Too often, gift shopping feels like taking a shot in the dark. What do they need that they don’t already have? Will they actually use what I picked out? And most importantly, does it comes with a gift receipt? These are just a few of the questions that pop into my head when I’m trying to pick out the perfect gift for someone on my list. What I’ve learned over the years is that unless you’ve pressured them to tell you what their heart really desires or you happen to be a mind-reader, there’s no way to guarantee that the gift will hit. That is, unless you already own and use the gift idea in question.
That brings me to the topic of today’s gift guide: the best wellness gifts that I can personally attest to. As someone who spends her free time nerding out on workout recovery techniques, binge-listening to The Huberman Lab podcast, and going through lots of trial and error to find the best combination of supplements to take, I have a bit of expertise on the subject. Luckily for you, I’ve put together a guide to the best wellness gifts I personally swear by and use on a weekly, if not daily, basis. Plus, a few more I haven’t tried yet but would be over the moon to unwrap this holiday season.
These will make such a great stocking stuffer. Don’t be alarmed by the intense color—a few drops of chlorophyll will supercharge your water to help with everything from cell renewal to digestion.
I love to do intense workouts and I run a lot. I break out my Theragun to get deep into my muscles to release tension and knots (which, let’s face it, is often) and it’s been such a game changer in my workout recovery.
I was skeptical before trying out AG1 since I’ve cycled through several greens powders in the past, but after hearing rave reviews from friends and podcasters alike, I finally bit the bullet and ordered my first packet, and I’ve never looked back. It’s packed with so many good ingredients that I can’t pinpoint which one has the biggest impact, all I know is that I can feel a difference between the days I take and the days I don’t—the boost of energy and clarity is unparalleled.
Since the greens powder above tends to be particle-y when I mix it with a spoon, I use it with an electric whisk for the smoothest finish that honestly makes it taste so much better. Instead of just getting an electric whisk, though, I’m upgrading to this tumbler that blends protein and supplement powders in a single-serving container for easy drinking.
It’s taken years, but I’ve finally got my gut-healthy supplement routine down to a science. Now, when anybody asks for a suggestion on what to start taking, I always point them in the direction of Hum and specifically, of Skin Squad. It’s a blend of pre and probiotics that has made the biggest difference in my overall digestion and gut health (you need both for probiotics to be effective, but most supplements only offer the latter). Despite that it’s marketed as a clear skin supplement, it’s all about the gut benefits for me.
As cliché as it sounds, staying hydrated is the one thing that can solve most minor health issues. Dry skin? Drink more water. Bloated? Drink more water. Tired? Drink more water. And the best way to actually increase your water intake is by drinking out of a bottle or tumbler that makes drinking water actually fun and easy. The internet’s favorite tumbler is, of course, the Stanley 40 oz that keeps cold drinks ice cold, comes with a straw, and fits into a car cup holder. It might just be the last water bottle you ever have to buy.
Running is downright fun—yeah, I said it—when I’m wearing Hoka’s Clifton sneakers. Since making the switch, I’ve been going on longer and more frequent runs thanks to these super-thick soles. I’ve gone through at least four pairs of these Hokas and I’ll probably keep buying them as long as I’m hitting the pavement.
You can’t tell me anything when I’m wearing my Lululemon zip-up. Nothing makes me feel like I’m that girl more than zipping up this slim-fitting shell post-workout.
Pilates girlies, rise. No more weird-looking no-show socks that you panic-bought at the studio’s reception desk and can’t match to any of your workout outfits. These high crew socks feature sticky soles so you can wear them with your sneakers after class and stay on-trend.
Speaking of staying hydrated, I’m obsessed with this specific electrolyte powder. The formula is the cleanest I’ve found with no added sugars or artificial coloring, plus it adds a does of magnesium, the one mineral we could all stand to take more of.
I just got this set of glasses and it’s never been more fun to make sure I’m drinking rnough water throughout the day.
Getting the glasses set above with this beautiful carafe would be a genius move that I can’t imagine anyone would be disappointed to receive.
Hot yoga classes are not the same when I’m not practicing on this mat. It’s specifically designed to soak up sweat so even during the hottest of classes, you’ll never lose your grip.
Switching from an arm band to a waist belt is one small change that has made all the difference in my runs. To me, $29 was a small price to pay for not having to deal with the bulk of running with my clunky iPhone 12 Plus on my arm or worry about my keys and card flying out of my pockets.
This pulsating brush is designed to supercharge your hair and scalp routine. I use mine to gently exfoliate my scalp in the shower and mix in my shampoo well. They say that maintaining a healthy scalp is key to creating the perfect conditions for hair growth.
Barry’s is one of the hardest and most effective workouts, and trust me, I’ve tried them all. When I go multiple times a week, I feel my strongest and my best. There’s nothing like the feeling of pushing yourself when you’re in a room with twenty other people doing the same. Sorry, but solo gym time just doesn’t hit the same.
Alo’s body polish is my ultimate bodycare staple. It’s a blend of coconut, meadowfoam, and sesame oils that doesn’t just exfoliate, but also moisturizes to reveal the most radiant, smooth skin as soon as I step out of the shower. It’s also infused with glow-boosting amla antioxidant superberries for an uplifting natural citrus scent.
Following up post-shower with this body oil is the most heavenly routine of all time. Agent Nateur’s blend of luxurious oils absorbs quickly for a satin finish that never feels sticky or oily. It’s enriched with vitamins, antioxidants, and natural organic compounds that leave my skin firm and ultra-hydrated.
Fun fact: 50% of Americans are deficient in magnesium, and it just to happens to be one of the most important things our body needs to daily function. While some supplements can make little difference, taking magnesium for me is palpable: I sleep better and sorry for the TMI, but I’m also more regular. If there’s one thing I think everyone and their mother should take, it’s this.
Vetted by dermatologists and gynecologists alike, Fur Oil is godsend for anyone who shaves, you know, down there. It’s a unique blend of lightweight oils like Grapeseed, tea tree and jojoba specifically designed to soften pubic hair and clear pores for fewer ingrowns.
The three crystal pieces in Jia Jia’ Take Care Set are made from rose quartz which is known as the stone of compassion. Whether you’re reaching for the gua sha tool or face roller to stimulate blood flow and decrease puffiness in the face and neck, the rosy stone set is the most luxurious and chic way to do it. Even the pieces themselves will look good displayed on a bathroom counter, though the properties of the selenite bowl are also thought to charge and cleanse the stones.
Because cannabis is synonymous with self-care and wellness in many circles, why shouldn’t the storage and accessories that go along with it be just as fun? That’s the thinking that led Miami-based artist Robyn Blair Lazer to combines contemporary design with a functional storage solution for tubes, carts, batteries, and any other consumables or accessories.
