In the spirit of the season, here are some ideas for gifts to help loved ones achieve healthier outcomes, mental wellness and improved fitness:
Gifts for mental health
Apollo Wearable Designed by neuroscientists and physicians, this device delivers gentle vibrations
to improve activity in the vagus nerve. Higher vibrations boost energy and focus, while lower ones reduce stress and promote sleep, enhancing your overall well-being. ($299.99) apolloneuro.com
Aromatherapy diffuser De-stress with calming essential oils like lavender, chamomile or eucalyptus, or use an energizing citrus essential oil. (from $19.95 on Amazon)
Weighted blankets are known to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. (from $25 at major retailers)
Classic puzzles and games like Scrabble, Sagrada, sudoku, crosswords, word searches and chess are great for exercising your brain. “440 Games, Puzzles & Brain Boosters Specially Designed to Keep Your Mind Sharp” ($19.99 on Amazon)
Calming apps for stress management, mindfulness and building resilience can be useful tools for mental health. Headspace ($69.99/yr subscription) uperBetter ($24.99/yr subscription)
Sleep tracker apps monitor and improve sleep patterns to help you boost your sleep score. Rise Science ($59.99/yr subscription)
Gifts for physical health
Blenders or juicers are great for smoothies, soups or fresh juices, making healthy eating easier.
Ninja® Professional Plus Blender DUO® with Auto-iQ ($109 at major retailers)
Meal kit subscription With customizable meal services, have healthy food delivered straight
to someone’s door. HelloFresh (from $45.96, varies on subscription) hellofresh.com and Blue Apron (from $58.95, varies on subscription) blueapron.com
Air purifiers improve indoor air quality, and are especially helpful for allergy sufferers. Levoit Core® 300-P Air Purifier (from $79.99 on Amazon)
Smart scale Tracks weight, body fat percentage and other health metrics, and connects to your smartphone and wearable devices. (from $54.99 at Amazon)
Blue light blocking glasses reduce eye strain and improve sleep for those who spend long hours in front of screens. (styles and sizes start from $95 at Warby Parker) warbyparker.com
Smart jump ropes track workouts and calories burned, making it possible to exercise virtually anywhere. (from $19.99 on Amazon)
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