With December only a few days away, many of us are in full holiday mode. That means decorating our homes, baking, gathering with friends and family and of course, gift giving. And whether you have one or many people on your list, deciding what to get each recipient can be a difficult task— until now. Unlike clothing and food, the majority of health and wellness related gifts are universal, one-size fits all gifts that anyone will enjoy. So whether you have 2, 12 or 22 people on your list, check out the list below for affordable gift ideas that will not only put a smile on the recipient’s face, but that will also benefit their health and wellness too.
THE GIFT OF IMPROVED FLEXIBILITY AND MOBILITY
You don’t have to be an athlete to enjoy the benefits of stretching. Stretching has proven to be beneficial for anyone who works at a desk all day, performs repetitive tasks, experiences joint stiffness or who may be experiencing reduced mobility. Really, stretching is for everyone. And while stretching can be done using nothing but our body, there are also many affordable pieces of equipment that can help people of all ages achieve the best stretch possible.
FOAM ROLLERS – $20-$50
Ranging in size, shape and colour, foam rollers are an inexpensive piece of equipment that can take a person’s stretching to the next level. It can not only elevate basic stretches, but it can also allow the stretcher to target specific muscles that may need additional stretching. Foam rollers can be found at almost any sporting goods or general department store and typically range from $20-$50 depending on their size, shape and material.
MASSAGE BALLS – <$10
Sometimes, a foam roller isn’t enough to reach those pesky, smaller muscles. If that’s the case of your gift recipient, or if you know they already own a foam roller, massage balls can be a great addition to their stretching equipment. Massage balls work in a similar way to foam rollers, but because of their much smaller size, they’re able to target tough-to-reach muscles. Massage balls can be found in an array of colours and sizes and are sometimes even accompanied by a free exercise guidebook. Can’t find a massage ball? Try looking for a lacrosse ball as an equal alternative. They’re just as durable, inexpensive and colourful, but are sometimes more readily available.
RESISTANCE BANDS – $10-$20
Have someone on your list that you know hits the gym on a regular basis? Resistance bands might be the gift for them. Resistance bands, as you can guess, provide resistance for a variety of stretches and allow the user to achieve a deeper, more beneficial stretch. They’re generally made of rubber and come in a variety of different tensions to suit everyone’s needs. And depending on the band and tension weight you purchase, it can also be used during exercises like pull-ups and dips to help build strength. Resistance bands can be found in most sporting goods stores and are typically sold individually (although, sometimes available as a set).
MASSAGE ROLLER – $20+
Looking to spend a little bit more or know someone who would much rather stretch their muscles using as little effort as possible? Then we highly suggest searching for a massage roller that fits your needs. Unlike a foam roller, massage rollers are a handheld tool that can be used on the couch, at your desk or virtually anywhere. They’re often a long skinny rod with two handles and can come in a variety of configurations. These tools are ideal for loosening muscles and are especially great for areas like your calves and quads. You can find massage rollers in a variety of places including, sporting goods stores, health and beauty stores, department stores and even home stores.
THE GIFT OF STRESS-RELEASE
For recipients who need a hand unwinding, relaxing or relieving stress, stress-relief gifts are a great option. They come in the shape of a variety of different products and are perfect for at home or in the office.
ESSENTIAL OILS – $20+
Essential oils have been growing in popularity over the last year. And while many people are still skeptical of their ability, they’ve been known to help users achieve a variety of different feelings. They can help you fall asleep, help you feel more energized and of course, help relieve stress. For the person on your list who could use a helping hand when it comes to relieving stress, an essential oil diffuser might just be what they need. They’re available in a variety of sizes, shapes and designs to fit any room’s décor and can be found for as low as $20. And for the person on your list who already owns a diffuser, the oils themselves are also available in gift packs for as low as $20 too.
CANDLE – $5+
Similar to essential oils, candles also come in a variety of different scents designed to help achieve various feelings. So why choose a candle over an essential oil diffuser? Two reasons. For starters, candles are a great way to show someone you care without the need to spend a lot of money. You can find them for around $5-$10 and can expect them to last quite a while. Secondly, unlike essential oils, candles provide warmth. And yes, your recipient’s home or office is probably heated, but candles offer a unique heat that can help people feel more relaxed, less anxious and of course, stress-free.
TEA
Nothing beats curling up on the couch with a warm mug of tea. And for some people, this is how they release the stress built up from a busy day. If that sounds like someone on your list, why not look into getting them tea with unique flavours designed to aid stress release? Tea is available in a variety of different flavours intended to help different things and starts at just $5-$10 for 50g (approximately 20 cups of tea). Better yet, you can also find gift sets from many of the major tea brands for around $20 that let your recipient enjoy many different flavours.
YOGA – $15+
Yoga is an ancient exercise that uses breathing, meditation and specific body positions to help one’s health and relaxation. So if your list happens to include a yogi, then a yoga mat, or better yet, a gift card to their favourite yoga studio might make a perfect gift. Yoga mats come in a variety of different designs and are relatively inexpensive, while yoga sessions, on the other hand, vary depending on the studio.
STRESS BALL – $5+
Another great idea to give the gift of stress-release this season is a stress ball. These can be found at a variety of different stores and are incredibly inexpensive yet incredibly beneficial. They come in a variety of different shapes, colours and sizes and all you need to know is your recipient’s favourite colour when purchasing.
THE GIFT OF GOOD HEALTH
If none of the gifts above sound right for the person on your list, then might we suggest stopping into our Guelph office and purchasing a gift card and the gift of good health? You can purchase a gift card in any domination you wish, and it lets your recipient, with the help of our team, decide what would benefit them most. You’re giving your recipient the gift of good health and the chance to live their life unhindered by pain, discomfort or conditions they may be experiencing.
If you have any questions regarding any of the gift ideas discussed above or would like a brand, product or store recommendation, we encourage you to contact us by phone, email or on social media. Our team is extremely knowledgeable when it comes to health and wellness and would be more than happy to help you find the perfect gift for that special someone.
