When I was growing up, last-minute holiday shopping was part of the fun of the season, but now I can’t think of anything fun about standing in long lines! I’d much rather shop in my pj’s at home in my pj’s while sipping an eggnog latte, then use the time I would have spent driving from store-to-store doing . . . well, anything but that.
If you like to keep things low stress, save time, and buy thoughtful gifts that friends and family will love, I’ve put together this 2024 gift guide for you. It includes many of my favorite (and most well-received) gifts through the years, plus a few that are on my wish list this year.
Gift Guide For Women ^
Whether it’s for your mom, sister, best friend, favorite aunt, or another cherished woman in your life, there’s a little something here for everyone.
Oh, and this year I’ve divided this category into different interests so that you can easily find meaningful gifts for the person you have in mind. 🙂
Gifts for a Spa-Like Retreat ^
1. Natural Sea Body Sponge – This ethically harvested sea wool sponge helps create a rich, creamy lather and is much softer than synthetic loofahs.
2. Towel Warmer – Elevate your loved ones daily routine with cozy, warm bath towels. PJs and blankets can also be warmed for a little added luxury. If you’re looking for a different style, this one is another good option.
3. Natural Terra Cotta Pumice Stone – Made from Indus River clay, these durable pumice stones are the perfect at-home pedicure tool. One side removes dry, rough skin and the other smooths and polishes. I recommend pairing it with homemade whipped body butter or organic shea butter so that your recipient has something to moisturize with once they’ve completed their session.
4. Ionic Facial Steamer – This steamer creates negatively charged ionic microdroplets of water, which can penetrate skin much more deeply than regular steam. I actually bought it to support open, clear sinuses, and it totally works for that. However, it also makes my skin feel deeply hydrated, and serums absorb better after a session. It’s now an essential part of my weekly skincare routine.
5. Hair Fork – Helps hold messy buns in place while adding a bit of style. I’ve had a wood one similar to the above picture for years, but this wood flower is also lovely.
6. Santal Black Everyday Body Oil – This is the perfect finishing touch for any self-care session. Many perfumes hide endocrine disruptors and other harmful ingredients under the catchall label of fragrance, but this light everyday fragrance and body oil lists every one. It’s got a smooth aroma with sandalwood, vanilla and black pepper notes.
Gifts That Nourish
7. Alitura Skincare – Andy Hnilo, an actor/model whose jaw was broken in five places when he was hit by a car, developed these products to help his scars heal. They did an amazing job. I especially like the night cream, which includes stem cells from the edelweiss plant and grass-fed colostrum. It’s incredibly rich and luxurious, and a little goes a long way.
8. Toups & Co Tallow Balm – Tallow is uniquely compatible with our skin’s biology, leaving it supple and nourished after use. My friend Emilie makes the best whipped tallow balm I’ve ever tried. It smells amazing, and she’s carefully formulated the essential oils in each blend to be safe for use on the face and with children.
9. Magnesium Lotion – Magnesium is often called the “magic mineral” due to its ability to relax achy muscles, mitigate the effects of stress, and calm the mind by supporting the production of the neurotransmitter GABA. This study also suggests that magnesium may improve sleep quality by increasing melatonin levels and decreasing cortisol levels. Unfortunately for some people, magnesium oil can cause an itchy or uncomfortable sensation when applied in undiluted form. This lotion blends skin-calming ingredients like shea butter and argan oil with high potency transdermal magnesium, making it perfect for sensitive skin.
10. Aura Cacia Foam Bath, Tangerine & Grapefruit – This powdered bubble bath is made with safe ingredients and smells amazing.
11. Coconut Milk Bath – Add a few tablespoons (or more) for a luxurious, deeply hydrating bath soak experience. Comes in a branded box that works well for gifting.
Gifts for The Wellness Lover
12. Pranamat ECO Massage Mat (Save 10% with HEATHERDESS) – Handcrafted with thousands of pointed lotus flower spikes, this acupressure massage mat may not look like the most comfortable thing to lie on . . . but that’s the whole point! In two clinical trials, Pranamat was shown to relax muscle tension, improve microcirculation, facilitate oxygenation of tissues, stimulate a healthy metabolism, relieve pain, regulate sleep, and make regular users feel happier and more energetic. I bought one recently and literally can’t wait for my daily session.
13. Scoria Yoga Mat (USE CODE MP10 TO SAVE 10%) – Beautiful and comfortable, this is the mat I use almost every day. It’s made with a natural rubber backing that’s bonded to the cork grains using water-based eco adhesives. They’re a great alternative to many popular “non-toxic” yoga mats that are actually greenwashed products full of undisclosed chemicals.
14. Oura Ring – This smart ring can be worn in airplane mode, making it EMF-free. It analyzes your heart rate variability (HRV), blood oxygen levels, body temperature and other metrics in order to provide personalized insights on stress, physical activity, sleep and more. It even offers period prediction and can integrate with the Natural Cycles app to fully track your cycle.
15. Heat Healer Infrared Sauna Blanket (SAVE 20% WITH CODE MP20) – Sauna blankets are perfect for people who want a portable, compact, and more affordable way to get a deep, therapeutic sweat going. Many years ago I bought a large sit-in sauna and I’ve been using several times a week ever since, but I recently left it behind during an extended road trip. Rather than completely miss out on my daily sessions, I bought a Heat Healer to take with me and LOVED it. Here’s my full review.
16. Apollo Neuro (SAVE 10% WITH CODE MP10) – This wearable device uses subtle vibrations (haptic feedback) to help our brain and body feel safe, resulting in benefits like reduced stress levels, better sleep, and improved focus. It was developed by neuroscientist and psychiatrist Dr. David Rabin MD, PhD and has been validated by “gold standard” double-blind randomized placebo controlled crossover trials. I’ve written about my experience with the Apollo Neuro here, and you can see all the studies that have been completed or are in progress here.
17. Ear Seeds – Created by licensed acupuncturist Elie Goldschmidt, L.Ac., ear seeding is a needle-free way to influence the nervous system in ways that – depending on the specific points use – is thought to support skin clarity, ease feelings of stress and anxiousness, support focus, deepen sleep and more.
Gifts for Cozy Days & Nights
18. Nui Organics – This company makes gorgeous, comfy and temperature regulating Merino wool and Merinosilk clothing. My dream closet is filled with everything they make in a deep, stunning hue called Deep Sea, with some Dill and Plum-hued tanks and loungewear sprinkled in. These pieces are made to last.
19. Beeswax Candles from Natural Sloth (Save 10% with code MP10) – Handmade in my hometown with eco-friendly wooden wicks, sustainably sourced beeswax, coconut oil and essential oils, these candles are absolutely beautiful. They come in a wide variety of blends like Spiced Coffee, Cozy and Ginger Spice, and are a great alternative to paraffin candles that release carcinogens like toluene and benzene into the air.
20. Organic Cotton Muslin Blanket – Muslin cotton is lightweight, breathable, making it perfect for keeping warmth close to the skin while still allowing air to circulate. Its texture also becomes softer with each wash. Bearaby makes a throw in beautiful colors that’s one of their bestsellers for good reason. Naturepedic also makes a super-soft version with a relaxed, heritage design in several size options.
21. Waterless Essential Oil Diffuser – This waterless atomizer works without heat, which can damage the therapeutic properties of essential oils.
22. Bearaby Weighted Blanket – These handmade weighted blankets are made with a gorgeous chunky knit that’s as beautiful as it is functional. Bearaby uses organic cotton, and their blankets are washable. Though I purchase 99.9% of the products I recommend on this site, Bearaby gave me one adult blanket and one kids blanket to test. Both are well-loved in our house, and we highly recommend them. You can see them all here.
23. Fontana Candles (SAVE 15% WITH CODE HEATHER15) – With scents like Pure Vanilla, Spiced Latte, Fireside, and Peppermint Bark, Fontana Candle Company makes something for everyone.
24. Branwyn Gift Card – This company makes comfy and flattering first layer essentials and activewear that are BPA and PFAS forever chemical-free. Most bras contain painful, lymph restricting underwires and chemical-laden fabrics than can easily transfer toxins into our skin due to long periods of contact time. Even underwire-free options like sports bras come with serious concerns – a recent study found that many contain BPA. My non-toxic merino wool bralette from Branwyn is one of the most comfortable bras I’ve ever owned, period. It’s super soft and lasts 2-3 times longer than organic cotton bras. It’s unlined so I only wear it with thicker tops, but even with that it’s still an absolute favorite. They offer gift cards in $25, $50, and $75+ denominations.
25. Himalayan Salt Tealight Candle Holder – I have a few of these are they are absolutely stunning when lit. The light of these beeswax tealight candles infuses the top part of the candle holder with a soft glow that feels so warm and cozy.
26. YnM Weighted Blanket – Research shows that weighted blankets calm our sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight mode) and increase parasympathetic activity (rest and recuperation mode). They can be used during the day to increase a sense of well-being or at night for better sleep. Made with soft 100% Oeko Tex cotton and glass beads, this blanket comes in several sizes and weights for kids and adults. It can also be paired with a machine washable duvet cover for easy cleaning. Click here to read more about the benefits of weighted blankets and how to choose a weight.
Gifts to Sip & Savor
27. Chemex Glass Coffee Maker – For the person who enjoys a really good cup of coffee, this is a great gift. As I shared in my post on why I switched, it brews coffee that is much less acidic and more smooth, and there’s literally no plastic involved. Don’t forget filters!
28. Kasandrinos Olive Oil – Unlike many store-bought options that are diluted with cheap oils like canola, this is authentic olive oil pressed in Laconia, Greece. The flavor is amazing, with slight nuances from season to season. Anyone who appreciates a fresh, flavorful drizzle of high quality olive oil will love it.
29. Stagg Electric Gooseneck Kettle – This beautifully designed stainless steel electric kettle is perfect for the pourover coffee or tea lover. It quickly heats water to the precise temperature setting that’s chosen, and it comes in lots of colors.
30. Raaka Chocolate – Made with unroasted cacao beans so you can taste the natural fruity flavor of cacao, this chocolate uses wholesome ingredients to create amazing flavor combinations. All the cacao they use is single-origin, certified organic, and fair trade.
31. Truffle Salt – Most truffle salts are made with a blend of natural and synthetic flavorings, but not this one. Instead of skimping on the truffles and trying to increase the flavor profile with 2,4-dithiapentane, HEPP’S uses 100% Sicilian natural sea salt and 6% real black truffles. It’s delicious on french fries, popcorn, steak, and pasta . . . even scrambled eggs!
32. Purity Coffee (SAVE 20% WITH CODE MP20) – For the houses that run on laughter, love, and coffee. This is the only coffee I’ve found that is both organic and screened for mycotoxins and pesticides. Also, they use a unique roasting process that maximizes antioxidants while minimizing stuff your body doesn’t want like acrylamide.
Kitchen Gifts That Will Delight
33. Luvele Yogurt Maker – I’ve lost count of how many batches of yogurt I’ve fermented with this cute retro-style yogurt maker. It does an amazing job of heating evenly, which is key for batch consistency and creaminess.
34. 360 Cookware – Last year, after a lot of research on the safest options, I bought a 360 Cookware Set and I’m so happy with it! They use surgical grade stainless steel and every piece comes with a lifetime warranty.
35. Cookbook Stand – Give your loved one the gift of FINALLY keeping their place in a cookbook during meal prep! This stand keeps books on the right page, and it can also serve as a tablet stand for digital recipes.
36. Kitchen Counter Sprout Growing Kit – Broccoli sprouts are a potent source of a phytochemical called sulforaphane, which plays a huge role in detoxification, antioxidant protection, and cellular resilience. It activates the Nrf2 gene pathway, which is sometimes called the “longevity pathway.” With this kit and these seeds they can be easily grown at home along with other sprouts that are rich in B vitamins (including folate), plus C, K, minerals, enzymes, antioxidants and fiber. I particularly like alfalfa sprouts.
37. A Healthier Home Cook: Whole Food Recipes, Techniques, and Tips for Families That Want to Eat A Little Less Toxic– Anyone that has ever been frustrated by overly-complicated, labor intensive healthy recipes will love this new book from Shawna Holman of A Little Less Toxic. It’s full of simple-to-follow, delicious and nutritious recipes that deliver on flavor. Everything is gluten-free and most are dairy-free.
38. Maestri House Milk Frother – Use regular or plant-based milk to make low, medium or high froth foam for lattes, cappuccino, fancy hot cocoa, moon milk and more.
39. Glass Electric Tea Kettle – Made with sturdy borosilicate glass, this electric kettle comes with a stainless steel infuser that allows the recipient to make tea directly in the kettle. It holds a lot, too – up to 14 cups!
40. Reusable Bowl Covers – Plastic wrap is convenient, but it’s also bad for us and the planet. Fortunately, there are alternatives, like these reusable covers that can stretch to fit a variety of sizes/shapes. The ones I linked to are made with a washable, breathable and waterproof PUL fabric – the same fabric that is used to make cloth diaper covers due to its safety profile. If you prefer a cotton option, these are super cute.
41. Clearly Filtered Water Pitcher with 3 Extra Filters (Save 10% with WELCOME10 on your first order) – Give clean water for a year! This is my top countertop filter recommendation in terms of performance and price. Unlike most pitcher filters which barely do more than improve water taste by removing chlorine, it’s certified to remove 365+ contaminants – more than any other model I researched – all while keeping beneficial minerals intact.
Gifts for Budding Herbalists & Plant Lovers
42. Minima Loose Leaf Tea Infuser – This mug is perfect for infusing loose leaf spiced chai and dried herbs. I love using it to brew my evening cup of relaxing passionflower tea.
43. Tabletop Glass Vase – Gorgeous and functional, this set is perfect for propagating plant cuttings or creating a dinner table centerpiece.
44. Making Herbal Preparations 101 Course from Herbal Academy – Perfect for the curious beginner herbalist, this course covers the four basic categories of herbal preparations, 12 everyday safe herbs to use at home, and 33 DIY herbal recipes from teas and tinctures to salves and oils. It will guide your recipient through 7 convenient and compact lessons that are chock-full of hands-on activities, videos, and helpful herbal charts to guide them on their way to making herbal preparations at home.
45. Glass Tea Kettle – Any time I post about the benefits of a specific herbal tea on Instagram, I almost always receive as many comments about the kettles I use as the herbs themselves. I love this one because it can be used on the stovetop to brew for blooming teas, loose leaf teas that plump up when steeped, and fresh herbs and/or citrus. One important thing to know about all stovetop safe glass teapots, though, is that they’re intended to be used over MEDIUM heat, not HIGH heat. For a full list of glass teapots I recommend check out this article.
Gifts for Journeys Big & Small
46. Essential Oil Travel Tote– I use this tote for errands and road trips – the sides are linked with little pockets that hold essential oils bottles. It would pair perfectly with a car diffuser as a gift.
47. Market Tote – This sturdy bag can be used as a grocery bag, shopping tote, or carryall.
48. Clearly Filtered Water Filter Bottle (SAVE 15% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER WITH MP15) – These bottles can “transform ordinary tap water into clean and safe drinking water by simply sipping through the straw. Wherever the day takes you, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your tap water is free from up to 99.9% of 220+ contaminants. Perfect for the gym, water fountains, restaurants, and more.”
49. Hydroflask Insulated Coffee, Tea & Water Bottle – This bottle keeps drinks hot or cold for hours and – unlike many tumblers – is dishwasher safe and easy to clean.
50. Natural Latex Travel Pillow – For the frequent traveler, this is a healthier option that’s both comfy and supportive.
51. Essential Oil Car Diffuser – This makes short errands and long road trips so much more enjoyable!
Gifts for Deeper Sleep & Better Mornings
52. Sound + Sleep SE Noise Machine– If you’ve ever tried to drown out the sound of barking dogs, loud neighbors, or other disruptive sounds, you know how helpful sound machines can be for falling (and staying) asleep. Unfortunately, as I cover in this article, white noise machines contain harsh, high-pitched frequencies that can actually raise cortisol levels, which is why many manufacturers have begun offering other (more soothing) colors of noise – particularly pink and brown. With 64 settings, the Sound + Sleep SE pretty much has it all. For a more budget-friendly option, I highly recommend the LectroFan EVO which is made by the same company. I bought it for my kids and it’s amazing.
53. 100% Silk Pillowcase – Silky smooth pillowcases are more than just a luxury . . . they can help reduce common issues associated with other fabrics. Cotton and polyester pillowcases create more friction hair than silk, leading to increased frizziness for people with wavy or curly hair. Also, for people with acne-prone skin, cotton needs to be very frequently washed because it tends to absorb oil and potentially bacteria. Silk tends to absorb less, which is why some dermatologists recommend it for acne-prone and/or sensitive skin.
54. Sleep Easy Essential Oil Set from Plant Therapy – This set comes with three calming blends – Relax, Unwind and Sleep Tight – that promote restful sleep.
55. Naturepedic Side Sleeper Pillow – This is one of the comfiest pillows I have ever used. It’s squishy yet supportive, and the amount of fill inside can be adjusted to whatever is needed.
56. Cooling TerraClay Sleep Mask from Bearaby – This silky weighted sleep mask incorporates therapeutic Terraclay in order to deliver gentle deep touch pressure (DTP) that melts away tension. It can be chilled in the freezer for an hour or more if desired.
57. Verilux HappyLight – Getting early morning sunlight is amazing for supporting mood, focus, energy levels, and deep sleep at night, which is why you’ll find my family outside at 7:30 am most days. When we can’t make that happen, though, I grab my trusty Verilux HappyLight . It allows me to bring many of the sleep supporting, mood lifting and focus/energy benefits of early morning sunlight inside as I get ready for the day.
Fitness Gifts
58. Sunny Health Row-N-Ride – I bought this machine that is a cross between a squat and a row machine and I absolutely love it. They have some videos on Youtube that your recipient can follow along with, and it folds up easily so that it’s out of the way when not in use.
59. Sunny Indoor Fitness Bike – A couple of summers ago, during a family road trip, I discovered that I love indoor gym bikes . . . there’s just something so refreshing about listening to music and letting the world melt away for a little. The main street near my neighborhood it too busy to really ride on safely, so bought an affordable at-home option that doesn’t require me to load up my bike and drive to a trail. It gets daily use in my house – we love it!
Gift Guide For Men ^
Clean Personal Care
60. Shower Scalp Massager – In addition to just feeling amazing, this scalp massager removes dandruff and helps give hair a fuller, denser, thicker look and feel. It can also be used to massage the neck and shoulder area. Fyi, I’ve tested it and it doesn’t tangle long hair, so it’s the kind of gift you can also borrow. 🙂
61. Toups & Co. Frankincense Tallow Balm – This stuff smells amazing. Tallow is uniquely compatible with our skin’s biology, leaving it supple and nourished after use.
62. Leather Toiletry Case – Can be paired with tallow balm or a collection of travel-sized essentials.
63. Mojito Beard Oil from Primally Pure – Crafted with organic ingredients, this beard oil softens scruff and moisturizes facial skin. If the fresh scent of a lime and mint-infused mojito is not your recipients style, Primally Pure also makes an Old Fashioned version that features deep woodsy and citrus notes.
Wellness Gifts
64. Oura Ring – When I realized how much valuable information I was getting from my Oura ring, I bought one for my husband. He loves it, and weirdly wherever we go other guys ask him all about the features and how comfortable it is. (Very comfortable.) Oura recently created Circles, which allows users to share their Readiness, Sleep and Activity scores with hand-selected family and friends. My husband and I can see each other’s scores in the app, so if they’re lower than usual we will check in and see what the other needs to feel better.
65. AllevaWrap ProAIr Compression Leg Massager – With 5 compression levels and 2 heat + vibration settings, this thing is perfect for recovery after a hard workout or long day of standing. I bought this for my husband last year and he uses it often.
66. Apollo Neuro (SAVE 10% WITH CODE MP10) – This wearable device uses subtle vibrations (haptic feedback) to help our brain and body feel safe, resulting in benefits like reduced stress levels, better sleep, and improved focus. It was developed by neuroscientist and psychiatrist Dr. David Rabin MD, PhD and has been validated by “gold standard” double-blind randomized placebo controlled crossover trials.
I’ve written about my experience with the Apollo Neuro here, and you can see all the studies that have been completed or are in progress here.
67. Heat Healer Body Belt With Infrared, PEMF & Red Light Therapy (SAVE 20% WITH CODE MP20) – Awhile ago, I bought a Heat Healer Infrared Sauna Blanket to take on an extended road trip, and after reading my review the company founder asked if I’d be interested in trying out their newly released body belt with Triple Threat Technology™. It took 3 years to research and develop, and combines three different therapies (infrared heat, PEMF therapy and red light therapy) to target areas of the body affected by pain and inflammation.
I already have devices that deliver all of these therapies separately, but I love the idea of combining them so I agreed to let her send us one to test. My husband and I have both tried it and agree that it’s a great option for easing muscle aches, supporting recovery after a workout, and general relaxation.
68. Shiatsu Pillow Massager with Heat – We have one of these and it’s amazing for working on the neck, shoulders, lower back, thighs and calves.
69. Massage Lacrosse Balls for Myofascial Release, Trigger Point Therapy, Muscle Knots, and Yoga Therapy – To use these, just tell the recipient to place the ball on the area with muscle tension and then lean their weight onto it. Super easy and so helpful!
70. Lifepro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun – This is a great gift for people who deal with tough muscle knots and aches. It comes with 8 interchangeable attachments that help release tension in both surface and deep tissue layers.
Gifts for Better Sleep & Brighter Mornings
71. Four Sigmatic Balance Instant Coffee (SAVE 15% WITH MP15) – Infused with adaptogens that support brain function and help the body deal with stress, Four Sigmatic powdered coffees just need to be mixed with water. My husband and I always keep a few packages stashed away in our bags – my purse, his satchel – for coffee emergencies. 🙂
72. Hydroflask Insulated Coffee, Tea & Water Bottle – These insulated bottles do an amazing job of keeping drinks hot/cold. They’re extremely durable and dishwasher safe.
73. Blue Blocking Glasses from Defendershield – Computer screens, TV’s, phones and even regular light bulbs emit blue light, which the body perceives as sunlight. Blue light exposure after sundown can suppresses the release of melatonin, which disrupts our bodies process of preparing for sleep at night. My whole family wears blocking glasses at night – they’ve definitely helped us fall asleep easier and improved our overall sleep quality.
74. Swanwick Sleep Aviator Blue Blocking Glasses – Like the Defendershield glasses mentioned above, these blue light glasses can improve sleep by filtering out melatonin-disrupting blue light.
75. Cooling Bamboo Weighted Blanket from YnM – Perfect for hot sleepers, this blanket helps calm the sympathetic nervous system (fight or flight mode) and increase parasympathetic activity (rest and recuperation mode). It can be used in the daytime to create a sense of well-being.
Outdoor Gifts
76. Solar Phone Charger – This waterproof solar charger comes with three ports so that phones can be charged simultaneously. It also has a built-in flashlight.
77. Firestarter Set – Have you ever started a fire with nothing but some kindling and striker? Me neither, but your recipient can with the überleben Zünden Fire Starter. It can throw sparks in any weather and at any altitude, and it’s designed to be carried around the neck for easy portability.
78. 100 Parks, 5,000 Ideas: Where To Go, When To Go, What To See, What To Do – For the guy that’s craving a little adventure, this National Geographic guide to U.S. and Canadian parks is perfect for planning family experiences.
79. Stainless Steel Manual Coffee Grinder – For travel, camping and hiking. Because coffee.
80. Tucktec Folding Kayak – These folding kayaks weigh just 25 lbs each and fold up small enough to fit in the trunk of nearly any car. No roof rack needed!
Travel & Tech Gifts
81. Comfy Organic Fleece Zip Hoodie – This zip hoodie provides warmth and convenience for every stage of your recipient’s journey. It’s easy to slip on and off as they move through varying environments, from cool airport terminals to warm outdoor areas, plus airplanes that range from ice bath conditions to sauna temperatures.
82. DefenderShield Phone Case – Independently tested, this phone case uses conductive, non-conductive and advanced absorption shielding materials together to block, divert, and absorb EMFs, Radio Frequency (RF) and heat radiation.
Snacks & Gourmet Gifts for Guys
83. PaleoValley Grass-Fed Beef Sticks – This is the only company in the US that uses old-world methods of fermenting so that their beef sticks are shelf stable without the use of chemicals or questionable ingredients. Virtually all other similar snack stick products use GMO corn-based citric acid encapsulated in hydrogenated oils to process their products.
84. Primal Palate Spice Blends – They say variety is the spice of life . . . I say spices add variety. 🙂 These blends are SO flavorful and come in a few different sets that will make great gifts:
- Signature Blend Trio – Adobo Seasoning, Meat & Potatoes Seasoning, and Barbecue Rub
- Best Sellers Set – Adobo, Amore [Italian], Apple Pie Spice, Barbecue Rub, Breakfast Blend, Garlic & Herb, Meat & Potatoes Blend, New Bae, Pumpkin Pie Spice, Seafood Seasoning, Steak Seasoning, Taco Seasoning
85. PaleoValley Superfood Bars – These are great for taking on hikes or as post-workout snacks. They’re made with with NO ADDED SUGAR and MORE PROTEIN than typical bars. That includes grass-fed bone broth protein that’s rich in collagen – the most abundant protein in our bodies (bones, muscles, skin, blood vessels, tendons AND the digestive system). They also incorporate healthy fats and other nutrient-dense foods like vitamin C rich acerola cherry, spirulina, turmeric and wild blueberries. I recommend the Lemon Meringue and Apple Cinnamon flavors.
Gift Guide For Teens ^
86. Ceramic Wax Melter – This is a great option for teens that love to burn candles in their rooms, and parents who want to sleep easy at night without having to wonder if the teen remembered to blow them out before bed. It creates a relaxing atmosphere and is super low maintenance.
87. Balm Squad Set – This Plant Therapy set includes four therapeutic balms: Better Than Kisses, Healing Balm, Silky Soft and Sniffle Stopper.
88. DefenderShield Phone Case – Independently tested, this phone case uses conductive, non-conductive and advanced absorption shielding materials together to block, divert, and absorb EMFs, Radio Frequency (RF) and heat radiation.
89. Troomi Phone (USE CODE MPSAVE) – Troomi is an all-in-one solution that allows parents to GRADUALLY increase phone functionality as kids needs and maturity levels grow . . . all from a super convenient and easy Parent Portal. It comes with a great camera for capturing memories with friend, access to highly vetted safe apps, group texting with approved contacts (and no one else), the ability to check email and listen to audiobooks/podcasts, and more. Back Story: I first bought a Troomi for my daughter a couple years ago, and they recently offered to send a new phone for my son in exchange for continuing to share our experience with you. Win-Win.
90. Organic Wax Melts – Beeswax melts from Natural Sloth or Fontana Candle Company pair perfectly with the wax melter above.
91. Clear Complex Facial Oil – This botanical blend supports clear, blemish-free skin without harsh chemicals or drying acne formulas. Clarifying hemp seed, toning grape seed, and skin-soothing evening primrose work together to help remove impurities, prevent breakouts, and relieve redness. It also contains vitamin E for an extra boost of antioxidants.
92. YnMM Weighted Blanket or Bearaby Weighted Blanket– Because teens may be too old to swaddle, but they need to unwind and get deep sleep, too.
93. Oura Ring – Last year I bought an Oura ring for my teen daughter. My hope was that she would be able to see the real-life impact of the wellness practices that have been part of our family culture her whole life, because one day in the not-too-distant future she’s going to leave my home and decide whether to continue these practices on her own.
After she started wearing her ring she began waking up earlier, spending more time outside in the morning, and making other adjustments to her routine . . . all with a good attitude because she can see the benefit in her Sleep and Readiness Scores.
94. Wakeup Light – Our circadian rhythms – which guide when we feel alert and when we feel sleepy – are tied to light and darkness. This wakeup light simulates sunrise, which helps our bodies body synchronize our internal clocks (which are often dysregulated due to blue light at night, etc.) so that we knows when to dial up the hormones that produce energy, and when to make the ones that help us drift off to sleep.
95. Spin Pins – These spiral hair pins keep buns from constantly sliding down.
96. Zer0 Nail Polish from 100% Pure – These polishes are free of formaldehyde, toluene, dibutyl phthalate, phthalates, formaldehyde resin and other harmful ingredients commonly found in nail polish. They’re gluten-free, too, which is not the case for all nail polishes due to the use of hydrolyzed wheat protein.
97. Online Gift Card to 100% Pure – Your recipient can pick out their preferred colors of fruit pigmented makeup, plus a wide range of natural skincare products. 100% Pure also has gift sets available.
98. Bedshelfie – Creates bedside storage without taking up floor space.
99. Unisex Organic Cotton Beanie – Lightweight and comfy.
100. Tea Tree Detox Mask from 100% Pure – Supports skin clarity without being overly harsh.
101. Ocushield Screen Protector for iPhone (SAVE 15% with MP15) – This protector blocks up to 90% of blue light emissions when applied to a device’s screen like a screen protector. Blue light can negatively impact sleep and cause eye strain, and kids are more vulnerable to the effects than adults. Unlike apps and ‘night mode’ settings, Ocushield doesn’t change the color on your screen. It’s an accredited Class 1 medical device by the MHRA in the UK. Samsung protectors are currently out of stock.
102. Natural Bath Bombs Gift Set – Handmade in the United States using high quality ingredients like organic shea butter, Dead Sea salt, kaolin clay and essential oils like eucalyptus, vanilla and chamomile, these bath bombs are beautifully packaged for gifting.
103. Amazon Gift Card – Because sometimes the best gift is the one they choose.
104. Wooden Flower Hair Fork – Helps hold messy buns in place while adding a bit of style. I’ve had a wood one similar to the above picture for years, but these metal ones look like good options, too. This one is simple and beautiful, too.
Gift Guide For Kids ^
105. Chef Junior: 100 Super Delicious Recipes for Kids by Kids – I might be biased, but this is a must-have for kids. Written by my daughter Kate along with several of her friends, it introduces basic cooking skills alongside mouthwatering recipes that kids will love. In terms of life skills, cooking is one of my top priorities as a parent. Knowing what a nourishing meal consists of and how to prepare it is essential to a growing child’s health and well-being.
106. Organic Weighted Blanket – For many kids, snuggling up with one of these feels like being wrapped in a hug, which can help calm emotions and support sleep. Check out the bottom of this article for more info on how to choose the best size and weight.
107. Fort Building Kit – For younger kids (5-7) this is a fun way to encourage imagination and problem-solving skills.
108. Clearly Filtered Water Filter Bottle (SAVE 10% ON YOUR FIRST ORDER WITH WELCOME10) – These bottles can “transform ordinary tap water into clean and safe drinking water by simply sipping through the straw. Wherever the day takes you, you’ll have peace of mind knowing your tap water is free from up to 99.9% of 220+ contaminants.” Perfect for the gym, school, water fountains, restaurants, and more.
109. Adams Healing Adventures – Whether it’s starting a healing diet or just wondering why friends have “fun” snacks that your family doesn’t eat, kids don’t always understand the “why” behind healthy choices. When they do, though, it makes it easier to embrace the process. This book from my friend and Mommypotamus site medical reviewer, Madiha Saeed, MD, follows a young boy named Adam who has asthma, allergies and eczema on his healing journey. It helps kids understand inflammation, the power of gratitude, stress management, gut health, rainbow (antioxidant-rich) foods, the importance of getting out in nature, detoxification, sleep, and the power of good foods.
110. Mini Trampoline – I bought a mini trampoline when my kids were little so that they could “get out their wiggles” on cold, rainy days. Eventually they asked for a slightly bigger one, and we still use it often for at-home workouts and lymphatic support.
111. Sensory Swing – This pod swing creates a comfy, peaceful environment for kids to play, read, or just unwind. It’s made with cotton breathable fabric.
112. Puzzle Projector That Really Works – Although it says its for kids that are 14+, I’m considering it for my 10 year old who is very good with engineering-type stuff. This amazing looking 3D Machinarium Robot looks like a good option, too, and it’s made for kids 8+. Actually, ROKR has so many options that will fascinate kids it’s probably best just to check out their whole collection.
113. Real Wood Ukulele – Last year my daughter’s interest shifted from online piano classes to online ukulele classes through Udemy. I think it’s one of the most joyful sounding instruments that can be enjoyed solo, and it’s super easy to learn.
114. Catan Board Game – My kids love this game and with over 40,700 five-star ratings on Amazon it looks like a lot of other people do, too.
115. Acorn Spinning Tops – These pocket-sized wooden spinning tops are more than just a nostalgic toy. They’re small enough to carry anywhere and offer a simple, screen-free way to spark curiosity, challenge coordination, and create little moments of play wherever your child goes.
116. Life On Earth Memory Matching Game – This is the game we knew as “Memory” when we were kids, only it has gorgeous, vibrant colors and nature-inspired scenes.
117. Q&A a Day – Ask your kids one fun question every day for a year and write down their responses. Then the next year, you ask them all the same questions and see how their responses change as they grow.
118. Piggy Paint Nail Polish – This polish comes in fun colors and is free of formaldehyde, toluene, phthalates, Bisphenol A, ethyl acetate and acetone.
119. Wobble Board – Perfect for easing restlessness during colder months when kids are stuck inside more, this wobble board supports development of the vestibular system (which is connected to both balance and the ability to regulate emotions).
120. Newtons Laws STEM Construction Kit – Kids learn all about Newton’s Laws of Motion by building working models like a catapult, a drag racer, a balloon powered plane, and more.
121. Salt Lamp Night Light – I love that these give off warm light instead of blue light, which can disrupt melatonin production and keep kids awake.
122. Strider Bike – Training wheels were the norm for most of us, but these days many parents opt for balance bikes, which are easy to ride and help kids develop the balance, coordination, strength and fine motor skills needed to transition to a regular bike. Strider was one of the first to make high quality balance bikes for little kids, and they’re still one of the most durable options.
123. Buddha Board – This “canvas” allows you to paint and then watch your art fade away like disappearing ink. My daughter selected this as her souvenir on a trip and it was such a hit.
124. Beeswax Crayons – These crayons come in a thick version (for little hands) and a thin version for older kids. They’re made with 100% beeswax and non-toxic pigments.
125. Sun Art – Kids make a “photograph” without a camera . . . and the results are beautiful! My kids have created some with leaves and ferns that are totally frameworthy.
126. Herbal Adventures: Backyard Excursions and Kitchen Creations for Kids and Their Families – If you have an interest in herbalism and want your kids to discover the edible and medicinal plants growing just beyond your front door, this is an amazing book! They’ll discover how to make homemade elderflower soda, itch-fix balm, nature’s paintbrushes, tummy tea and more. Some recipes call for fresh herbs, but it’s also possible to skip the foraging and dive into making the recipes with purchased, dried herbs.
127. Magna Tiles – These were more of an investment but when my boys were younger they played with them for hours on end each week. Because of their simplicity and ease of use, these were the first building blocks all my kids enjoyed together.
128. Perplexus – This 3D marble maze game challenges children to use spatial reasoning, motor skills, and hand-eye coordination. My son discovered it at a friend’s house and couldn’t put it down!
129. Blue Blocking Glasses For Kids – When we wind down a busy day with a movie, I make sure my littles wear blue blocking glasses so that the blue light from the TV doesn’t impair their natural production of melatonin. I want them to be able to fall asleep easily because it’s good for them . . and good for me. 🙂 My favorite brands are:
130. Natural Paints – Made with natural pigments, organic cornstarch and tree sap, these watercolor paints create beautiful, earthy colors.
131. Kids Magnesium Lotion – This “magic mineral” infused lotion is great for easing achy muscles and supporting sleep. It’s really helpful for easing growing pains, too.
132. MerinoSilk PJs – Every year I buy my kids a new pair of pajamas to wear on Christmas Eve . . . and throughout the remaining 364 days until the next year. The organic wool and silk PJ options from Nui Organics are super comfy and cute for photos.
Gifts for Babies & Pregnant Mamas ^
132. Organic Milestone Blanket – These didn’t exist when my kids were babies and I want a do-over! Basically, the idea is that the blankets have numbers on them that can be “circled” in photos using stars (and other objects) to show babies age. You take photos every month and then look at them together to see how baby has grown.
133. Hope & Henry Organic Romper – My husband introduced me to Hope & Henry organic cotton clothing a few years ago and I love all of the baby stuff. This is exhibit A. 🙂 This one is made with 100% organic cotton except for the trim. Completely adorable.
134. Love To Dream Swaddle – This blanket soothes babies while allowing them to sleep with their hands up around their head instead of tight by their side. I’ve heard great things about it from several moms, and it gets rave reviews online, too. Here’s one:
We are third time parents, and we’ve never been good at swaddling. And, who are we kidding? At Bleery-eye o’clock in the morning, who really wants to try to origami baby back into a bundle after that extreme diaper blowout? Enter Love to Dream! We looooove this swaddle! Our 5-week-old daughter has taken to it like a dream. We ordered the smaller size, and it fit all 10lbs 1.7 oz, 22 inches of her newborn self! I was put at ease knowing she wasn’t in danger of smothering like she would be with a blanket (even if it were tucked per safety recommendations, I always worry about blankets around my babies. Always.). She was cozy and comfortable. With a quick unzip from her feet up, we are able to keep her pretty cozy while changing her, so mid-nap or midnight changes haven’t been rude awakenings for her. I definitely recommend these, and will be buying more for her as she grows!”
135. EMF Protection Blanket from Defendershield – Made with organic bamboo, this blanket is a great option for pregnant mamas who need to be near a computer often throughout the day.
136. Toups & Co Shampoo + Body Wash and Baby Balm Set– This is truly the gentlest baby soap around, and the nourishing baby tallow balm is perfect for moisturizing and protecting baby’s skin.
137. The Mama Natural Week-by-Week Guide to Pregnancy and Childbirth – I love this book so much I wrote an entire article about it. It’s beautifully illustrated and written with real mamas in mind. Genevieve literally had me crying in the opening pages as she talked about her own birth experiences, and the whole book feels like a fascinating conversation instead of a list of do’s and don’ts. (Weird fact, Genevieve and I birthed our babies within 24 hours of each other, and then three years later we did it again.)
138. NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator – Okay, the whole idea behind this thing is kind of gross, but it’s one of those practical gifts that can be a lifesaver when a mama has a congested baby and can’t wait two days for one to be delivered. Congested babies who don’t sleep well lead to mamas who don’t sleep well, and babies and mamas need sleep, you know?
Wellness Gifts for the Whole Family ^
139. Heat Healer Energy Sauna With Triple Threat Technology (SAVE 20% WITH CODE MP20) – People often ask me if I could only choose one device – sauna, PEMF therapy, or red light therapy – which one I would start with. I always reply that it depends on your unique situation and goals, but with this new product from Heat Healer you can have them all. Like their sauna blanket, it’s perfect for small spaces.
140. Lourdes Hydrofix from Holy Hydrogen (SAVE $100 WITH CODE MP100) – A quick search on PubMed will show that molecular hydrogen therapy (both inhaled and sipped as hydrogen water) seems to have a lot of benefits along with an excellent safety profile. In Japan, where most of the research on molecular hydrogen has been done, it’s actually used in hospitals. (1)
A few years ago I tried molecular hydrogen therapy (both inhaled and hydrogen water) at a biohacking conference. It was fun but I didn’t know much about it, so over the years I have researched on and off while looking for a high-quality home machine. Since most of the research is done in Japan, the best machines are Japanese, which is pretty great unless you’re trying to read instruction manuals.
A couple of years ago I finally bought the Lourdes Hydrofix from Holy Hydrogen, and I’m so happy I did. It is manufactured in Japan – and the main manual is in Japanese – but the amazing guys at Holy Hydrogen have created English videos and instructions that make using it super easy. Keep an eye out for a full review in 2024.
141. Red Light Therapy – RLT has been shown to be helpful for collagen production, improving skin clarity, optimizing hormone levels, facilitating muscle recovery and more. Block Blue Light panels are well made, use the optimal wavelengths, and are competitively priced.
142. Clearlight Infrared Sauna (Mention or use code MOMMYPOTAMUS for a discount and FREE Aroma One with any purchase over $88 ) – If you have the space and want a sit-in sauna that you can share with friends and family, this is hands-down one of the best wellness gift my family has ever invested in. My husband and kids use it almost every morning to start their day, and I use it at night to wind down. You can read more about the benefits of sauna therapy here and my review of the sauna I have in my home here.
143. Whole Body Vibration Plate – My first experience with whole body vibration therapy was at a wellness clinic, and it made such a difference in my overall well-being that I bought one when I returned home. It supports detoxification (via lymphatic drainage) and calms the sympathetic (fight or flight) nervous system. It can also be used to amplify the effectiveness of exercise, and my husband and I use it for at-home workouts.
144. Ice Barrel or Cold Plunge – Last year I bought a DIY ice bath setup from a local biohacker that was moving and couldn’t take it with him. As someone who grew up in Texas and now lives in Florida because I love to be warm, I was skeptical that I’d be able to force myself to stick to a plunge routine. There are so many benefits, though, so I commited to starting slow and working my way into several-times-per-week sessions. Now, I actually look forward to them!
Nothing puts me in “chill mode” more than a plunge when I wrap up my to-do list for the day, and morning sessions help immensely with focus and clarity. My DIY setup is great, but if someone hadn’t already built it I would have gone with a pre-made option like the affordable and compact Ice Barrel or the more luxurious Cold Plunge.
145. Lifepro Sonic Handheld Percussion Massage Gun – This is a great gift for active families. It comes with 5 interchangeable heads that help release tension in both surface and deep tissue layers.
146. Blushield EMF Protection (SAVE 10% WITH MP10) – One day I was playing a game I call “Woo or True” with a Global Clinical Research Scholar from Harvard Medical School. Basically I asked him for his thoughts on a bunch of different wellness modalities – whether they’re legitimate or unlikely to be helpful. Toward the end of our conversation we got onto the subject of EMFs, and he recommended Blushield to me.
Unlike EMF-blocking technologies (which I still use on my phone and in other situations), Blushield is an active system that “produces coherent frequencies within the human responsive range, based on nature-mimicking mathematical algorithms.” I’ve covered before how our brains can entrain with certain frequencies, and according to Blushield our bodies also do the same thing. When coherent frequencies are available alongside the chaotic ones produced by non-native EMFs, Blushield says our bodies will preferentially tune into the coherent ones. Full review here.
147. Solo Smokeless Outdoor Fire Pit – For sitting under the stars and roasting homemade marshmallows.
Stocking Stuffer Ideas ^
148. PaleoValley Superfood Bars – I keep a stash of these on hand for day that I don’t have time to make healthy snacks from scratch. They’re made with with NO ADDED SUGAR and MORE PROTEIN than typical bars.
That includes Grass Fed Bone Broth protein that’s rich in collagen – the most abundant protein in our bodies (bones, muscles, skin, blood vessels, tendons AND the digestive system).They also incorporate healthy fats and other nutrient-dense foods like vitamin C rich acerola cherry, spirulina, turmeric and wild blueberries. I recommend the Lemon Meringue and Apple Cinnamon flavors.
149. PaleoValley Grass-Fed Beef Sticks – This is the only company in the US that uses old-world methods of fermenting so that their beef sticks are shelf stable without the use of chemicals or questionable ingredients. Virtually all other similar snack stick products use GMO corn-based citric acid encapsulated in hydrogenated oils to process their products. Our favorite is the jalapeño flavor.
150. Beekeeper’s Naturals Propolis Throat Spray – For daily immune support.
151. Pact Apparel Organic Socks – For women and men.
152. Magnetic Bookmarks – These are great for marking recipes in cookbook or saving a spot in a favorite novel.
153. Scented Room Spray – These essential-oil infused room sprays come in a wide variety of scents including Christmas Tree, Vanilla Woods and Rose.
154. Olive Wood Honey Dipper / Drizzler – I’ve had this one for years and love it. Made with sustainable wood.
155. Anti-Frizz Bamboo Detangling Comb – Natural materials like bamboo or wood glide through hair more easily than plastic, making them a great option for detangling and smoothing hair.
156. Aura Cacia Foam Bath (Set of 3) – These individual powdered bubble bath packets come in three scents: Lavender, Tangerine & Grapefruit, and Cinnamon & Ylang Ylang. They also make versions for kids in scents like lavender and tangerine.
FREE Ebook: DIY Body Care Gifts Made Simple
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Sources
- Motoaki Sano et. al. (2018) Promising novel therapy with hydrogen gas for emergency and critical care medicine
