Be mindful when shopping for gifts and pick up one of these thoughtful finds to aid your friend's meditation practice.
Meditation is the gift that keeps on giving: not only is it a great way to unwind, but mindfulness may also improve sleep, combat anxiety, and possibly even help people who are suffering from chronic pain. Having a meditation practice is especially important during times of stress (in other words, the entire holiday season). If you know someone who meditates or wants to get started, give them something to help them relax and feel centered. From the perfect meditation cushion to a soothing candle to calming beauty must-haves, here are 12 great picks they'll love.
1
Drunk Elephant Juju Bar
Send "good juju" to a friend with this anything-but-ordinary facial soap. The calming scent and gentle lather works to cleanse, exfoliate, and heal skin. Marula oil helps skin look as zen as it feels.
2
‘You Had Me At Namaste’ Tank
Meditation is often viewed as a serious practice, but that doesn't mean the gear can’t be whimsical. This on-trend tank could be worn to yoga class or during at-home meditation sessions.
3
Elemis Quiet Mind Temple Balm
Whether you’ve committed to daily meditation or just need a quiet moment every now and then, this balm can help you de-stress. Created with a blend of essential oils that aid relaxation, a few drops rubbed onto temples and massaged on the neck will soothe the skin and mind.
4
Yoga Mat
The relationship between yoga and mindfulness is strong, and many people who practice meditation also enjoy yoga as a physical way to get centered. This vegan leather mat is easy to clean, has great grip (read: no more slippery hands), and features a gorgeous pattern.
5
'Heavily Meditated' Mug
Everyone appreciates a good mug, and this one has a simple design but playful personality. Upgrade it by adding in a calming tea to the gift package (see our pick below).
6
Raizana Tea Company TranquilyTea
This yummy blend contains chamomile, spearmint, and lemongrass to encourage relaxation. Plus, the packaging is chic enough that it’s practically already gift-wrapped.
7
Mala Meditation Beads
Mala beads are traditionally used in meditation. This version includes an affirmations guide, and the beads themselves are made of beautiful quartz, agate, and howlite gemstones.
8
Meditation Cushion Pillow
Ever tried to sit on the ground to meditate? Chances are you’ve reached for a couch cushion more than once to avoid contact with the hardwood floor. This pillow was designed with meditation in mind; it’s firm and supportive while still comfortable enough to balance on. Plus, it will look great on your friend's couch as an accent pillow.
9
Capri Blue Dark Vanilla and Sandalwood Candle
Is there anything more relaxing than a good candle? Sandalwood is said to be one of the best scents for meditating, and this candle smells so good that she'll want to keep it lit long after her session has ended.
10
Chakra Stones
There may not be any real science behind so-called healing crystals, but Health's resident medical expert Dr. Raj says they may have a placebo effect to make people feel more relaxed. Chakra stones are said to give off positive energy and cleanse the aura, and this four-stone set (in gorgeous natural rose quartz) fits comfortably in the palm.
11
Farmaesthetics Pink Petal Roses Bath Salts
Unwinding in a warm bath can be its own form of meditation, and mineral bath salts add an extra-special touch to a deep soak. These soothing salts will fill any tub with the calming scent of rose oil, along with a combination of pink Himalayan and Epsom salts.
12
Unplug: A Simple Guide to Meditation
Even those who seek to practice mindfulness often struggle to find time for self-reflection in their everyday lives—we’re busy people, and nobody is perfect. This terrific book by Suze Yalof Schwartz, founder and CEO of Unplug Meditation Studio, is an approachable guide that aims to help readers with a lot on their plates achieve a happier, healthier outlook.
13
Emily McDowell Legitimate Feelings Journal
Writing things down—whether it’s an inspirational quote, daily gratitude, or secret stressor—is a form of meditation in itself. Sometimes it’s nice to let it all out on the page, and this adorable notebook allows one to do so in style.
