10 healthy holiday gift ideas

While you can’t wrap health up in a box to give to your friends and loved ones, there are plenty of gifts you can give to help them feel and live well.  

We asked our Workforce Wellness and Clinical Nutrition teams for healthy gift suggestions to inspire our holiday shopping.

Insulated cups or mugs

If you know someone – or are someone! – who is always vowing to drink enough water, an insulated cup or mug that keeps beverages cold or hot makes a perfect gift. For an upgraded take on a reusable mug, there are even smart water bottles that light up or send reminders to keep hydrated.

Healthy snacks 

Sharing treats with loved ones is a special part of the holidays. For a healthier twist on host gifts or stocking stuffers, our dietitians recommend savory snacks like popcorn, unsalted nuts or protein bars or sweet options like dark chocolate or fruit baskets.

Meal kits

For some, the most meaningful gift of all is not having to answer, “What should I make for dinner?” Meal kits not only take away the mental load of choosing a recipe; they also deliver right to your recipient’s door. Many services offer everything from ready-made meals to DIY kits; these can often be customized to dietary preferences or restrictions.

Yoga equipment 

Upgrade your favorite yogi’s setup – or hook a friend on a new hobby – by gifting yoga equipment. Wrap up a new mat or towel, or set them up with supplies they’d normally borrow from the studio, like a yoga strap or block.

Massage or spa gift cards

Massages and spa services are perfect for anyone who would enjoy a little pampering. A gift card to a local spa allows your recipient to choose a service and schedule it for a time that works for them, so all that’s left to do is show up and relax.

Fitness classes 

If your loved one has mentioned a new cycling studio or barre class they’d like to try, a fitness studio gift card is a great idea. Likewise, consider gifting subscriptions to wellness and fitness apps offering meditation or at-home workouts. (As with any gift, be sure to consider your loved one’s wishes and interests before signing them up for a gym membership. We’re trying to stay on the Nice List, after all!)

Gardening tools

Gift gardening tools to the green thumb in your life. Ideas could include gardening gloves, tool organizers or auto-watering devices. For apartment-dwellers, or those without dedicated gardens, potted herbs make great gifts that can brighten up spaces – and dishes!

Workout clothes 

Outfit your friends and family with new workout gear. Choose an item off their wish list or replace a beloved option they’ve worn out, such as leggings, gym shorts, moisture-wicking tops, warm layers for exercising outside or running socks.

Air fryers

Calling all home cooks! Air fryers use air instead of oil to give food the crispy texture normally associated with fast food. Recipients can make healthier versions of their favorite fried foods or reheat leftovers at home, all while steering clear of excess calories and unhealthy fats.

Fitness trackers 

Fitness trackers allow users to log workouts, count steps and more. There are tons of options ranging from basic pedometers to watches and rings that measure heart rate and sleep quality. Some even let you compete with friends, allowing you to share stats and stay active together.

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