings like separation anxiety. This set comes with a sweet stuffed Otter and two board books that focus on the importance of strong kinship ties.

“I, as a mom, appreciate that they come with books that tackle a number of mental health and wellness topics for kids in a way they can understand,” says Scully. “They help kids better understand their emotions and cope with those feelings. For example, they have not only the two I got, but also ones on authenticity, gratitude, self-esteem, self-acceptance, routines, family change, emotional courage, conflict resolution, and more.”

Scully notes that this was profoundly helpful in supporting her son’s separation anxiety around sleeping in his room alone, taking the bus solo, and just generally being away from home longer during the school day.

Educational robot toy for kids

For the Tech-Obsessed Kiddo

Miko 3: AI-Powered Smart Robot for Kids

Artificial intelligence is here to stay, so we might as well embrace it. The Miko 3 is an AI-powered robot for kids. It’s fun, interactive, and actually quite educational. “It has some math games that my son, who is in first grade, had fun playing for way longer than I expected,” says Scully. Her son also liked carrying it around with him and was excited that the robot moved around and “danced.” Turns out that this toy, although pricey, has some valuable returns. “His math scores started to improve after we’d been playing with this for a couple of weeks, too,” she says.

kids helmet

For the Kid Who Is Ready to Go

Woom Ready Kids’ Helmet

Teaching your kid how to ride a bike is an exciting and terrifying rite of passage. Seeing them master a new trick and gain some independence is wonderful, but it isn’t without safety concerns. Woom has created helmets that focus on making sure your kiddo gets the perfect fit. With adjustable straps and removable padding, it’s sure to last a bit while your child grows. Editor Nicole Bonaccorso says that while it’s on the pricier end for a kids helmet, it is very durable, sturdy, and safe.

playmats

For the Wobbly Toddler

Totter & Tumble Strawberry Thief Play Mat

When my son was younger, I was on the floor with him quite a bit, reading, playing, and helping him get used to his newfound sense of mobility. Over time, I felt the strain on my knees and became hypervigilant about every little tumble my son took, since our old play mat wasn’t too shock-absorbent. Then came the Totter & Tumble mat.

This mat is cushy and comes in a variety of aesthetically pleasing colors. I like that there are three sizes to choose from — essentially a small, medium, and large — because I was able to select a size that was perfect for our tight living quarters. It absorbs impact well, so if my son took a tiny spill, he wasn’t perturbed at all. My knees were much happier, too. I can’t sing this mat’s praises enough, and am now pestering every pregnant friend I have to put it on their registry. Yes, it really is that good. 

baby sound machine

For the Babies Who We All Wish Would Sleep

Hatch Baby

As a new parent, I’m going to take this opportunity to preach to the choir: Having a baby really takes a toll on your sleep hygiene. From shushing a fussy infant to sleep, to waking up every few hours for feedings, it’s extremely taxing.

The Hatch Baby is a sound machine, nightlight, and alarm clock all in one. It has an easy-to-use app that allows you to control its functions from afar, and it offers useful information about infant sleep. It’s a staple in our household. Interestingly enough, it isn’t only parents who love the Hatch Baby; my childless brother-in-law uses it as a sound machine and alarm clock.

a photo of snuggle me organic cotton crib sheet.

For the Nesting Expectant Parent

Snuggle Me Muslin Crib Sheets

I, along with many of my friends, am very vigilant about natural fibers when it comes to any material that comes in contact with my baby’s skin. Since babies notoriously have extra-sensitive skin, this hyper-vigilance is essential to avoid any irritation. I had the opportunity to try out these muslin crib sheets from Snuggle Me. Made from 100 percent organic-cotton muslin, they’re soft, easy to clean, and come in pretty colors. I love that they come in a pack of two, since you always need an extra crib sheet handy in case of accidents.
a photo of bladerunner by rollerblade phoenix boys adjustable fitness inline skate.

For the Kid Who Gets the Zoomies

Rollerblade Phoenix Adjustable Skates

Even though there are plenty of benefits to having a high-energy kiddo in your life, it can be exhausting. That’s why it’s important to get them a gift that can help them get their excess energy out. These Rollerblades are a great option.

Ziegler noticed that they offer great ankle support, which is critical for safety when skating. She also liked that they’re adjustable, so she can hang on to them as her child graduates to larger shoe sizes. These worked out so well for her first kiddo that she is getting a second pair for her younger daughter.

To Impress the Gen Z-ers in Your life

Gen Z, the generation born between 1997 and 2012, can be tricky to shop for. We’ve rounded up a few gifts that are sure to impress them.
smart water bottle

For the Tech-Savvy

Larq Pure Vis2 Water Bottle

Gen Z is a totally different generation for many reasons, but especially for its relationship to technology. With this in mind, you’re likely to impress a Gen Z-er with practical yet technologically advanced products. I tested this Larq Pure Vis2 Water Bottle and loved it. It’s a self-filtering water bottle that includes an app to monitor your water intake and a light that illuminates as a reminder to drink more water. It has a self-cleaning feature, too, which is perfect for those who forget to rinse out their water bottle every now and then.
lip product

For the One Who Is Always on TikTok

Rhode Peptide Lip Treatment

If you have a Gen Z-er in your life who loves fashion and pop culture, there’s a good chance they like Hailey Bieber. The model, makeup brand founder, and partner to Justin Bieber is known for setting trends that often go viral on TikTok. Her skin care company, Rhode, is known for its viral lip treatments. I tested the Peptide Lip Treatment for our Best Lip Balms article, and it won my vote for the best lip gloss. If you really want to impress your Gen Z-er, add the lip case to the cart, too. It’s a phone case that has a spot for your lip gloss, so you always know where it is.

book journal

For the Friend Who Can’t Get Off BookTok

Rifle Paper Co. Embroidered Book Journal

Reading is trending again, thank goodness. If you have a friend who starts their sentences with, “While on BookTok, I found …” whenever they’re talking about the new book they’re reading, then this gift is for you. This book journal functions as a log to keep track of recent reads. The journal “is laid out like a log so you can record the books you read and what you thought of them,” says Scully. She says she was taken aback by the quality of the book, noting that the paper is thick and the pages hold up well with use. She was so pleased with the journal that she found herself feeling inspired to go back to writing by hand.
a photo of we're not really strangers card game.

For the One With All the Feels

We’re Not Really Strangers Card Game

From my experience with Gen Z-ers, they actually want to connect deeply with peers, friends, and lovers alike. So, give them a gift that will help them do so. The We’re Not Really Strangers card game comes with 150 cards that have prompts designed to help people go deeper in their relationships, build meaningful connections, and learn about each other.

I like how flexible it is. You can play with a lifelong friend or a new flame. The game can last for 10 minutes, or you can take your time going through the whole deck. Player’s choice!

For Getting Cozy

‘Tis the season to be bundled up and cozy. Turn up the hygge vibes with these picks.
custom curated gift sets

Sugarwish Curated Set

A Personalized Gift Set Your Work Bestie Will Love

Figuring out gifts to give those involved in your professional life can be challenging. You may not know enough about them personally to find a gift that will truly speak to them, but the intimacy of working closely together everyday likely nixes the appropriateness of buying a generic gift.

These curated sets from Sugarwish are perfect for situations like this. While Sugarwish is typically known for their sweet treats, these gift sets are a bit different. You send the recipient an e-card that includes a link for them to pick out their own gift set, making for a fun, unique, and innovative gifting experience.

“I think that Sugarwish’s curated gift sets are nice wellness-themed gift sets that encourage self-care and work great for that friend or family member who you’re not 100 percent sure what they’d want,” says Scully.

candle refill

For the Eco-Conscious Friend Who Wants a Cozy Home

Siblings No. 4 Clean Candle

There’s nothing like walking into a home that smells fresh with a sweet candle lit. This candle from Siblings takes an innovative approach. It has a low-waste package, with the wax arriving in a bag. You’ll melt the wax in the bag and pour it into a vessel of your choice. You can opt to use a cup you have laying around, a used up candle vessel, or you can buy a new one from Siblings. The idea is to cut down on the unnecessary waste created by purchasing new candles and instead reuse vessels. We think it is a pretty genius idea and it’s perfect for your eco–conscious friend who wants a cozy home.

a photo of diptyque tuberose classic candle.

For Adding Extra Hygge to Their Winter

Diptyque Tuberose Classic Candle

I once asked a friend how she survives brutal Chicago winters. “I lean into the hygge as much as possible: comfy blankets, special candles, and warm drinks,” she shared. Hygge refers to the Danish and Norwegian word that roughly translates to “supreme coziness.” This sparked an idea for an excellent gift, especially for those in cold-weather climates: high-end candles.

Diptyque is an iconic fragrance house hailing from France. It’s known for creating unique and addictive scents housed in beautiful glass vessels. The tuberose scent is a classic, especially appealing to those who love realistic floral scents. Plus, your giftee can reuse the empty vessel to hold pens or makeup brushes.

a photo of the awake morning kit flamingo estate.

For the Wannabe Morning Person

Flamingo Estate The Awake Morning Kit

We’ve already discussed my longing to be a morning person. I could continue to go on and on about why I wish I were and how I’m disappointed that even having a baby didn’t transform me. But instead, I’m going to focus on how you can help other poor sleepyheads like myself.

Coffee and caffeinated tea are my usual go-to’s for good reason. But the Awake Morning kit from Flamingo Estate is an unexpected pick-me-up that will have them looking forward to the blaring buzz of their alarm clock. Invigorating peppermint is woven into the soap and body wash, while the candle focuses on the warmth of Douglas fir, making for an invigorating shower experience. Then, of course, they can top off their morning with a cup of Flamingo Estate coffee beans. Perfection.

heated blanket

For That One Friend Who Is Always Cold

Bedsure GentleSoft Solid-Flannel Heated Blanket

It’s hard to get cozy when you’re cold, and some of us just tend to run cold. We love this cuddly heated blanket from Bedsure. You can use it anywhere you need an extra dose of warmth, whether that’s in a chilly office cubicle, a drafty room in your home, or on a trip. Our writer Marisa Olsen says it’s an affordable, quick fix for those who are always catching a chill. It heats up quickly, has six heating levels, and is under $70, making it an easy, no-frills option.

purple pillow

For a Great Night of Slumber

Purple Freeform Pillow

It can be difficult finding that perfect pillow to lay your head on for a good night’s rest. If you’re feeling like your life has become like The Princess and the Pea, look no further than the Freeform Pillow from Purple. This pillow is customizable, thanks to its removable filling, so you can count on having a pillow that is just right for your needs. Writer Raki Swanson acknowledged that the price tag hovering right around $200 may feel like a bit much, but she was quick to clarify. “Worth every penny,” she says.
nursing dress

For the Breastfeeding Mama

Embrace Nursing Dress

Breastfeeding is a tiring job. Between healing after giving birth, nurturing a newborn, and being sure to keep the body fueled enough to produce milk, feeling put together often seems like a faraway dream. This nursing dress from Embrace is comfortable and cute. It is made of soft, stretchy, ribbed cotton fabric and has a supportive shelf bra that is functional for breastfeeding. It also doubles as a maternity dress, ensuring your recipient gets a ton of use out of this piece. I have this dress and love it. I can’t wait to gift one to my pregnant best friend.

photo album book

For the Sentimentalist

Artifact Uprising Custom Everyday Photo Book

Whether it’s the new mom eager to soak up every moment or your globe-trotting bestie, you likely have a sentimentalist in your life. This photo book from Artifact Uprising is perfect for those who would love to have their favorite memories collected in one book. Users can select their favorite photos and have them uploaded into the book.

“I’ve been making baby books and family photo albums with Artifact Uprising for years,” says editorial director Scully, “and they make great gifts for loved ones.” Whoever you gift this photo book to will be sure to hold on to it for years to come.

a photo of sheex original performance cooling sheets.

Cozy Sheets For the Friend Who Runs Hot

Sheex Performance Sheets

No feeling compares to the splendor of curling up in bed between some soft sheets. And, similarly, no feeling compares to the frustration of waking up sweating in those soft sheets. These ones from Sheex are designed to be temperature-regulating, breathable, and perfect for those who run hot while sleeping. They can easily slip over a mattress and accompanying pad without blocking out any special benefits. “They’re light enough that I can still feel the ‘cooling’ feature of my mattress pad through them,” says Ziegler.
a photo of loftie lamp.

The Chicest Wake-Up Call

Loftie Lamp

Alarm clocks can be an eye sore, but this one from Loftie sure isn’t. The Loftie Lamp looks like a chic and modern lighting fixture, complete with a spectrum of pleasant colors it can emit. You can program it as a sunset light to help you wind down, as well as a sunrise light to help you wake up. “You can also pick what time you want [the sunrise or sunset function] to take,” explains Scully. This handy tool helped her wake up easily in the morning and wind down more peacefully in the evening.
a photo of aesop sarashina aromatique incense.

For Your Friend Who Always Has Candles Lit

Aesop Sarashina Aromatique Incense

I’m all about gifting friends things they haven’t tried but I think they’ll love. This incense from Aesop falls in that category, especially for folks who love candles. There’s something so cozy about incense — the warmth of the scent, the way the smoke lingers in the air, the long-lasting burn. It’s great for folks who love to fill their homes with scents and offers novelty for those used to candles.

This particular one from Aesop has a nice sandalwood scent and comes with a simple, design-forward holder. The price tag is a bit on the higher end, but I find that makes it an even better gift since not everyone would think to shell out $50 on incense for themselves.

house plant

For the Beginner Gardener

The Sill Calathea Rattlesnake Plant

Having a green thumb is a learned skill. If you have a loved one who loves the aesthetic of house plants but is nervous about their ability to keep them alive, then this Calathea Rattlesnake plant from The Sill is the perfect gift. This plant is tolerant of low light and only needs water every one to two weeks, making it beginner-friendly. It isn’t just the plant that is gorgeous — you can choose from three lovely planters (or you can choose to purchase in a grow pot). “I love that the plant shipped with a ceramic planter and it arrived happy and healthy,” says Scully.

For the Chef

These gifts go out to the one who is always insisting on cooking dinner, vies for any chance to take on holiday-cooking duties, and glows when their cooking is complimented.
outdoor griddle

For the Grill Master

Cuisinart 28" Outdoor Griddle With Hood

If cooking is how your loved one keeps their stress down, then they may love an unexpected gift like this outdoor griddle. The 504-square-inch flat-top can cook up to 24 burgers, so it’s fantastic for those who relax by hosting and sharing a meal with a bunch of their loved ones.

One of our writers, Alexandra Ginos, was thrilled by the versatility of this tool. “We’re so excited about the flat griddle top to make a wider variety of foods than a traditional grill — pancakes, stir fries, meats for a cookout crowd, more vegetables,” she says. “I also like that there’s less cleanup than the slats of a traditional grill.”

Heads-up: The setup process is a bit involved, but it doesn’t take away from how fantastic of a gift this is.

a photo of ghia non-alcoholic spritz grand voyage pack.

For the Sober-Curious

Ghia Grand Voyage Non-Alcoholic Spritz Pack

The sober-curious movement is taking over, with more and more people opting to decrease or cut out their alcohol consumption altogether. Despite this, our culture still centers on alcohol when it comes to gathering, hosting, and celebrating. Ghia is a health-conscious brand that creates nonalcoholic spritzes. The company promises no artificial flavors, no added sugar, no caffeine, and never any spirits.

As someone who is nine years sober, I’ve tried many nonalcoholic drinks and been plenty disappointed. However, Ghia’s drinks are a pleasant surprise. They’re light, delicious, and also please my friends who love alcoholic drinks.

Pro tip: Grab a pack for yourself and keep them on hand for your next event. Your teetotaler friends will thank you.

a photo of lunchbox bible by julia tellidis and lauren skora.

For the Kiddo’s Chef

‘The Lunchbox Bible’

My son is 19 months old, which means he’s moving beyond the world of smushed up avocado and plain sweet potato and is developing more sophisticated tastes. It recently dawned on me that I was totally out of my depth when it came to recipes that worked for him (translation: not a ton of salt, easy to eat, gentle on the stomach) and were still appetizing for my husband and me. After all, I did not want to get stuck making separate meals for us.

The Lunchbox Bible has not disappointed. The recipes are designed to be easily packed away into lunches, which means they also keep well and reheat easily. There’s so many recipes that we all eat regularly. I’m partial to the hummus and the Everything Sauce, but you truly can’t go wrong with any of these bites.

a photo of the lula cafe cookbook collected recipes and stories.

For the Advanced Chef

‘Lula Cafe Cookbook’

I truly believe Chicago is one of the best cities for food. Whenever I visit, my first stop is beloved chef Jason Hammel’s Lula Cafe. It won a James Beard Award in 2024 and received an honorary shout-out in the Michelin Guide. Its recipes are inventive, primarily organic, and truly delicious.

For those who aren’t in Chicago often, the restaurant has a cookbook featuring some of its standout dishes. I was gifted it, and while it’s amazing to be able to whip up a piece of Lula Cafe at home, the recipes aren’t for the novice chef. I view this as a good thing, because it is sure to excite, challenge, and impress the advanced chef in your life.

a photo of viking 3-ply stainless steel tea kettle.

Something to Look Beautiful on Their Stove

Viking 2.6-Quart Matte Black and Copper Stainless Steel Whistling Kettle

Something that can make a kitchen feel effortlessly pulled together is a well-designed tea kettle on the stove. Modeled after an old fashioned tea kettle, this one lets out a nostalgic whistle when it is done boiling. “It has a modern look with a classic shape, which I personally really like, and it can work on induction, gas, electric, halogen, and ceramic stovetops,” says Scully. This is a kettle built to last that offers a sweet alternative to stereotypical electric boilers.
a photo of fritaire glass air frye.

For the Hungry Loved One Who Is Stretched for Time

Fritaire Self-Cleaning, Nontoxic Air Fryer

I think about my life before having an air fryer. I was stressed, it was difficult to make a quick meal in the oven, and things just weren’t perfectly crispy when baked. Then, I think about my life after having an air fryer. Things are just easier. I can quickly cook something, anything, and everything can suddenly have the ideal crunchy crisp, and I notice my stress around meal preparation on a busy weeknight has gone down.

This experience has made me confident in saying that an air fryer is an excellent gift for anyone trying to up their self-care. This self-cleaning, nontoxic air fryer from Fritaire is an excellent option since its self-cleaning option means even more time in the kitchen is saved. 

Writer Mary Sauer found this to be a convenient tool in the kitchen that looked great on her counter. “I've noticed it is much easier to keep clean than our other air fryer. It seems to be a combination of the self cleaning function and the glass,” she says. Aside from families, she noted that this could be perfect for college kids or someone moving into their first apartment.

How We Chose the Best Gifts for Self-Care

We took great lengths to select the best gifts for self-care. First, we called on some help from our roster of writers, all of whom are veterans of the wellness industry and some of whom, like myself, are licensed mental-health professionals. We tapped each of them to test out various potential gifts, leading to over 400 products being tested. From there, we narrowed down the options to make sure every gift included in this guide was useful, accessible, and relevant to the importance of self-care.

I then hand-selected the top 54 products that I think are the best for self-care. I employed my expertise as a therapist, my years of experience in beauty and lifestyle writing, and my knowledge of current trends in wellness to refine this selection. From there, I combed through recent research to reinforce the importance and effectiveness of these products. Finally, our editors reviewed each selection to make sure it was in alignment with their own research and insights.

Why Trust Everyday Health

We independently investigate and recommend products and services we believe will enrich the lives of our readers and meet their specific needs. You can trust our reviews because we do the legwork for you. Read more about why you can trust us.

Julia Childs Heyl, MSW

Author

Julia Childs Heyl, MSW, is a California-based clinical social worker and mental health writer. Her writing often focuses on mental health disparities and uses critical race theory ...

Nicole Bonaccorso

Nicole Bonaccorso

Editor

Nicole Bonaccorso is a writer and editor with more than 12 years of journalism experience. She has been writing for Everyday Health since 2025, and has also been published on NBCNe...

Alexandra Ginos, MBA, RD, CSP, CLC

Tester

Alex Ginos is a registered dietitian who specializes in pediatric nutrition. She received a bachelor’s of science in food science and human nutrition from the University of Illinoi...

Ashley Ziegler

Tester

Ashley Ziegler is a full-time writer with extensive experience covering women’s health, babies' and kids' health, mental health, and wellness. Her work has appeared on websites inc...

Katie Tuttle

Tester

Katie Tuttle is an editor and writer specializing in food, nutrition, and product testing. Her work has appeared in EatingWell, Food & Wine, The Spruce Eats, and Real Simple. She h...

Marisa Olsen

Marisa Olsen

Tester

Marisa Olsen is a seasoned food, health, and lifestyle writer as well as a product reviewer and tester. Her work has appeared in several print and digital publications, including E...

Mary Sauer

Tester

Mary Sauer is a freelance health and parenting writer whose work often covers mental health (especially maternal mental health), grief, and caregiving. Her work has been published ...

Julia Childs Heyl, MSW

Tester

Julia Childs Heyl, MSW, is a California-based clinical social worker and mental health writer. Her writing often focuses on mental health disparities and uses critical race theory ...

Simone Scully

Tester

Simone Scully is the editorial director for service commerce and marketplace content at Everyday Health. She has nearly 15 years of experience as a professional health and science ...

Ysolt Usigan

Ysolt Usigan

Tester

Ysolt Usigan is a veteran writer, editor, and commerce journalist with more than a decade of experience creating lifestyle, health, wellness, and shopping content for brands includ...

Raki Swanson

Tester

Raki Swanson is a Minnesota-based freelance health writer and married mother to two adult children. She has experience covering mental health, fitness, food, and lifestyle topics, ...

Brittany Vargas

Tester

Brittany Elyse Vargas has been a professional writer and journalist for over a decade and has been exploring topics around mental health, mind-body medicine, health, wellness, and ...

Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN

Tester

Caitlin Beale, MS, RDN, is a registered dietitian and freelance health writer with experience in clinical nutrition, education, research, and private practice. Caitlin’s special in...

EDITORIAL SOURCES
Everyday Health follows strict sourcing guidelines to ensure the accuracy of its content, outlined in our editorial policy. We use only trustworthy sources, including peer-reviewed studies, board-certified medical experts, patients with lived experience, and information from top institutions.
Resources
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  2. Asplund CA. The Importance of Sleep for Health and Athletic Performance. Sports Health. June 2024.
  3. Smith AG et al. Clinical Trials, Potential Mechanisms, and Adverse Effects of Arnica as an Adjunct Medication for Pain Management. Medicines. October 2021.
  4. Kim M et al. Effects of Lavender on Anxiety, Depression, and Physiological Parameters: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Asian Nursing Research. 2021.
  5. Szajkowski S et al. Foam Rolling or Percussive Massage for Muscle Recovery: Insights into Delayed-Onset Muscle Soreness (DOMS). Journal of Functional Morphology and Kinesiology. June 2025.
  6. Sokary S et al. The Therapeutic Potential of Matcha Tea: A Critical Review on Human and Animal Studies. Current Research in Food Science. November 23, 2022.