journal

Holiday Gifting For A Well Lived Life

And just like that, the holidays are coming up once again. For many, this time of year can bring up a multitude of feelings like joy, grief, and stress. Over the years I have committed to using this season to slow down, reconnect with myself and loved ones, and reflect on the year that was.

Giving gifts is something that brings me a lot of delight because it’s an opportunity to show the women in my life that I see and hear them. And since these last few years have been especially tough for many of us, I think we could all use a reminder that we’re loved and appreciated, don’t you?

Sometimes the pressure of the holiday season can get the better of us and gifting becomes an afterthought, or worse, an obligation. When this happens, the meaning behind the gift is lost. Here’s the thing: living intentionally also extends to those around us, so luckily we can get into the practice of intentional gifting. Pencil in some time for yourself to really consider the people on your list this year. Think about what they love, what they don’t like, and what they need more of in their lives. And if you’re still stumped, I’ve put together a gift guide for helping the women around you live better, more intentional lives.

The Petit Plume Luxe Pima Cotton Caftan is the perfect comfy house dress with a dose of style. For sleeping, this 100% washable silk slip dress is fantastic. Sleeping in silk is so luxurious! If you’re seeking something a little more personal, everything from Catbird is beautiful, and won’t break the bank. All of their pieces are under $200.

Life is always better with art around so treat someone to something handmade and beautiful. This wall hanging from NikNik is a one of a kind piece that any art lover would be thrilled to receive. It’s also good for our souls to create things, for no other reason than to feel the pleasure of it. These watercolor sets are a minimalist and lovely.

What are you feeling? These are a fun gift for everyone over the holidays to brush up on their emotional literacy. Looking for something a little more insightful? These Art Meditations by Laina Miller offer five creative exercises for mindful exploration. Mindfulness + beauty = a well lived life. Seeds are exciting, but what's cooler than giving the gift of butterflies, flowers, and botanical healing?

The simple pleasure of cooking and eating but sooooo much better with these upgraded spices. These were one of my best quarantine purchase and I can never go back! If you just try one, it's the Royal Cinnamon that will put your store-bought cinnamon to shame and is a lovely stocking stuffer or hostess gift.

Speaking of stocking stuffers, here are four sweet and affordable gifts to add to your loved ones stockings this holiday season:

I hope this guide has provided you with some tips for gifting intentionally this holiday season. It’s important to try to not put too much pressure on yourself this season. Gifting can be an affirming practice, but this season can be whatever you want it to be—even simply a time of quiet contemplation and a reset before a new year begins.

Jaimi Brooks is a licensed marriage and family therapist, women's group leader, founder of The Well Lived Woman, and creator of the Values Deck.