ultimate gift guide (1)

2026 Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide (For Everyone On Your List!)

As a recovering type A personality, I love planning ahead. I create checklists for holiday planning and I usually try to buy gifts early. This gives me something nice to look forward to, and on a practical level ensures everything gets here on time!

Many companies offer holiday deals earlier than ever to allow for extended shipping times, so I wanted to take advantage of these as well. Even if you’re a last minute gift giver, there’s sure to be something on this guide for everyone on your list. 

While our family tries to stick to experiences instead of stuff as much as possible (here are some of my favorite ideas from past years), it’s always nice to receive a thoughtful and well chosen gift.

This 2026 holiday gift list has all of our favorite gifts we’ve given and received as a family over the years. As much as possible, these gifts are eco-friendly and limit plastic whenever possible. They’re also largely natural, organic, or health-promoting.

My 2026 Holiday Gift Giving Guide: Natural + Eco-Friendly!

I’ve included my favorite gifts for every member of the family, age group, and interest level, so keep scrolling if you need ideas for a specific family member. They go in rough age order (from Mom and Dad to kids/babies) and then special interest gift ideas are below that (for the chef, the grandparents, white elephant gifts, etc).

I’ll start with some of my top picks!

2026 Top Gift Picks

There are so many options in this ultimate gift guide that I wanted to start by highlighting a few of my favorites. These are brands that I love for a variety of reasons and many will work for various ages and stages of life. Plus many of them offer exclusive discounts for Wellness Mama readers.

Be sure to also check out my Black Friday and Cyber Monday guides after Thanksgiving as you can often find even steeper discounts on my favorite brands.

1. BON CHARGE

I love their infrared sauna blanket as an easy way to sauna anywhere, plus their PEMF mat. They also have their red light toothbrush that combines two of my favorite things: red light therapy and oral health. Try their red light face mask for clearer skin or their red light hat for better hair and scalp health. 

They have so many other great products though, you’ll want to look around! Get an automatic discount when you click here.

2. Toups & Co

I love so many of their products, especially their original tallow balm. And what I love most about them is their story. Like myself, they started small with creating their products in their own home. Toups & Co is still family-owned and operated by the Toups family.

They have clean, simple ingredients that really work. I’m really picky about what I put on my skin and give to my kids, but I also want products that work. That’s why Toups liquid foundation is one that I use on repeat. Or check out any of their other amazing products, like deodorant, serums, soap bars, and more.

3. Annmarie Gianni

I use the Aloe Herb Cleanser and the Anti-Aging Serum the most, but they have a fabulous line of skincare products. Their ingredients list meets my strict standards and feels amazing on my skin. I also love giving their trio sample out as gifts and stocking stuffers.

Annmarie Gianni uses thoughtfully crafted organic and wildcrafted ingredients that go beyond what many of us can make in our own kitchens. As much as I like making my own skincare products, I make them a lot less now that there are such great options out there like this. For the holidays you can get three serums plus a FREE Anti-Aging Facial Oil sample for 69% off. Plus you’ll get free shipping and a 30-day money-back guarantee.

Gifts for Her (That She Won’t Just Pretend She Loves)

As kids, we always got my mom new kitchen gear as gifts. I remember feeling a little guilty because my brother and I got toys and fun gifts. I always thought she got the short end of the stick just getting kitchen items that she used for us. Then, I became a mom myself and developed a love for cooking. Now I get just as excited about new kitchen essentials!

This list includes some of the best practical (and some pampering) gifts for moms, wives, sisters, and best friends.

  1. Annmarie Gianni Skincare – Their trial pack (66% off) is a great stocking stuffer and a great way to try their products. I love their cleanser and the anti-aging serum!
  2. Gift Card – Let her get (almost) everything she wants with a gift card. There are tons of different options here for many different stores. 
  3. Real Plans Membership – My biggest time saver. This plans all of my meals and shopping lists and can handle allergies, bulk prep day, and more!
  4. Shiatsu Massage Pillow – Seriously rivals an actual massage for half the price.
  5. Hydro Flask Water Bottle – The water bottle I use that keeps water cool (or hot) for days.
  6. Everbella – Their collagen tastes just like caramel and is a delicious way to get better gut health, skin, and hair. And Everbella’s new Essential Growth Hair Serum is a natural way to grow thicker, healthier hair. 
  7. Purity Coffee – If you’re looking for a perfect cup of joe, look no further. Team this up with a coffee maker and you have a perfect gift for any mom, wife, or best friend!
  8. Wake-up Light Gentle Alarm Clock – Wake up gently to gradual light and sound
  9. White Himalayan Salt Lamp – She’ll enjoy the clean looking design and soothing warm glow at night from these beautiful lamps.
  10. Blue Light Blocking Glasses – I wear these after dark for better sleep (avoiding blue light after dark helps melatonin levels). There are some fun colors and patterns to play with.
  11. 10,000 Lux Light – Feel blue in the winter? I use this super-bright light to keep my cortisol levels healthy.
  12. French Press Coffee Maker – Make wonderful coffee with this classic method. (And see above for the perfect coffee to use with this).
  13. Beam Drinks – Gift mom a better night’s sleep with Beam’s healthy, relaxing drinks in a variety of delicious flavors. Their drink mixes feature nootropics, adaptogens, and other benefits for sleep, brain health, and more.
  14. Instant Pot – Revolutionize dinner! This electric pressure cooker makes roasts in about an hour and turns tough cuts of meat into deliciously tender meals. Also doubles as a yogurt maker or slow cooker. 
  15. Grown-up Coloring Book and Markers – Coloring isn’t for kids anymore and studies show it may reduce stress levels. Try a “grown-up coloring book.”
  16. Music – I love to fill our house with Christmas music this time of the year. Whether it’s on while we decorate or open presents, it’s a must-have for our family. 
  17. A good book – Just off the top of my head… maybe The Wellness Mama 5-Step Lifestyle Detox or The Wellness Mama Cookbook? Ok, I’m biased, but it’s a great way to have all of the best recipes and health hacks on the site at your fingertips.
  18. Our Place – I love their Always Pan, an all-in-one pan that makes cooking and cleanup a breeze. They also have a wide variety of healthy cookware, bakeware, and their Wonder Oven – a non-toxic air fryer/8-in-1 cooker. Or try their new Dream Cooker to pressure cook, slow cook, and more.
  19. Spring & Mulberry – Not only are these chocolate bars beautiful, but they’re delicious and naturally sweetened with dates. Make anyone on your gift list happy with this one! Use code wellnessmama for a discount.

Gifts for Him (No Ties or PJs on This List)

I’ve always had the most difficult time finding good gifts for the men in my life. These have been some of their favorite gifts in recent years and they might be perfect for the guys on your list too. Also, check the lists below for more specific ideas for the guys who travel a lot or who love the outdoors!

  1. Magnetic Wrist Band – Holds nails and screws for the handyman.
  2. Viva Rays Circadian Glasses – These 3-in-1 Circadian Glasses, help harmonize artificial light day to night for better sleep and energy.
  3. Leather Toiletry Bag – This spacious buffalo leather bag is a great gift for the guy who loves to travel.
  4. Rumble Roller – Deep tissue massage with foam rollers. 
  5. Meat (and anything else!) Spices – Laila Ali (daughter of the great Muhammad Ali) has created an amazing line of spice blends. The GOAT seasoning was inspired by the way her father, the legendary boxer, preferred his favorite cheeseburger. Its a favorite in our kitchen.
  6. Lifestraw or Sawyer Water Filter – Survival water filter that fits in your pocket.
  7. Saddleback Leather – These high quality leather items come with a 100 year warranty. Offering shoes, wallets, backpacks, and more. 
  8. Comfy Slippers – These felted wool slippers keep feet warm while wicking away sweat and neutralizing odor. Plus they’re fair trade and ethically sourced.
  9. Heat Proof BBQ Gloves – For the man who likes to grill, these gloves will protect his hands.
  10. Smart Wool Socks – Warm but not sweaty and they keep feet dry. Great for hiking or everyday use.
  11. Wine Aerator – Pour wine through this to improve flavor.
  12. 60-day Lantern for Camping – A really long-lasting lantern for the outdoorsman who loves to camp.
  13. A new razor – Alitura is one of my favorite brands for skincare and their high-quality razor shaves perfectly and is great for sensitive skin.
  14. YETI Rambler – This stainless steel and vacuum sealed large mug keeps things cold or warm for hours.
  15. Hydro Flask Insulated Water Bottle – Insulated water bottle that keeps water cold for days.
  16. Defender Phone Case or Laptop Shield – Protect him from EMFs when using electronics. The Heat Shield is perfect for those who frequently use their laptops on their lap and need a layer of protection.
  17. Tactical Pen – More than just a pen, it works in all conditions and can break a car window if a person is trapped.
  18. ENO Hammock – Portable hammock that fits in a small bag and is great for travel and camping.
  19. Tactical Backpack – For the outdoorsman, this bag holds everything he could need.
  20. NFL Sports Coasters – These stainless steel coasters are a great gift for that sports guy who has everything.
  21. Kettle Bells – An easy, portable workout solution. Or any of the other items on my fitness favorites list.

Gifts for Older Kids & Teens

My older kids have gotten harder to shop for, but these gifts all got their seal of approval!

  1. Buddha Board – A relaxing way to paint with just water (it evaporates and you can paint again).
  2. Spikeball Travel Set – They can take this one to their friend’s house or on trips.
  3. Archery Set – My kids have loved these GBG archery sets and they’re created for kids by kids. They have some helpful videos on their website as well.
  4. Balance Board – A fun balance board for better agility and to help engage full body strength. 
  5. Spa Headband set – For teen girls. 
  6. Learn to Embroider – This kit teaches them how to do a variety of embroidery stitches.
  7. Book light – This rechargeable book light encourages reading. Plus it can block blue light for better sleep. Or try this clip on book light that uses amber light.
  8. Kanoodle – A brain teaser puzzle that kids will love. 
  9. Satin Pillowcase – She’ll wake up with less frizz and breakage with a breathable, comfortable satin pillowcase.
  10. Leather Journal – A beautiful leather journal for sketching or journaling.
  11. Japanese Puzzle Box – These beautiful puzzle boxes are a unique way for older kids to keep valuable items safe and fun to learn.
  12. Rubik’s Cube – The 1980s called, but we told it we are keeping the Rubik’s Cube. Older kids love learning to solve this.
  13. Star Wars Legos – Popular among big kids and teens with dozens to choose from.
  14. Build Your Own Programmable Robot Kit – This was a favorite with my oldest. Build a robot and program it!
  15. Grown-Up Coloring Books – Coloring isn’t just for little kids anymore. These “adult coloring books” are very detailed and studies show coloring is relaxing.
  16. Boogie Board – Reusable board that encourages doodling and drawing.
  17. Amazon Fire – An affordable tablet with a lot of capabilities.
  18. Runaway Alarm Clock – Does your teen have trouble waking up? This alarm clock runs away and keeps making noise until caught!
  19. Natural Makeup Brushes – If your teen is old enough to wear makeup, these natural brushes are great!
  20. Multiplug Wall Adaptor – Your teen can charge multiple devices at once.
  21. Collapsible Duffel Bag – Great bag for short trips that collapses to a tiny size.
  22. Cozy Slippers (for teenage girls) – Super comfy and stylish, barefoot style slippers!
  23. Cash inside a Money Maze Puzzle Box – Give money so they can get what they like, but make it fun by hiding it inside this puzzle cube.
  24. No Crease Ponytail Holders – These are gentle on hair and don’t leave a crease. Or I hear that Scrunchies are back in style!
  25. Travel Hammock – Have an outdoorsy teen? These travel hammocks collapse small and are awesome.
  26. Lounge wear – Does your teen love comfy clothes? Get them some organic loungewear or PJs from Pact.
  27. Teens Cook Real Food e-Course – Give the gift of quality time and kitchen skills to boot! This course was life-changing for our family.
  28. Push up bars – These wooden bars won’t slip or wobble for workouts.
  29. Charging dock – Handcrafted wood holds their phone and includes a non-electric amplifyer for music and podcasts.
  30. Watercolor brush pens – These are watercolor brushes on one end and fine tip markers on the other. Perfect for coloring in a mindfulness coloring book.

Gift Ideas For Younger Kids

There are certainly more options to choose from when looking for kid’s gifts, but over the years I’ve learned to steer away from 1) lower-quality plastic items that break easily (and aren’t good for us or the environment) and 2) toys/gifts that only facilitate one activity and get old quickly.

These are a few of the gifts I’ve found in recent years that have survived the durability test, encouraged creativity, and my kids have enjoyed the most:

  1. Gym 1 Indoor Doorway Gym – My kids’ favorite Christmas gift of all time. It’s a gym that mounts in a door frame and they use it every day.
  2. Snap Circuits – A really neat kit that lets kids learn about electricity by building different types of basic machines like a fan, a radio, etc.
  3. Art Kit – A favorite among my girls. This kit contains markers, paints, colored pencils, and more.
  4. Flower Press Book Kit – Kids can create their own stationery, cards, and more with the flower/leaf press kit.
  5. Mini Trampoline for Indoor Play – We’ve had a trampoline in our house for years and it’s great for cold or rainy days. Rebounding (bouncing) is also great for adults!
  6. Yoto Player – This screen-free player is designed especially for kids to listen to books, podcast episodes, music, radio, and more by simply inserting a card in. There are over 1,000 options or you can make your own cards. It’s rechargeable and the Bluetooth is optional so you can leave it off.
  7. Wooden Twig Colored Pencils – Wooden colored pencils made from twigs. Good size for younger kids just learning to write and draw.
  8. Wooden People and Craft Supplies – My kids loved making their own little wooden dolls with these.
  9. Wiggle Car – My little kids loved this ride-on toy that teaches balance.
  10. Natural Paints – Made from natural earth pigments.
  11. Microscope Kit – My oldest loved looking at hair, dirt, and all kinds of other things in this microscope.
  12. Sherwood Player – This subscription player gives kids unlimited access to over 5,000 wholesome audiobooks, podcasts, low-stimulation shows, and books that encourage creativity. Use the code wellnessmama10 for a discount.
  13. Bath Tub Crayons – These beeswax bath crayons for toddlers are handmade in New Zealand with New Zealand beeswax and food-grade, non-toxic pigments. The jumbo crayons are perfect for toddlers, kids, and children from 2 years old onwards.
  14. Beeswax Crayons – Jumbo crayons made with natural beeswax and food grade colors.
  15. Wooden Doll House – Great for ages 4-8. Fits smaller dolls.
  16. Little Passports – This subscription service tailors to your child’s age and the collection they would most be interested in. (For parents, you can filter by your budget!)
  17. Hiya Vitamins – My littlest kids love their tasty vitamin subscription and I love that its free of junk and fillers. 
  18. Stainless Steel Play Kitchen Pots and Pans – My daughters used to play kitchen with these for hours.
  19. Beginner Piano Keyboard (and free Hoffman Academy Lessons) – These are a great way to get the kids started with music.
  20. Boogie Board – A reusable writing tablet that encourages creativity.
  21. Sun Art – Fun educational craft idea that kids love.
  22. Kendama Game – Fun interactive game that encourages movement.
  23. Weighted Blanket – Not just for kids, but a soothing gift that helps kids get into a restful state and has demonstrated benefits for sleep.
  24. Sensory Swing – If you’re looking for a sensory swing to help your child relax and de-stress, this is the swing for them. They’ll want to spend hours in it!
  25. Kids Cook Real Food e-Course – Give the gift of quality time and kitchen skills to boot! This course was life-changing for our family.
  26. KiwiCo – Subscription boxes of fun for every age and interest. Everything from art to geography to cooking and engineering. 

Gifts For Babies (and Expecting Parents)

There are literally thousands of options for gifts for babies, but many have endocrine-disrupting plastics or never get used. With nearly two decades of parenting and six kids, these are the gifts, toys, and gear that made the cut.

  1. Pregnancy Affirmation Cards – I love these sweet cards that encourage pregnant moms!
  2. Organic Mattress Cover – Protect baby from mold and allergens in mattresses.
  3. Organic Cotton Crib Sheet – Soft organic sheet for the crib.
  4. Baby Bouncer – This can be a lifesaver during busy days and it doesn’t even need batteries.
  5. Dreamland Baby – Sleepers, weighted sleep sacks, and more to help little ones fall (and stay!) asleep. Use the link for a discount.
  6. Naturpedic Mattress – Along with healthy bedding, get your new little one a non-toxic organic mattress from Naturpedic. They also offer options for adults and kids of all ages. 
  7. Organic Muslin Swaddling Blankets – My favorite blankets that are perfect for swaddling or nursing.
  8. Snot Sucker – Not as gross as it sounds and a lifesaver if baby is sick!
  9. Food Grade Silicone Fruit Teethers – A favorite of my babies.
  10. Hape Wooden Toys – I love these high-quality wooden toys!
  11. Ergo Baby Carrier – A great baby carrier that’s comfortable for mom or dad too.
  12. Organic Newborn Booties – Babies always manage to lose socks, but these stay on and keep toes warm.
  13. Manhattan Toys Rattle and Clutching Toy – Little ones love this engaging wooden toy.
  14. Baltic Amber Teething Necklace – May help soothe teething pain.
  15. Natural Rubber Teething Toy – The only toy my baby preferred to my finger when teething got bad.
  16. Organic Cotton Teether – An organic cotton and wood teething toy option.
  17. Hair and Body Foaming Baby Wash – Fabulous smelling baby wash and shampoo without the junk!
  18. Wooden Animal Toys – Adorable and durable stackable wooden animal toys.
  19. Canopy Nursery Air Purifier – This compact and cute air filter is specifically designed for baby’s room. 
  20. I also have over 60 baby and toddler gifts on my favorites list here.

Gifts For the Chef or Foodie

Does someone in your life love to cook (or eat)? These gifts make spending time in the kitchen so much fun!

  1. Stainless Steel Coffee Percolator – No plastic, no junk, just awesome coffee that stays warm for hours in this all-stainless percolator.
  2. Blendtec or Vitamix – both are amazing blenders that will last for years!
  3. Stainless Steel Immersion Blender – Great for sauces, smoothies, blending things in a pot or pan and so much more.
  4. Yogurt Maker – Homemade yogurt tastes so much better than store-bought and is simple to make.
  5. Ice Cream Maker – Make any kind of ice cream: dairy-free, sugar-free, etc.
  6. Crock Pot – A great slow cooker that meets safety standards for lead and other contaminants. 
  7. Instant Pot – This electric pressure cooker has almost replaced our slow cooker and I use it at least three times a week.
  8. Crinkle Cutter – So the kids can help cut food for meals.
  9. Stainless Steel Bowls – Great for mixing, serving, and storage.
  10. Spiral Slicer – Make vegetables into noodles with this spiral slicer.
  11. Stainless Steel Straws – Replace disposable straws forever with these steel straws.
  12. Mason Jars + Sprouting Lids – Use mason jars to grow your own sprouts.
  13. Kombucha Brewing Supplies – Homemade kombucha tastes so much better and you can flavor it any way you want.
  14. Dehydrator – Preserve foods with a stainless steel dehydrator.
  15. Xtrema Cookware – My standby scratch-proof ceramic pans that I’ve used for years.
  16. Our Place – Non-toxic cookware and bakeware that I also love. These come in fun colors for any kitchen theme.
  17. Solid Wood Utensils – These inexpensive utensils are great for cooking. They’re also made without glue or any toxic additives found in some wooden spoons.
  18. Stainless Steel Large Baking Dish – These have been a lifesaver when cooking for large get-togethers with family and friends.
  19. Glass Electric Tea Kettle – Make tea in seconds with this glass electric tea kettle.
  20. Salt Block for Cooking – I love cooking fish, meat, and even baked goods on a salt block for amazing flavor.
  21. Premium Milk Frother – If you want to spring for an unusual (and more pricey) gift, this milk frother makes coffee shop worthy froth for coffee.
  22. Spice Set – These super high-quality spices were created by Laila Ali (boxer Mohammed Ali’s daughter). They come in ready-made blends to make flavorful cooking easy.
  23. Thrive Market Membership – Know someone who is a connoisseur of great food (with real ingredients)? Gift them a Thrive Market membership so they can have the pantry of their dreams for less, all year.
  24. Primal Kitchen – They offer the healthiest condiments, sauces, dips, and more with great flavor. 
  25. Four Sigmatic or Purity Coffee – Two of my favorite healthy coffee brands for the discerning coffee drinker.
  26. Pique Tea – With plenty of tea options these are my favorite to have on hand. We’ve had the founder on the podcast and are impressed with the level of purity and testing they have for their teas.
  27. ButcherBox – Give the gift of 100% grass-fed beef, free-range organic chicken, crate-free pork, and wild-caught seafood. We have a monthly subscription and enjoy their filets and ground beef.
  28. Vital Choice – Similar to the above, this food subscription features high quality, wild caught seafood.
  29. Kasadrinos Olive Oil – I use olive oil a lot between cooking, using on salads, and anywhere in between. Kasadrinos is the only olive oil I trust and anyone with a love of cooking (and eating!) will taste the difference.
  30. Sip Herbals – The robust flavor of coffee without the coffee beans. These herbal coffee alternatives are delicious!

Gift Ideas For the Grandparents

My parents live nearby and are involved in the kids’ lives. I always struggle with what to get them that somehow says “thanks for everything you did for me all of those years and thanks for being just as awesome with my kids!”

We usually give them something handmade from the grandkids, but these are some other ideas that have been a hit. (Some of these are also ideas for this year, so Mom, if you’re reading this… don’t read past here.)

  1. Gift Card – The perfect gift for when you’re not sure what to get.
  2. Kindle – My brother got my mom a Kindle a few years ago and she uses it quite a bit.
  3. Terracotta Plant Waterer – Perhaps not the fanciest of gifts, but very practical for anyone with house plants (I just ordered some). It upcycles a glass bottle to water a plant for weeks.
  4. OneSkin – All of their skincare products are backed by clinical studies, safe for sensitive skin, and free from harmful ingredients.
  5. Alitura – Anything from Alitura makes a wonderful gift and I’ve been using their products for years. The Santal Black is great for any Dad and their face mask and gold serum make you feel like you just left the spa.
  6. Glass Electric Tea Kettle – For tea drinkers, this electric glass tea kettle makes tea available almost on demand.
  7. Instant Pot – The grandparents love it for all the reasons we love it- faster and more nutritious meals!
  8. Daily Harvest – Give them the gift of easy, real food meal prep with a Daily Harvest subscription. 
  9. The Grandparent Book Journal – A sweet way to encourage kids and grandparents to spend time together and a beautiful keepsake of family history.
  10. Pique Tea – My Dad is a big tea drinker and I like to make sure he’s stocked up for the winter.
  11. Mixbooks – I always make a photo book for each of my kids, but I also try to make one for my parents as well.
  12. Weighted Blanket – My mom sometimes has difficulty sleeping and a weighted blanket helps improve sleep at any age.
  13. Along the same lines as above, a new sheet set can be a great practical gift! I like the sets at Olive + Crate and have been really happy with the sheets that we have from them!
  14. Or anything on the lists above that they’ll love!

“Just in Case” or Hostess Gifts

These inexpensive gifts are great to have on hand for when someone drops by with a gift or to take to party hosts. I keep several of these wrapped to give when someone brings a gift by unexpectedly:

  1. Electric Wine Bottle Opener – A fun way to open up a bottle of wine.
  2. Bag of Organic Coffee – Who doesn’t love coffee, especially when it’s organic and delivered fresh? Pair this with a hand warmer pottery mug – I love mine!
  3. Cold Brew Iced Coffee Pot/Maker – I’m a big fan of cold brew coffee and this is a great way to make it.
  4. Plant Therapy Essential Oils – Check out their seasonal oils and kits.
  5. Mason Jar Solar Light – Add some beautiful ambiance to any room with these solar lights.
  6. Natural Cheese Board – This is a great gift for anyone who regularly hosts and/or for that cheese and charcuterie lover!
  7. Pique Tea – I love carrying these teas in my purse. They dissolve in cold or hot water and are great for gut health. Sure to please almost anyone!
  8. Fontana Candles – They’re made only with coconut oil, beeswax, and essential oils for a gentle fragrance.
  9. Foot Roller Massager – This inexpensive wooden massage roller is perfect for tired feet.

Gifts For an Active Outdoor Lifestyle

One thing we all need for Christmas… less time inside and more time in nature! Here are some gifts that are sure to spur adventure:

  1. Kion – Get a delicious aminos drink and supplements for recovery after activity. Save at the link. 
  2. Camping Tent – I’ve searched for a long time for the perfect family tent, and in my opinion, this is it. The hinged door saves many arguments over who left the door open and let all the mosquitoes in. The attached screen room also gives kids a bug-free hangout (and a place to store smelly shoes!). Plus, it’s PFAS free.
  3. Kids’ Hydration Pack – This lightweight pack designed for kids is so much easier than a water bottle (and it has pockets so they can carry their own “treasures”). You could also fill the pack with some fun and practical camping gear (or a coupon for a day hike or camping overnight).
  4. Flight Log Book – Know someone who’s always dreamed about flying an airplane? Slip a gift certificate for a flying lesson into their very own flight log.
  5. Scratch-Off Travel/Adventure World Map – My favorite travel map to record our family trips, simply because it’s so nice to look at. Bonus, one less wall I have to worry about decorating!
  6. LMNT – This salty electrolyte drink is a must-have for any outdoorsman, runner, hiker, crossfitter, etc. My favorites? Grapefruit or watermelon salt! For an added gift, pair this with a Hydro Flask.
  7. Surefire Flashlight – High quality and super bright pocket flashlight.
  8. Gardening Book – The most practical, easy to follow garden book I’ve ever seen. Simple enough for beginners with plenty for experienced gardeners too. Add some non-gmo, organic seeds.
  9. Paleovalley – Our favorite grass-fed beef sticks. They come in a variety of flavors perfect for camping or hiking (or a day at the beach). You can also get superfood bars and bone broth protein here.

Funny Gifts For Dirty Santa and Funny Gift Exchanges

These are some of my favorite funny gift ideas for Dirty Santa or white elephant gift exchanges. Sure to get lots of laughs!

  1. Toilet Light – For those nighttime bathroom trips.
  2. Tree Face Decor – Dress up your outdoor friends with curious eyebrows, a mustache, and an entire face.
  3. Nap Sack Prank Box – Take a nap anywhere with this hood.
  4. Prank Pack Crib Dribbler – A fun prank for someone with a baby.
  5. “You Parked Like An Idiot” Cards – I know a few people who would actually use these!
  6. Bathroom humor – This Bathroom Guest Book (don’t forget the pen!) is sure to make your guest’s bathroom visit more fun.
  7. Bob Ross Chia Pet – Bring back the 90s with this Bob Ross chia pet.
  8. The Obsessive Chef Cutting Board – For the OCD chef.
  9. Animal Paw Socks – These socks were a hit last year! Which animal would you choose?
  10. Pooping Pooch Calendar – Yep, it’s exactly what you picture… perfect (or awful?!) for the dog lover in your family!
  11. Banana Slicer – If you’re going to eat bananas, why not slice them correctly?
  12. Cards Against Humanity – These are incredibly irreverent but will have you on the floor laughing for hours.
  13. Maybe Swearing Will Help Coloring Book and Markers – For the potty mouth (or clean mouth?) in your life ?

Family Gifts

If you’re like us and often choose family gifts that the whole family can enjoy (or enjoy better health because of), you might love these options. This list also includes outdoor activity gifts we use and love.

  1. Sauna – This is one gift that will have long-lasting health benefits. It isn’t an inexpensive gift, but one that the family can enjoy all year. If space is limited, using a sauna blanket is a great alternative!
  2. MELALIGHT – This beautiful red light sleep lamp is crafted from frosted glass and natural wood. I love that it won’t disrupt melatonin and sleep but uses precise 660 nm deep red light.
  3. Sunlighten – Another sauna brand I love (did I mention I have several saunas??). Mention Wellness Mama for a discount.
  4. Joovv Light – This hand held device is a convenient way to get the benefits of red light therapy.
  5. Higher Dose – Their infrared PEMF mat combines infrared therapy and pulsed electromagnetic fields for better recovery, more energy, and relaxation.
  6. Rapid Release – Like a chiropractor and a massage therapist built into one. This device is designed to release muscle tension and it works. I love this thing.
  7. Organic and Natural Mattresses – This was my gift to myself one year and I love my mattress. We have ones from My Green Mattress, GeliSleep, and MyEssentia (all on sale right now). 
  8. Xtrema Pure Ceramic Cookware – I got some of this cookware for Christmas years ago and have been using it since then. 
  9. Matching Organic Jammies –  Switching to organic PJs is one way to reduce chemical exposure from clothing by half. These organic jammies are our favorites.
  10. WAVwatch – Wearable sound frequency therapy the whole family can use. Supports everything from better sleep, to a stronger immune system and more. Use code wellnessmama for a discount.
  11. Daylight Computer – A tablet that’s easy on the eyes. Take notes, use apps, write… all without blue light. They also have a kid’s version. 
  12. Backyard Bags (aka Cornhole) – This is always a fun game for the backyard. Whether you have guests over or it’s just the two of you, this has been a family favorite in our house.
  13. Trampoline – Not just for kids when you consider the lymphatic benefits of jumping!
  14. Swing – My kids love this backyard swing and they could all fit on it.
  15. Slackline – Like a balance beam and trampoline in one. It encourages balance and coordination and is hours of fun.
  16. Ninjaline – Like monkey bars but tougher. A lot of people use these for Ninja Warrior training, but my kids just think it’s fun!
  17. Radiant Life Water Filter – We use their whole house water filter in our home. It’s an investment, but worth it for toxin-free water. Want something smaller? Here’s my full review of my favorite water filters for every budget. 
  18. Jaspr Air Filter – Clean air is a must in our polluted world. I like the air scrubbers from Jaspr. Use code wellnessmama for a discount. 

Natural Beauty, Health, and Home Gifts

I love making my own DIY Christmas gifts, but there isn’t always time! Thankfully there are so many great companies now making safe and natural personal care products.

  1. Wellnesse – Try some yummy Vanilla Berry toothpaste, or grab nourishing shampoo/conditioner. They make a perfect gift… or snag some for yourself!
  2. Pranamat – An acupressure massage mat that helps relieve tension and pain in the body. Use code wellnessmama for a discount.
  3. Lotion Bars – Similar to my lotion bar recipes. MadeOn is a small, family-owned company that makes all kinds of natural products up to my standards. Use code WELLNESSMAMA for a discount.
  4. Purity Woods – Their organic Dream Cream feels divine on skin and is great for all skin types.
  5. Alitura Skincare – Alitura uses organic botanicals and superfood ingredients to nourish the skin. This is serious skincare with the works: clay masks, intensive moisturizers, derma rollers, and more. Use code WELLNESSMAMA.
  6. Toups and Co Organics – They have an incredible line of clean cosmetics, tallow lotions, and even a baking-soda-free deodorant for sensitive types.
  7. Branch Basics Cleaners – I know I’d be happy to find some all-natural cleaning products (I don’t have to make) under the Christmas tree. Automatically get a discount at the link.
  8. Magnesium Oil – Spray on for relaxation, detox support, and even deodorant. I also love this magnesium lotion (two birds with one stone!).
  9. Beekeeper’s Naturals – My absolute favorite bee products! Their Propolis Spray comes in handy when I have a scratchy throat or when I’m traveling and need an extra immune boost. I also love their cough syrup and Superfood Honey and my kids love the Throat Soothing lollipops. 
  10. Kid-Safe Essential Oils – For sleep, headaches, cold relief, and more, without having to worry about negative side effects.
  11. Organics Bedsheets – My favorite organic sheet set (and I’ve tested a lot of them!) to pamper a special someone in your life. We gave this to the grandparents one year and it was a huge hit! If you’re looking for a comfortable pillow to add, I love my Wakewell pillow.

Gifts for the Book Lover

If you’ve listened to my Wellness Mama Podcast interviews, one of my favorite questions to ask our guests is if they have a book that they would recommend. I’m an avid reader and I’ve enjoyed receiving new book recommendations from guests that inspire me. Below are my favorites – some inspirational, some fiction, and some educational.

  1. Awareness: Conversations with the Masters – Real freedom comes from waking up to the ways that our conditioning, attachments, and expectations shape our experiences of reality.
  2. The Untethered Soul – You are not the voice in your headbut the awareness that notices it and realizing that changes your relationship with every thought and emotion.
  3. A New Earth – When we stop identifying with our egos, our roles, and the stories we tell about ourselves, we create space for a more conscious way of living.
  4. Meditations – A current favorite of mine by Marcus Aurelius. We can’t control what happens around us, but we can choose how we respond and our character is built through those choices.
  5. Man’s Search For Meaning – No matter our circumstances we always have control over our inner state.
  6. Chef Junior – An amazing cookbook written by kids, for kids! And yes, I may have some Mom bias, but this is a great gift for kids who either want to learn how to cook or just want some fun and easy recipes to create.
  7. The Four Agreements – One of the most popular recommendations and one that I highly recommend for everyone to read.
  8. The Obstacle is the Way – Ryan Holiday’s books never disappoint. Here he takes some of the most important aspects of wisdom and success and how to apply them in our lives.
  9. Young Forever – Bestselling author Dr. Mark Hyman understands how confusing it can be sometimes to take charge of our health. He shares all the science and nutritional insights to set the record straight.
  10. Nom Nom Paleo: Food for Humans by Michelle Tam. This is not your average cookbook! It’s hugely entertaining with lots of narration by comic characters, and best of all, my kids have loved every recipe.
  11. Make It Easy: A Healthy Meal Prep and Menu Planning Guide by Danielle Walker. Easy, grain-free recipes to get healthy meals on the table fast (without those all-day cooking marathons). See my podcast with Danielle here.
  12. 30-Day Guide to Paleo Cooking by Hayley Mason. A basic guide perfect for beginners about Paleo eating, plus a month-long meal plan and shopping list.
  13. The 4-Hour Chef by Timothy Ferriss. An unconventional but fun cookbook that teaches readers how to maximize their efforts in the kitchen.
  14. The Holistic Rx: Your Guide to Healing Chronic Inflammation and Disease by Madiha Saeed, MD – Dr. Madiha’s book offers those with chronic health conditions easy-to-follow, evidence-based approaches to healing by targeting inflammation and its underlying root causes.
  15. Rising Strong: How the Ability to Reset Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead by Brene Brown. I like how Brene walks us through something that we all need to know how to do – being brave, falling, and getting back up.
  16. The Lion Tracker’s Guide to Life by Boyd Varty – This would be a great book idea for any guy on your list!
  17. The More of Less: Finding the Life You Want Under Everything You Own – I love anything by Joshua Becker, and this book is great for anyone trying to find the joy in simplicity. Or his book, Clutter Free With Kids, is helpful for parents.
  18. The Nightingale – A fictional historical book taking place during World War II that will grab you from the beginning.
  19. For easy, entertaining reads, our team recommends The Last Thing He Told Me or Local Woman Missing: A Novel.

There’s probably a lot more that could be added to this list, but these are my current favorites. Many of these items go on sale Black Friday week, and I will list the best of those sales in this post. I hope this list inspires you and helps reduce your holiday stress.

Even More Gifts

Looking for something more specific? Here are some other gift guides I’ve put together that might spark just the right idea for someone special:

What’s on your Christmas and holiday gift list this year? What are you getting for friends and family?

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Travel skincare guide: What to pack to protect your skin on holiday

Travel skincare guide: What to pack to protect your skin on holiday

Most of us spend weeks planning what to wear on holiday but barely give a second thought to what goes into our toiletry bag. To save space, some just rely on random skincare samples.

It may seem like a harmless shortcut, but your skin could end up paying the price.

Travel can be surprisingly stressful for your skin. Hours spent in the dry cabin air, followed by sudden changes in temperature, humidity and even altitude, can throw your skin barrier off balance. Introducing unfamiliar skincare products at the same time only increases the chances of irritation, breakouts or allergic reactions.

“Deviating from our usual skincare routine when travelling could increase the severity of irritation or allergies due to the impaired recovery and changes to the skin barrier during travel,” said Dr Rachel Ho, medical director of The Skin Longevity Clinic.

While you may not notice much of a difference on a short city break, the effects become more obvious during longer trips or holidays in destinations with extreme climates. Whether you’re heading to a snowy mountain retreat, a tropical island or a high-altitude adventure, here’s how to keep your skin comfortable and healthy throughout your trip.

PACK SMARTER, NOT MORE

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Long flights from the UAE? 7 skincare essentials for holiday travel, 2025

Long flights from the UAE? 7 skincare essentials for holiday travel, 2025

Flying out of the UAE for the Christmas holidays? Before you board that long-haul flight armed with your neck pillow and Netflix downloads, let’s talk skincare. Nothing sabotages your holiday glow faster than recycled cabin air, humidity and eight hours of pretending you can sleep upright. So, even if you’re jetting to snowy Europe or chasing warmer skies, your skin deserves first-class treatment. From hydrating serums to mid-flight refreshers, these are the 7 skincare essentials that will keep you looking dewy, rested and absolutely unbothered when you touch down. Consider this your inflight beauty survival kit for 2025.

So, be prepared with these skincare essentials, and get them delivered to you as early as tomorrow with a Prime membership.

1) Best Facial Mist: Avene Thermal Spring Water

When the cabin air starts stealing every drop of moisture from your skin, this is the mist you want on standby. The 1.6 oz travel-friendly bottle slips easily into your carry-on, ready to revive your face with a wave of hydration at 30,000 feet.

Made with pure thermal spring water from France’s Cévennes Mountains, it’s naturally packed with calming minerals. If your skin turns red, itchy, or Sahara-dry mid-flight, this soothing spritz brings instant relief — especially for sensitive, easily irritated skin.

2) Best Lotion: Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Lotion

No doubt, traveling can take a toll on your skin, especially your body—which often gets overlooked in your flight skincare routine. Enter the Neutrogena Hydro Boost Gel Lotion Ultralight, which helps keeping your skin hydrated, smooth, and fresh even after hours in dry cabin air.

Formulated with skin-quenching glycerine and hyaluronic acid, this cream draws in moisture and seals it in, ideal for fighting off tight, flaky skin during and after travel. Its gel texture absorbs instantly, so you won’t feel greasy in your seat or during a layover.

3) Best Lip Balm: WishCare Ceramide Lip Balm

Say hello to WishCare Ceramide Lip Balm with SPF 50 PA+++, your must-have inflight lip saviour. This compact 5 g tube fits perfectly in your carry-on, ready to protect and pamper lips through dry cabin air and holiday sunshine. Rich ceramides lock in moisture, preventing the flakiness and cracking that long flights love to bring. Meanwhile, Kojic Acid and Niacinamide help fade dark pigmentation and even out tone, so your lips look fresh when you land. With high-strength SPF 50 PA+++, it shields against UVA/UVB rays — essential even at altitude. Hydrating, protective and perfect for jetsetters on the go.

4) Best for Dry Skin: Galderma Cetaphil Dry Skin Combo

The Galderma Cetaphil Dry Skin Combo is a solid companion for flights. The Gentle Skin Cleanser sweeps away impurities without stealing moisture, while the hydrating cream pampers dry hands, elbows, or any tight spots at 30,000 feet. Finish with the lightweight SPF cream for broad-spectrum sun protection—perfect for landing in sunny destinations or walking through glass-walled airports. Fragrance-free, non-comedogenic, and travel-ready, this trio keeps your skin calm, soft, and fully protected, ensuring you touch down looking fresh no matter how long the flight.

5) Best Hydrating Serum: Cerave Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid

If your skin rebelled every time cabin air turned dry and tight, the CeraVe Hydrating Hyaluronic Acid Serum is what you need. Lightweight yet powerful, this serum delivers a deep drink of moisture exactly where your skin needs it most. Hyaluronic acid attracts and holds water like a magnet, while a trio of essential ceramides helps reinforce your skin’s protective barrier — critical when you’re battling recycled air at 30,000 feet. Non‑comedogenic, fragrance‑free and gentle enough for sensitive skin, it layers beautifully under moisturiser or SPF. Quick to absorb and easy to pack, it’s a must‑have for hydrated, plump skin from takeoff to touchdown.

6) Best Eye Cream: La Roche-Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream

If your eyes are the first to announce a long flight with puffiness, dark circles or tiredness, the La Roche‑Posay Pigmentclar Eye Cream deserves a spot in your carry‑on. This lightweight formula targets darkness and uneven tone around the eyes — perfect for combatting the effects of dry cabin air and jet lag. Caffeine helps refresh puffed‑up under‑eyes, while L‑Dopa and light‑reflecting pigments brighten and improve overall radiance. Infused with soothing thermal spring water, it’s gentle on sensitive skin and glides on easily under makeup or alone. Apply before takeoff and again on landing for eyes that look rested, not worn‑out.

7) Bioderma Photoderm sunscreen

Whether you’re sitting by a plane window or landing in full sun, Bioderma Photoderm MAX Aquafluide SPF 50+ is the perfect sunscreen to have on hand. This lightweight, dry-touch formula offers broad-spectrum UVA/UVB protection without leaving a greasy or heavy feel—ideal for travel. The golden tint provides a subtle, natural-looking glow, evening out your skin tone while keeping it protected. Designed for all skin types, it’s non-comedogenic, water-resistant, and absorbs fast—so you can apply it easily during or after your flight without disrupting your skincare or makeup. At 40 ml, it’s perfectly sized for your carry-on, making it a travel skincare essential, especially for sunny destinations or UV exposure through airplane windows.

Lakshana is an entertainment and lifestyle journalist with over a decade of experience. She covers a wide range of stories—from community and health to mental health and inspiring people features.

A passionate K-pop enthusiast, she also enjoys exploring the cultural impact of music and fandoms through her writing.

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5 Holiday 2025 Makeup Trends That Bring Maximum Glam

5 Holiday 2025 Makeup Trends That Bring Maximum Glam

The Target in Soho was the hardest door in New York City this week — and I’m only being a little facetious. Olivia Ponton, Evan Mock, Paloma Elsesser, and Sai De Silva were all milling around the newly redesigned store, where the entrance corridor is now a walk-through bullseye. That’s where I ran into the guest of the evening: Katie Jane Hughes, whose curated beauty edit was displayed front and center on the first floor.

If anyone was going to handpick a lineup of drugstore-priced staples, it’s Hughes. The celebrity makeup artist — known for her work with Dua Lipa and affectionately dubbed “the internet’s go-to makeup artist” — has built a loyal following on Instagram and TikTok by sharing tutorials and tricks (like pinpoint shading) and reminding everyone that technique matters more than trends.

Still, Hughes — both online and in her own aesthetic — has found a way to blend the two, and her look that night proved it. She rocked a monochrome “toasted” moment with brown eyeshadow, a matching lip, and a warm wash of blush. Admittedly, saying “toasted makeup” out loud couldn’t be more embarrassing — but Hughes just laughed. “Listen, nothing is new anymore,” she said. “Remember the blueberry milk nail trend? It’s just baby blue. But if it gets someone excited to try something new when they normally only wear beige, then I think it’s amazing.”

Her Target beauty edit has the same effect. It’s packed with products that might nudge you outside your comfort zone or help you double down on the classics — like the Real Techniques brush and sponge set; Prequel’s Nourishing Oil Cleanser for the skin care-obsessed; e.l.f.’s viral Halo Glow Blush; and Maybelline’s Serum Lipstick in 005, her pick for “the perfect peachy tone.”

Below, Hughes shares her picks of the buzziest holiday makeup trends of the season — all of which you can pull off with the products above.

1Tightlining & Micro Wings

“We’re moving into a more delicate, whispery wing. The trick is to keep it really close to the lash line as opposed to committing to anything too big.”

2Frosty Pink Monochrome

“It’s the best color ever. Put it everywhere — on the eyes, lips, Cupid’s bow, cheeks. I’m obsessed. Anything shimmery or frosty just looks opulent.”

3The New Red Lip

“Red lips have gotten an update in that they’re more sheer than opaque or matte. It feels a bit like you’ve put a powder eyeshadow on your lips, buffed it in, and layered clear balm over the top. It’s not a wet or dry look. It’s lined with a contour pen — almost like a Korean-kissed, powdery pout.”

4“Cinnamon Girl” Tones

“Beiges, browns, and berries — as opposed to bright red — can be more versatile, especially if you think about every product in your makeup bag as multi-use. If you’ve got an eyebrow pencil with two ends, use it as your eyeliner. If you’ve got a blush that’s cream, use it on your lips. If you’ve got an eyebrow pencil that works with your skin tone, use it as a lip liner.”

5Satin Skin

“2016 makeup is coming back, but in a more elevated way. The skin isn’t as heavy. Maybe the eye and lip are bold, but the complexion has an editorial finish. Getting that satin skin really starts with the prep. Exfoliate with a face cloth — literally go downstairs at Target and buy a five-pack of any thin washcloth that has a little bit of abrasion to it. Your skin is going to take the makeup like butter.”

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wellness

Say Happy Holiday With These Health And Wellness Gifts

by Ahsan Washington

The perfect gifts for people who want to improve their physical and mental wellness

Who says the holiday season isn’t the perfect time to choose gifts that enhance mental and physical health along with spiritual well-being? During the holiday season, a significant amount of people experience depression and practice poor habits around diet and exercise.

The following health and wellness brands fuse purposeful approaches with plant-based solutions and self-care practices to create perfect gifts for people who want to improve their physical and mental wellness, and enhance their everyday health.

Golde

The wellness and beauty brand Golde started in 2017, to deliver clean vegan latte blends and matcha powders along with skincare products that nourish daily self-care routines. Golde started in a Brooklyn apartment and has grown steadily to achieve national recognition. Products are sold through online platforms, as well as in expanded retail and wellness locations. Golde serves people who want complete wellness through nutritional support and skin health and lifestyle routines.

Organic Olivia

The herbal supplement brand Organic Olivia combines traditional plant-based healing methods with modern wellness formats. Its herbal support addresses stress, gut health, and hormone balance. Organic Olivia sells its products through online platforms and are a perfect gift for people who want to achieve holistic health.

The Honey Pot

The Honey Pot provides a range of plant-based feminine care products including gentle pH-balanced washes and wipes along with tampons, pads and intimate-care items. The Honey Pot makes a considerate wellness gift because it focuses on bodily care and comfort. The Honey Pot operates online and through major retailers that sell women’s personal care products.

Movita Organics

Movita Organics provides a clean whole-food multivitamin and beauty supplement through its brand. The beauty-vitamin blends from Movita Organics support internal wellness while enhancing your hair, skin and nail health. The brand operates actively and sells its supplements through 30-day supplement bottles available for online purchase. Movita Organics serves as the perfect option for people who want an easy daily nutritional boost to support their hair, skin and nail health.

Plant Apothecary

Plant Apothecary sells organic body care and aromatherapy products with minimalist design and mood-boosting ingredients for customers who want gifts that enhance both body care and mood. The brand exists within modern wellness-care trends and sells through online platforms to customers who practice aromatherapy, self-care rituals or prefer minimalist body care products.

Homebody

The luxury bath-soak and self-care ritual brand Homebody combines botanicals with wellness-focused ingredients. Homebody was developed for a person who uses bath therapy to recover from serious injury. The brand provides deep relaxation and healing experiences that can help reduce holiday stress. Homebody products are sold through its website and retail stores, and make an ideal present for people who want to rest and relax or reset their minds.

Alaffia

Alaffia functions as a fair-trade enterprise to produce personal care products using West African shea and ethically sourced ingredients. Through its commitment to community empowerment and fair trade practices, the wellness gifts have extra ethical value. Alaffia sells its products on online platforms. People who prioritize ethical sourcing together with community support and clean personal care will find these products to be a meaningful selection.

Iyoba

Iyoba is a small-batch natural skincare and wellness brand that creates handmade soaps along with body butters and hair oils and bath products. The brand delivers personal care items which are non-toxic and environmentally sustainable, while focusing on holistic health and clean beauty standards. Customers can purchase Iyoba’s soaps and bath oils and body butters and hair/body care products from Iyoba’s official website. 

Body Complete RX

The brand Body Complete RX specializes in plant-based wellness supplements that include products designed to balance hormones, support metabolism and manage weight. The brand serves people who want internal wellness assistance for hormonal and metabolic health as an alternative to topical treatments.

SuperGut

The fiber-based wellness product line SuperGut promotes gut health together with digestion, satiety and metabolic function. The product makes an ideal gift for people who focus on improving their gut and digestive health. The product belongs to the modern wellness supplement market and can be purchased through online platforms.

PEAK + VALLEY

PEAK + VALLEY creates adaptogen and mushroom-based wellness products that include Ashwagandha, Reishi, and Lion’s Mane to help customers manage stress while improving sleep and cognitive function. This wellness gift provides excellent support for people who experience stress, sleep problems, or need help with cognitive health. 

RELATED CONTENT: Ahmaud Arbery ‘s Mother Keeps His Legacy Alive By Creating A Safe Space For Black Teens

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Holiday skincare routines celebrities swear by

Holiday skincare routines celebrities swear by

The holiday season often brings overlapping work commitments, social events, and personal responsibilities, leaving little time for rest. For many, the combination of long hours, travel, and festive activities can take a toll on the skin, leading to fatigue, puffiness, and dullness.

Experts recommend incorporating targeted skincare treatments, hydration, and proper sleep routines to maintain a refreshed appearance during the busiest time of the year.

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Many local celebrities are turning to Belo Medical Group to keep their skin camera-ready amid the season’s demands.

One of Belo’s lounges blends art and soft lighting to create a relaxing setting

Among the most sought-after procedures is NeuroBright Eyes, a 20-minute treatment designed to reduce under-eye puffiness and fatigue. The procedure, part of Belo’s Neurocosmetics line, uses lactobiome to balance the skin, hyaluronic acid for hydration and firming, and tranexamic acid for brightening. The treatment works by modulating the “brain–skin axis,” calming nerve-driven stress that can trigger puffiness, dark circles, or dullness. 

Pia Wurtzbach-Jauncey recently sampled NeuroBright Eyes, while actor KD Estrada and actress Alexa Ilacad rely on it to maintain a rested look amid demanding schedules of tapings, concerts, and performances.

Pia Wurtzbach undergoes Belo’s NeuroBright Eyes treatment, a 20-minute procedure designed to ease under-eye puffiness and signs of fatigue using the brand’s Neurocosmetics approach

Another popular option is the NeuroGlow Facial, which targets uneven texture, congestion, and dullness by regulating overstimulated neuro-receptors. BINI member Aiah, who recently completed 12 Biniverse concert stops across Asia and North America, uses NeuroGlow to keep her skin vibrant. 

Content creator CK de Leon reported noticeable improvements in texture and brightness after two sessions. Actress Kaila Estrada and content creator Charlie Flemming also use the treatment to maintain healthy skin despite busy routines.

For facial contouring, Liftera employs thermal diffusion technology to lift, contour, and define facial angles without downtime. The ultrasound-based treatment triggers collagen remodeling at multiple depths, refining the jawline, softening early signs of laxity, and gradually enhancing structure and definition.

Belo Medical Group reception area offers a calm, nature-inspired space where clients prepare for treatments

Lifestyle and fashion personalities Jaz Reyes, Raymond Gutierrez, Georgina Wilson, and Liz Uy rely on Liftera to maintain sharp, polished features while managing demanding professional and personal schedules.

Belo’s Vertical Axis Lift combines multiple machine-based procedures to enhance lift, contour, and skin suppleness along the natural direction of aging.

Dr. Vicki Belo emphasized that no single machine can achieve all desired results, making combination procedures more effective. Piolo Pascual uses the treatment annually to maintain firm and sculpted angles, while Anne Curtis opts for it to achieve a natural, non-invasive lift.

Dr. Belo noted that 2025 emphasizes combining procedures to deliver optimal results. Non-invasive treatments remain central to Belo’s approach, offering effective outcomes with minimal discomfort or downtime, catering to clients with busy December calendars.

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7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

7 Holiday Cookie Recipes To Make Your Season Bright

Some of my favorite holiday memories are of baking with my family – eating dough, throwing a smidge of flour at each other, and most importantly ending up with a plate of hot, fresh cookies.

If you’re planning a baking session soon, here are seven tried-and-true holiday cookie recipes to make your season a little brighter.

I hope you love them as much as we do!

Gluten-Free Gingerbread Men

These chewy gingerbread cookies blend sweet cinnamon and a hint of vanilla with zingy ginger and molasses.

They’re surprisingly simple to make and so delicious!

Gluten-Free Sugar Cookies

Decorated with naturally colored sprinkles and plant-based, natural food dye, these cutout cookies are super easy to make and fun to decorate. 

Gluten-Free Snickerdoodle Cookies

Soft, chewy and rolled in cinnamon sugar deliciousness, these gluten-free snickerdoodles are made with just a handful of simple ingredients that you probably already have on hand.

Gluten-Free Brown Butter Pecan Cookies

These scrumptious gluten-free butter pecan cookies are buttery, chewy and so yummy, and you only need seven ingredients to make them!

GET THE RECIPE

Zimtsterne, which means “cinnamon stars,” is a traditional spiced cookie that’s made with ground almonds or hazelnuts. It’s naturally gluten-free, chewy in the middle, and crisp around the edges.

Soft & Chewy Chai Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Spiced with ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, allspice, cloves, nutmeg and a smidge of black pepper, these chai cookies are soft, chewy, and easy to make.

Jam Thumbprint Cookies (Gluten-Free)

Soft & buttery, these thumbprint cookies are easy to make and so delicious! Fill with whatever jam makes your taste buds sing – raspberry, strawberry, peach, and blackberry are a few of our favorites.

Bonus Recipe: Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookies

Whether or not this favorite is actually a holiday cookie depends on who you ask, but I’m including it here for those who can’t imagine a holiday baking session without them. 

These ooey-gooey paleo cookies are one of my family’s tried-and-true favorite recipes. Ready in about 20 minutes.

More Holiday Recipes To Try

Easy, Creamy Homemade Eggnog (Traditional and Dairy-Free) – Our ancestors didn’t drink eggnog with high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavors, stabilizers and carrageenan, and we don’t have to either. Make this quick and easy creamy eggnog instead.

Chocolate Peppermint Freezer Fudge – This chocolate peppermint freezer fudge recipe reminds me of biting into a Thin Mint cookie, and it only takes 10 minutes of hands-on time to make.

Mexican Hot Chocolate – This rich, velvety Mexican hot chocolate is one of my favorites. It balances notes of cinnamon and vanilla with the exotic warmth of chipotle chili powder. You’ll find my recipe over at NourishedKitchen.com.

Homemade Marshmallows – Is it possible to make light, fluffy marshmallows without corn syrup? Yep. These classic-style marshmallows are made with wholesome ingredients like honey, grass-fed gelatin and vanilla.

Want more delicious, easy recipes?

No problem, I’ve created a free ebook for you – 35+ Gluten-Free Desserts – as a gift for signing up for my newsletter. Every Sunday you’ll get recipes, actionable health tips, and highly-vetted product recommendations delivered fresh to your inbox.

Sign up using the form below.

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Christmas activities for kids

45+ Christmas Activities for Kids to Do This Holiday Season

For many of us, Christmas time means a little more time with family and a break from school. We do an adventure points system over summer break, but I wanted to brainstorm some more Christmas ideas. Here are some fun Christmas activities for kids that encourage creativity, imagination, and movement during the holiday season.

Christmas Activities for Kids

I already have a big list of 100+ boredom-busting activities for kids. But sometimes it’s nice to have something a little more in the holiday spirit for them to do. Most of these easy Christmas activities for kids are free, can be done at home, or are near you. 

Maybe your kids are home on Christmas break and you’re looking for a fun family activity to do together. Or maybe they’re getting a little bored and are looking for something hands-on.

Our family focuses on gratitude and giving over the Christmas season, so you’ll find plenty of kid-friendly ideas that line up with that principle. There’s just something a little magical about this time of year and it’s nice to enjoy fun Christmas activities alongside a mug of (healthy) hot cocoa.

The ideas below aren’t divided by age, but you may find that some of your kids will enjoy one activity over another. Older kids aren’t as thrilled with sensory bins and toddlers aren’t really able to do an activity like snowboarding. So pick and choose what works best for your family.

Some of these work well as Christmas party activities for kids if you’re hosting a family gathering. Or if you’re an educator, they can be done in school in a classroom setting. 

Christmas Playdough

Playdough is a hit with preschoolers everywhere and it’s easy to make your own. I like this playdough recipe here, plus it’s gluten-free for kids who have allergies. I’ll add a little natural red or green food coloring to make it holiday colored. Add a little peppermint extract to the batch to make a fun candy cane playdough!

Holiday Themed Sensory Bin

This one is great for toddlers and preschoolers. Even kids who are a little older love getting their hands in a bin of rice or beans for sensory play! The best sensory activity is one that encourages creativity and free play. It’s not as fun if the parent spends more time putting all of the details together than the kids do playing with it.

It’s also a great opportunity for little ones to use tweezers, spoons, and other utensils to transfer the objects from one container to another. This is a fun way to practice fine motor skills.

  • Make a cinnamon themed bin with rice, cinnamon sticks, pine cones, and little gingerbread themed items from around the house.
  • Create a natural Christmas sensory bin with pine cones, cranberries, fir branches, and small pieces of cut wood or branches. Mix them into a base of red beans, dried peas, and white beans (like navy or lima), for a red, white, and green theme.

Christmas Craft Activities For Kids

You may be a paper plate, popsicle stick, and glitter kind of family or maybe your kids prefer less crafty art projects. I enjoy sitting down with the kids to draw or paint, and we’ve done several art projects this way together. Here are a few holiday crafts the whole family can do together.

  • Cut out paper snowflakes from white paper and hang them up to display
  • Make a Christmas tree craft out of construction paper, popsicle sticks, or miniature ornaments. Older kids can make one out of scrap wood.
  • Pull out the pom poms and make a festive photo ornament wreath.
  • Try an origami Christmas project.

Science Experiments

Do a science experiment (together or have the kids do one on their own). I love this book for the kids because it has projects they can mostly do themselves. And I don’t have to buy any special ingredients or supplies.

KiwiCo also offers a subscription box for those who love having science experiments delivered. They also have art and craft boxes if that’s your thing. I like that they have options for everyone from babies to teens (and older) and for different budgets.

Fingerpaint

If your kids aren’t old enough to wield a paintbrush yet, then try this edible finger paint! I use spirulina or spinach for the green color and beets for a pinkish red. They have a lot of fun painting with it and I don’t worry if they get some in their mouth. The art projects only last for about a day, so I’ll snap a picture if it’s something I want to keep.

Make Your Own Crayons

Kids can have fun making their own beeswax crayons with this DIY project. Use a silicone mold in fun, Christmas themed shapes like gingerbread, trees or snowmen. 

Build a Gingerbread House

A candy covered gingerbread house isn’t something you’re going to find on my table. However, there is a way to get in on the fun and still be (relatively) healthy. I’ll make sweets for the kids on occasion, just with healthier ingredients.

Here’s a tutorial for an AIP gingerbread house or a regular version that you can easily make with organic ingredients. Dried fruit, nuts, coconut shreds, and dark chocolate make great decorations. Stick it all on with the frosting recipe from the bottom of this vanilla cake post.  

Bake Christmas Cookies

One year my kids wanted gingerbread cookies so I came up with this molasses cookies recipe. It has all the flavors of gingerbread without the junky ingredients. Coconut macaroons, snickerdoodles and chewy chocolate cookies are also a big hit at our house.  

This is the perfect opportunity for the kids to bake some treats for the neighbors, nursing home residents, or extended family and give as a gift.

Make a Christmas Card

Christmas is the one time of the year when we all wear coordinating outfits and snap a family picture. Even if you’re like us and send out a family photo Christmas card, you can pair it with a homemade card. Kids can use construction paper, paint, and markers to make their own Christmas cards with a heartfelt note. These can either be mailed or hand delivered.

Festive Marshmallows

Christmas activities for kids can be delicious too. Years ago I started making my own homemade marshmallows. The kids love the taste and they’re full of gut healing gelatin and naturally sweetened.

These matcha marshmallows are a festive green color. Or add some peppermint extract (instead of vanilla) to my homemade marshmallows recipe for a seasonal flavor.

Christmas Songs

You can play some Christmas songs in the background while the kids are doing chores around the house, cooking meals, or doing fun projects. Do some Christmas song karaoke or dance to your favorite tunes for fun movement.

Advent Calendar

Countdown to Christmas day with an Advent calendar. I use this one that gives a prompt for a kind act we can do each day. It takes the focus off of getting stuff and encourages us to do for others. Here are more ways our family honors the advent season.

Christmas Movies

Make a list of Christmas movies to watch together and make some popcorn and snacks. We keep a basket of blue light blocking glasses in our living for everyone on family movie nights. It’s a Wonderful Life is one of our favorites that we watch every year.

Capture the Memories

Every year I gift the kids a photo book with some of their favorite memories from the past year. They always look forward to it and enjoy looking back on what they’ve been up to. Kids can make their own keepsake photo books with their holiday memories. They can also make one with favorite family recipes from the holiday season.

Some kids may need a little more help than others with formatting their special photo book, but places like Mixbook make it really easy.

Sip on Cocoa

Hot cocoa is a must have in our house. Even better if it has some homemade marshmallows on top! Make some homemade cocoa to sip on while wrapping gifts or reading a favorite Christmas book. I also like this healthy premade hot chocolate that’s packed with superfoods (like medicinal mushrooms).

Make a DIY Christmas Snowglobe

If your kids are anything like mine were, they’re fascinated with snowglobes. They can make their own with a small figurine or ornament and a mason jar. Here’s a simple tutorial for how to make a glitter snow globe from a Mason jar.

DIY Christmas Ornaments

If your kids like working with air dry or oven bake clay, then they can have fun making their own customized ornaments. Salt dough is another great way to make homemade ornaments, even for young kids. Little ones can make a handprint ornament to give to the grandparents. Or use cookie cutters to make Christmas shapes to decorate.

Get the tutorial for how to make salt dough ornaments here.

Make a Garland

The kids can make a popcorn garland or string together cranberries and dried oranges. This is a fun activity to do while listening to a favorite Christmas book or music. You can hang the finished garlands around the Christmas tree, the stairway, or even the wall.

Get the instructions for how to make a DIY natural Christmas garland here.

Craft a Window Display

Decorate the window for a festive Christmas display. Kids can hang up some Christmas lights, garlands, or ornaments for passers-by to see. You can even get large, removable holiday themed stickers for the kids to put on the glass.

Make a Gnome Garden

Some kids love fairy gardens and can rearrange and play with the pieces for hours. Help the kids make a holiday themed version with gnomes. You can add little gnome figurines, rocks, moss, twigs, and other natural ingredients to the garden. Lincoln logs also make great gnome houses!

Learn how to make your own gnome (or fairy) garden here.

Christmas Games For Kids

Anything that requires movement and creativity is a win in my book. 

Make a Holiday Wreath

My girls started sewing at a young age and they’ve had a lot of fun with sewing projects over the years. This easy burlap wreath tutorial can be customized to make any shape you want. I did an egg for Easter, but kids could also cut out and sew a gingerbread man, a star, or a Christmas tree.

Get the instructions for a DIY burlap wreath here.

Christmas Tree

Find a local Christmas tree farm and go pick one out together. Whether you opt for a real tree or an artificial one, decorating it is another favorite Christmas activity. Don’t forget to put on some Christmas music and sip on a peppermint mocha or homemade hot cocoa while you decorate!

Donate to Local Families in Need

The week before or after Christmas (when we’re not busy doing school), the kids and I go around the house looking for things to get rid of. Things that we can share with others that they’ll benefit from. This helps make room for the new gifts and items coming in on Christmas day. The idea isn’t to clear out junk, but to bless someone else with something they’ll love.

We also do what we call the surprise Santa tradition. We find another family, either through a local church or a domestic violence shelter who is in need. Then we’ll get them gifts, clothing, enough food for some meals, and gift cards. Even though we don’t actually meet them in person, my kids absolutely love doing this for others.

Go Christmas Caroling

Our neighborhood has a wagon full of carolers that go around singing Christmas carols to the neighbors. Your kids can go caroling around their own neighborhood, at a local hospital, nursing home, or assisted living facility (if rules allow). It’s a great way to spread free Christmas cheer.

DIY Christmas Gifts

The kids can make their own Christmas gifts for friends and family. Younger kids may need a little more help with this one. Some popular DIY gifts around here are things like lotion bars and sugar cookie lip scrub. You can find a whole list of DIY gift ideas here.

Christmas Eve Feast

For years our family has had a fishy tradition. On Christmas Eve we’ll make a traditional Sicilian feast of the seven fishes. Yes, I really make 7 different types of fish! A lot of times it’s something small like an oyster, or a crab cake so we don’t end up eating a huge amount.

The kids love getting involved with the planning and the making of the meal. You can read more about how this tradition started for us and why we do it here.

Outdoor Christmas Activities for Kids

Get outside and into the fresh air with these Christmas activities for kids ideas.

Build a Snowman

If you live in an area where there’s snow, building a snowman is a timeless kid’s activity. Everyone can work together to build the ultimate snowman, or each family member can create their own. No snow? Make one inside with moon sand.

Christmas Lights

Many towns have Christmas light displays that are fun to go see. You may find one at the local park. Or maybe the neighbors don’t pull any punches when it comes to decorating their yards for Christmas. Take a walk around and enjoy the lights together!

Go Ice Skating

Ice skating is a fun way to get some more movement in during the colder weather. Even if you don’t live near a pond or lake that’s safe to skate on, you can probably find a local indoor or outdoor rink. Some offer discounts for groups or during certain (slower) times of the day.

Sledding

Of course, I couldn’t leave out this classic pastime. If you’re in an area with enough snow, then find a big hill and haul out the sleds. You may also be able to find a tobogganing track near your area.

Christmas Scavenger Hunt

Put together a neighborhood scavenger hunt. Make a list (or use pictures) of items the kids can find around the neighborhood. These can be things like Christmas lights, a snowman, a cardinal, and a wreath. They can work in teams or individually to find the items. Or instead of a checklist, turn it into a bingo card and see who can get 5 in a row first.

Here are a few more Christmas activities for kids:

  • Make eco-friendly cloth gift bags to wrap presents for family and friends.
  • Start a winter garden or plant a windowsill herb garden.
  • Whip up a batch of snow cream (if you’re in a snowy area).

Does your family have any special traditions or activities during the holidays? I’d love to hear about them! Let me know in the comments below!

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Holiday Wellness Hacks That Actually Work | FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV

Holiday Wellness Hacks That Actually Work | FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV

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KANSAS CITY, Mo. — Holiday stress, skipped workouts, and endless sweets — it’s the season when wellness routines get derailed, but not this year! Trusted health expert and ‘Step It Up with Steph’ host Stephanie Mansour is sharing her top “Fit for the Holidays” strategies. Visit TipsOnTV.com for the full list.

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