December is here. While it can be easy to get lost in the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, we are shifting our focus to being present. After all, the holidays are about spending time with those who matter most, not all of the details that we get lost in.
With this in mind, we created a mindful holiday gift guide – a catalog of thoughtful gifts focused on mindfulness and slow living. Each item invites the recipient to unwind, become centered, and focus on self-care. Here are our top picks:
Calming Bath Rituals
Is there anything better than a warm bath after a long day? We don’t think so.
The sound of the filling tub, the warmth of the water, and the stillness of the space creates the perfect environment for rest and relaxation. Begin with our Surf Soak; seaweed and kaolin clay rejuvenate the skin while refreshing aromas will remind them of a day at the beach.
While they’re soaking in their oasis, ensure they’re equipped with a Natural Sea Sponge. These sustainably harvested sponges act as a gentle exfoliator on the skin and extend the life of any body wash.
Plant Therapy
Did you know that growing indoor plants can help boost creativity, mood, and energy? It’s true! Plants can also help reduce stress levels – making them an ideal gift for anyone in your life.
There are a plethora of benefits that come from interacting with plants and nature. Although it’s not always possible to take time to go outside, bringing the greenery inside offers many of the same perks. Plus, the time spent nurturing plants can act as a peaceful retreat from a busy week.
Soothing Skincare
We talk a lot about the importance of rituals and relaxing routines in our everyday lives. That’s because our daily tasks, especially during the holiday season, can quickly become overwhelming. We believe in the power of the ritual to transform someone’s mindset, even if only for ten minutes a day.
Give the gift of a relaxing ritual with a mindful skincare item. Our Calm Balm is a multipurpose moisturizer that can be used on the face, body, and hair. The relaxing blend of vanilla, chamomile, and lavender essential oils helps to soothe the senses.
Mindful Reading Material
Books have always been a welcome way to turn off the outside world and get immersed into a new environment or new way of thinking. They also serve as a tool to disconnect from technology, an action that is proven to help with peaceful sleep.
This holiday, consider giving your loved one a book on mindfulness and connection. Some of our favourites include:
- Wherever You Go, There You Are by Jon Kabat-Zinn
- The Untethered Soul by Michael. A Luiz, and
- The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Alternatively, gift a pack of mindful affirmation cards. These easy-to-digest cards can serve as helpful daily reminders to take a step back and breathe.
Aromatherapy Moments
Scent is one of our most powerful senses. It can evoke memories of years past and have a profound effect on mood and emotion. The use of essential oils dates back thousands of years to when Ancient Egyptians would burn incense made from wood and spices.
While essential oils can be added to a routine in several ways, we recommend gifting a blend to encourage relaxation, such as Waters or Woods. These revitalizing essential oil blends can be diffused during the day for a mindful moment or before bed to encourage restful sleep.
Meditative Yoga
Yoga is often promoted as a form of exercise to keep people physically healthy. While that’s true, it is also an incredible tool for mental health. According to the American Osteopathic Association, yoga can:
- Increase flexibility
- Boost strength and muscle tone
- Improve energy levels
- Help manage stress
- Sharpen concentration and focus
- Create mental clarity
Perhaps they’re new to yoga? A yin or restorative yoga class can be both approachable and rewarding. Even better? Go with your loved one and enjoy the class as well.
Looking for a personalized holiday shopping experience? Reach out to us on Instagram @tofinosoapco and tell us about the person you’re shopping for. We’ll make customized recommendations based on their likes and lifestyle.
Warmest wishes for a happy holiday season,
Tofino Soap Company Team
Resources
How and why to use essential oils, The Ohio State University. https://health.osu.edu/wellness/integrative-healing/essential-oils
The benefits of yoga, American Osteopathic Association. https://osteopathic.org/what-is-osteopathic-medicine/benefits-of-yoga/
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