Happy Holiday Season, Warrior! Last year I published a pretty extensive list of gifts for different goals. There are many seasons of life that warrant wellness related gifts, though, and even though it isn’t specific to the holidays, I thought I’d talk a bit about how I roll with those and give you some ideas.
I have a big extended family and over the years we have scattered as life takes each of us on our own paths. We tend to be invested in the others and while most of my family is, shall I say louder, about it than I am, I am always thinking of my them. My husband and I also moved away for college and then moved again several times before settling where we are. This means we also have friends in different places.
Just like most of us, we have watched as cousins start families, younger generations move towards adulthood, and various loved ones struggle with health issues. Truthfully, my family lives a bit removed from everyone else and that can be very lonely. But something that helps me, hopefully as much as it helps the recipient, is receiving a gift basket that lets them know they are cared about. So, below is a non-exhaustive list of occasions and types of things I send.
College or Military Deployment
Leaving home to move to college can be a tough transition. New habits, responsibilities, friends, and navigating roommate situations can teach just as much as in classroom learning. It can also mean homesickness. Warm socks, tea, or hot chocolate are comforting. A deck of cards, Monopoly Deal, popcorn, and snacks provide an opportunity to bond and make new friends. A small charging station makes use of a small, shared space. A gift card and first aid supplies are practical (and usually needed). Throw in something they love from home or a handwritten note. They are sure to be the envy of the dorms.
Wedding or House Warming
These are big ones to the people involved and, if like me, it is hard for you to get to the celebration, I am going to let you in on my never fail gift. Not to toot my own horn, but I’ve given this one a dozen times and every single time, I get compliments from more than just the recipient. Buy a bunch of kitchen utensils (if there is a registry, do the right thing and buy off of it). Grab a nice pitcher or bowl to hold them. Stay with me, I get that this sounds boring. Find a recipe that uses each of the utensils, print or write them out on fancy note cards and attach each to the utensil. Bonus points if the recipe is one of your own that you can pass forward. For example, when I get a zester, I give my recipe for biscotti because it uses lemon zest. Practical gift and they can hopefully make memories, too.
New Baby or Adoption Celebration
Who doesn’t love to celebrate a new baby? Again, if the parents have a registry, start there. Maybe it’s the hyper practical side of me, but I don’t advise getting baby clothes. Honestly, most parents have (or will quickly learn) their own preferences on style and type. I am the person who gifts something that will make mom and dad’s life a bit easier. And then throw in a DoorDash or UberEats gift card. Or pay for a maid service for a week. Oh, and diapers. Don’t forget those.
If the parents are adopting, make sure you are getting something age specific for the kiddo. If the child’s background is different, something small that honors that shows that you care enough to appreciate them as they are. A blank photo or memory book to fill. Journals for all parties of appropriate ages. Adoption can be tough for everyone and having a simple outlet is helpful. A board game, puzzle, or joint activity that the new family can bond over is another thoughtful add in.
Divorce and End of Relationship or Partnership
We do much better celebrating highs than we do supporting during lows. But life has plenty of both. Couples going through an end of a romantic relationship need different things, so you’ll have to gauge where your loved one falls on the spectrum. Additionally, if the end of the relationship involves two friends, make sure to tread lightly and that neither friend gets preferential treatment (unless the split is brought about by factors that fractured a friendship as well). Anything that provides stress relief is usually appreciated. Good, neutral gifts might include replacements for things (i.e. kitchenware), meal prep services, and a spa or golf outing. Don’t forget to provide comfort items for any kiddos involved and a board game or movie for bonding.
Business partnerships can be equally devastating when they end. Again, each person involved may need something different, but the idea is as above. Use your best judgement and provide help and comfort from afar as best you can. In both situations, a note with an offer to call once a week at a designated time and be a listening ear may be the most appreciated.
Cancer or Other Health Issues
This is one I wish I wasn’t so good at sending. But I put together my eighth this past fall and almost cried when I got to Target without my list and realized I didn’t need it. Not about me, though. This basket is about trying to anticipate someone else’s needs when they (and their family) might be completely overwhelmed. If intensive treatment is involved like chemo, socks, hats, lip balm, lotion, and hand sanitizer are musts. I also add ginger candies and peppermint tea for nausea. Another type of tea, coffee, and candy for comfort. Some sort of distraction: items for a hobby, a puzzle or coloring book, books to read, whatever. DoorDash or UberEats gift cards. And items that will allow for family and friend time that are low energy input. Board games, accoutrement for a movie night, and the like. I also try to send something for each family member; legos or craft kits for young kids, journals for older ones, stress relief for the spouse or main caregiver.
In the age of internet connectivity, most people cite that they feel lonelier than they ever have. The point of the wellness basket is to be a real connection with those who you may not have the opportunity to see in person. To boost your Social Health as well as their Mental, Emotional, and Physical Health. There are other great lists out there in Google land, but the point here is that the best gift you can give is to remind someone they are cared about.
On that note, thank you so much, Warrior, for being here this year. Especially as it brought some changes to this space. There will be more coming up and I’ll be taking a few weeks to put those into effect as well as celebrate the holiday season.
