Healthy Holiday Gifts
The shopping season is in full swing and if you are looking for the perfect healthy gift, we have some great ideas below.
Stocking Stuffers
Pedometer. Know someone who’s trying to start a simple exercise program? A pedometer, which counts each step a person takes and the distance they’ve walked, makes a perfect present for someone who’s trying to be more active. There are also many personal electronic devices on the market that can track physical activity and sleep.
iPod or iTunes gift card. Combining entertainment and exercise often motivates people to jump on the treadmill who would otherwise be bored by going for a run or walk. You don’t just have to download music either; you can download books or movies to watch or listen to while exercising.
Gifts
Instead of giving the neighbors more sugary goodies as a way to say happy holidays, think of giving a non-food related like a poinsettia plant. It’s a calorie free way of saying we were thinking of you during the holidays.
Active video games for kids and adults. Your children want to play video games. You want them to go outside and get some exercise. Now there’s a solution you both can love and enjoy. Active video games, such as Dance Dance Revolution, the Nintendo Wii force players to get off the couch and burn calories.
A massage gift certificate. Purchase a relaxing massage at a spa. Or create a home spa basket with essential oils, bath salts, massage oil, body lotions and a pumice stone. Relaxation and stress relief are important for overall good health.
A bicycle. Bikes are a great way for kids and adults to get exercise. You don’t have to spend a lot of money either, check out Goodwill stores or second-hand shops. They often have good bikes that might need just a little work.
Healthy cookbooks. How about a new cookbook that includes healthy recipes — maybe one with healthy soups, salads, vegetable sides dishes, whole grains or whole grain breads.
Subscription to a magazine. Consider giving a year subscription to a magazine. There are several magazines that offer healthy recipes and tips, as well as magazines that focus on physical activity (biking, hiking, running, etc.) and relaxation.
Instead of giving the grandkids gift certificates to the movies, give them gift certificates to do something active like lasertag, bowling, mini-golf or the trampoline jump place. Plan an adventure together and make some memories!
Knowing that you kept the health of your family and friends in mind this year is a gift in and of itself!
