Whether it's nourishing the body, soothing the soul or sparking creativity, giving the gift of well-being can support health and happiness for those on your holiday list. From tried-and-true favorites to a few innovative new finds, here is my go-to guide for wellness-focused gifts to delight and inspire.
Evergreen favorites
Infused oils
One of my favorite gifts to give is homemade infused olive oil. It's elegant, yet still so simple and functional. For a quick DIY, heat olive oil with a few sprigs of rosemary or a handful of chili peppers. Once it cools, pour into glass bottles that seal with a swing-top latch closure. If you're short on time, buy pre-infused oils and pour into pretty glass bottles. Personalize each bottle with a note (I use a gold paint marker) and finish with a festive ribbon for a thoughtful, kitchen-ready present.
Sweetly spiced nuts
A sweet treat without the sugar rush, my candied cashews and macadamias are a perennial hit. Toss with a swirl of coconut oil, a pinch of salt and a dusting of Swerve plant-based zero-calorie sweetener, then roast to perfection. Packaged in little mason jars or festive tins, they make a charming gift, perfect for cozy winter evenings.
Peppermint scones
From our very own Eat Fit Cookbook, the lemon scone recipe is a classic. We put a holiday twist on these gluten-free goodies with a hint of peppermint extract and a sprinkle of crushed natural candy canes. Present them in a holiday-themed takeout box lined with parchment paper, paired with a recipe card for a gift that's both sweet and practical.
Good-for-you cookbooks
Give the gift of a hands-on culinary adventure when you pair a cookbook with the ingredients for one of its recipes. Of course, two of our favorites include "The Eat Fit Cookbook: Chef Inspired Recipes for the Home" and "CRAFT: The Eat Fit Guide to Zero Proof Cocktails." Shop for both, or find a list of retailers near you, at EatFitCookbook.com, where you can use promo code ADVOCATE for 10% off.
Gifts that keep giving
The R8 deep tissue massager
Featured by Wirecutter -- a product testing, review and recommendation resource from The New York Times -- as a staff-favorite foam roller alternative, the R8 Deep Tissue Massage Roller by Roll Recovery might 'look like a medieval torture device,' but it offers deep tissue pain relief with precision. It's not for the faint of heart; in fact, it might feel too intense to some. But those who love deep massages and myofascial release work will likely adore this device's targeted pressure.
Give the gift of creativity
Encourage creativity with a gift certificate for a local pottery, painting or jewelry-making class. It's a wonderful way to support local artisans while giving your loved ones a chance to try a new creative outlet that can be both therapeutic and rewarding.
Seasonal juice subscription
Why not refresh their routine with a subscription to a local juice bar? Select a vibrant mix of freshly pressed juices that can be customized to their taste preference. It's like delivering a dose of sunshine and vitamins right to their doorstep.
A gift that grows
Inspired by a lovely yellow rose bush -- a symbol of friendship and joy - gifted to me by my best friend Amy, I love to give a gift that grows, such as a citrus plant or a rose bush. Citrus plants can brighten any indoor space during the winter, thriving in a sunny window, while rose bushes, hardy and resilient, can thrive outdoors year-round in many climates.
This holiday season, let's make wellness a gift that everyone can unwrap. It's not about the things we give, but the thought and love we put into selecting them that truly makes them special.
Molly Kimball, RD, CSSD, is a registered dietitian with Ochsner Health and founder of Ochsner's Eat Fit nonprofit initiative. For more wellness content, tune in to Molly's podcast, FUELED Wellness + Nutrition, and follow @MollykimballRD and @EatFitOchsner on social media.