Gift Ideas for Health and Wellness in 2023

If you’re looking to give your family and friends something that will make a lasting impact on them, I highly encourage you to think about health and wellness gifts. A gift like this won’t be forgotten and there will be less of a chance of regifting going on because it will be something that can actually be used every day. To help get those gift-giving juices flowing, here’s my comprehensive guide to gift ideas for health and wellness in 2023.

**I may earn a commission if you buy through links on this page, but I only recommend products that I back. You can read my disclosure policy here.

Why Health and Wellness Gifts Are Important

Health and wellness gifts are important because they promote self-care and a focus on personal well-being. By giving the gift of wellness, you are showing the recipient that you truly care about them. Even better, it will be clear that you have taken the time to put thought and effort into finding something that fits them and their lifestyle goals. This is intentional gift giving at its best and is an approach that will bring both you and the recipient a great deal of satisfaction.

Here are a few other reasons why health and wellness gifts are important:
1. Encouraging self-care: Many people may neglect their own well-being due to busy schedules or other responsibilities. Health and wellness gifts serve as a reminder for your people to take time for themselves and prioritize their health.
2. Promoting a healthier lifestyle: Health and wellness gifts often involve activities or products that encourage healthier habits such as exercising, eating well, practicing mindfulness, or getting enough sleep. By giving these gifts, you’re helping your loved one adopt a healthier lifestyle.
3. Reducing stress: Stress is a significant factor in overall health and well-being. Health and wellness gifts, such as massage tools, stress-relief products, or relaxation items, can reduce stress levels and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
4. Enhancing mental well-being: In this day and age, focusing on mental well-being is crucial but is something that many of us put on the back burner. Items like journals, meditation apps, or aromatherapy products can help a friend or family member improve mood, reduce anxiety, and boost mental clarity while promoting the prioritization of mental health.

Tips for Choosing the Best Wellness Gifts

Choosing the right wellness gift requires thoughtfulness and understanding of the recipient’s needs and preferences. It’s also important that you don’t use gift-giving as an opportunity to promote your own agenda for health and lifestyle changes that you think that person should be making but that they haven’t necessarily expressed an interest in. If it comes across as pressuring them, even the seemingly best health and wellness gifts will go unused.

Here are some tips to guide you:

Consider their lifestyle: Are they always on the go or do they enjoy spending time at home? Do they prefer indoor or outdoor activities? Consider their lifestyle and choose a gift that complements it.
Know their Interests: Do they enjoy yoga, meditation, cooking, or reading? Choose a gift that aligns with their interests.
Understand their Needs: Are they stressed, tired, or struggling with physical discomfort? Choose a gift that addresses their specific needs.
Think about Longevity: Choose a gift that they can use over a long period of time. This not only ensures value for your money but also provides ongoing benefits to the recipient.

Popular Gift Ideas for Health and Wellness in 2023

When it comes to gift ideas for health and wellness, I have five primary categories that they fall under. These are fitness equipment and accessories; healthy eating and kitchen gadgets; organizational and coping resources; gifts to destress, unwind, and relax; and health and wellness experiential gifts. Here’s a list of the best suggestions for each of those.

Fitness equipment and accessories

1. Fitness trackers

Fitness trackers can track various activities like steps, distance, calories burned, active minutes, and even sleep. This data can help the user understand their daily activity levels and make necessary adjustments to achieve fitness goals. Many fitness trackers also have built-in heart rate and blood pressure monitors. In addition, they often come with features where users can set goals and receive reminders to move if they have been inactive for a while.

2. Resistance bands

Resistance bands can be used for a wide range of exercises and fitness levels. They make a great gift because they’re very portable, take up minimal space, and can be used to increase mobility, improve flexibility, and strengthen specific muscle groups without putting excessive strain on the body.

3. Yoga Mats

If you know that the person you’re buying a gift for is ready to become more focused on exercise and health, a yoga mat is an essential piece of equipment to help get them started. Of course, they can be used for yoga and Pilates, but they’re also ideal for stretching, core workouts, and floor exercises. In addition, they can be rolled out anywhere and at any time for meditation and mindfulness sessions.

4. Water bottle

Staying hydrated is crucial during workouts or any physical activity, and a high-quality water bottle can help in achieving this. Water bottles should be made of stainless steel or at the very least, BPA-free plastic and should have a flip-top lid or a built-in straw for easy drinking. They should also have a wide-mouth opening for easy filling and cleaning and a handle for carrying. I prefer a 40-ounce water bottle because I know that filling it up twice a day is getting me close to my water intake goals.

5. Personal training sessions

A personal trainer can create personalized workouts based on the recipient’s specific goals and fitness level. This ensures that the exercises are tailored to their needs and maximize results. In addition, personal trainers can teach the correct form and technique for different exercises, reducing the risk of injuries and ensuring that the recipient gets the most out of their workouts.

Healthy eating and kitchen gadgets

1. Meal plan subscription

Busy individuals or those who struggle with meal planning and grocery shopping will appreciate the convenience of a meal plan subscription. It eliminates the need to research recipes or make grocery lists, making it easier to maintain a healthy lifestyle. When choosing a meal plan subscription, consider the recipient’s dietary preferences, lifestyle, and cooking expertise.

2. Meal-prep kit subscription

A meal-prep kit subscription offers a convenient solution for those who want to eat healthier but don’t want to or don’t have time to put too much thought into cooking. These kits often focus on providing nutritious and balanced meals, making it easier for the recipient to maintain a healthy eating routine without having to spend time planning and grocery shopping. Most meal kit subscriptions offer a wide range of recipes to choose from, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary requirements. This allows the recipient to try out different meals and discover new flavors.

3. Blender

A blender is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for various tasks such as blending, pureeing, and mixing. Blenders are suitable for making smoothies, but they can also be used for soups, sauces, dips, and even crushing ice. While there are very high-end, heavy-duty options out there (hello, Vitamix!) that would make great gifts, I can also say from extensive experience that the less expensive versions also do the job nicely.

4. Nutribullet

A Nutribullet is a high-powered blender specifically designed for making smoothies and extracting nutrients from fruits and vegetables. It comes with different-sized cups and blades, allowing the user to blend and drink directly from the same container.

5. Rice Cooker

Rice cookers are designed to simplify and streamline the cooking process. With automation and programmable settings, they eliminate the need for constant monitoring or stirring. This convenience allows the recipient to prepare healthy meals quickly and efficiently, even on busy days. Rice cookers can also do more than just cook rice. Many modern rice cookers come with multiple functions, allowing you to steam vegetables, prepare soups and stews, and even make oatmeal or quinoa.

6. Air fryer

Air fryers use hot air circulation to cook food, requiring little to no oil. As a result, it significantly reduces the overall fat content in the food, making it a healthier alternative to deep frying. They can also do more than just fry; they can grill, roast, and even bake. This versatility allows for a wide range of healthy cooking options, including vegetables, seafood, meats, and even desserts. As another bonus, air fryers cook food faster than traditional methods. With their rapid air circulation, they can reduce cooking time by up to 30%. This feature can be particularly attractive to someone who wants to enjoy healthy meals without spending too much time in the kitchen.

If you really want to dive deep into this category, I have an entire post dedicated to the 10 Best Kitchen Gifts for Healthy Cooking. Be sure to check it out!

Gifts to de-stress, unwind, and relax

1. essential oil

Essential oils are made from natural plant extracts and have been used for centuries to promote relaxation and overall well-being. They are often used in aromatherapy due to their ability to trigger certain responses in the brain. Different scents, such as lavender, chamomile, and bergamot, have calming properties that can help ease stress and anxiety. When giving essential oils as a gift, consider including a diffuser or a guidebook that explores different uses and blends. This will enhance the recipient’s experience and help them discover new ways to incorporate essential oils into their daily routine.

2. Soy candles

I am a huge advocate for using candles to combine beauty, scent, and ambiance to provide a multi-sensory experience that can help create a calming, soothing, and relaxing atmosphere. Soy candles are best because, unlike traditional paraffin candles, they produce less soot and pollutants, making them a healthier and greener alternative. In addition, soybean oil is a renewable resource and biodegradable. I love gift sets with a variety of scents so that the recipient can experiment and see which they love the most.

3. massage gun

Massage guns are portable devices designed to provide deep tissue massage and help alleviate muscle tension and soreness. They offer multiple massage heads and speed settings to cater to individual preferences. The percussive action of the massage gun helps improve blood flow, reduce muscle stiffness, and promote relaxation. The recipient can use it to target specific areas of tension or for a full-body massage.

4. Bath bombs

Bath bombs have gained significant popularity over the years because of their ability to create a soothing and relaxing experience. They are infused with various essential oils that release calming fragrances when they come into contact with water. Many bath bombs contain nourishing ingredients such as shea butter and coconut oil, which can help hydrate and soften the skin. This can be especially beneficial for those dealing with dry or irritated skin. The key to giving bath bombs as a gift is to buy from reputable brands that only use natural ingredients and no harsh chemicals. Since even natural ingredients can cause some irritation, if you know the recipient has sensitive skin, you’ll want to skip the bath bombs and opt for another relaxing gift option.

5. Shower steamers

Shower steamers create a spa-like atmosphere in the shower. As they dissolve in the hot water, they release aromatic and essential oils, filling the shower with a soothing, calming scent. The recipient simply places them in a corner or on the floor of the shower, and the hot water activates the fragrance.

6. Luxury travel pillow

A luxury travel pillow is ideal for the person in your life who is constantly on the go. Specifically designed to provide comfort and support to the neck and head while traveling, they are typically compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. No more falling asleep in the wrong position and waking up with a sore or cramped neck and shoulders!

7. Weighted blanket

Weighted blankets use deep touch pressure to provide a soothing sensation that can help calm anxiety and reduce stress. The added weight simulates the feeling of being hugged or held, releasing happy hormones like serotonin and oxytocin. According to Penn Medicine, “The gentle pressure on your body provided by a weighted blanket can also help to calm you by activating your parasympathetic nervous system, which lowers your heart rate when you’re stressed.” Remember, before purchasing a weighted blanket as a gift, it’s crucial to consider the recipient’s preferences and body weight. Selecting the right weight and size will ensure maximum comfort and effectiveness.

8. Wellness journal

Research shows that journaling can help reduce stress levels. It allows people to unload their worries, anxieties, and frustrations onto paper, which can help them release negative emotions and find a sense of relief. In addition, wellness journals often include prompts or sections for gratitude, goal setting, and personal growth. Encouraging the recipient to focus on the positive aspects of their life, set intentions, or work toward self-improvement can enhance their overall well-being and promote a more relaxed state of mind.

9. Mindfulness cards

Mindfulness cards encourage the recipient to be fully present and aware of their thoughts, feelings, and sensations. They can help cultivate a sense of calm and tranquility by offering a variety of practices such as breathing exercises, meditation techniques, gratitude prompts, or simple mindfulness reminders. This variety allows the recipient to choose activities that resonate with them and align with their specific needs. I love mindfulness cards as a gift idea for health and wellness because they’re portable and easy to use anytime and anywhere.

Organizational and coping resources

1. Organizing session gift card

Giving a gift card for a session with a professional organizer can be a thoughtful way of helping a loved one overcome any feelings of being stuck or overwhelmed by their surroundings. Professional organizers have the knowledge and experience to declutter and organize spaces effectively and can provide personalized advice and strategies to suit the individual’s specific needs and lifestyle. The key to successfully giving this gift is that you only want to do it for someone who has specifically expressed an interest in getting help with organizing. In those cases, it could be one of the most appreciated gifts you ever give. On the other hand, if the person hasn’t said that they want to get more organized, this could be seen as a not-so-subtle passive-aggressive way of telling them you think they’re disorganized and messy.

2. Printable packet or notebook

Putting together a packet or notebook of self-care or lifestyle hack printables makes a unique and thoughtful gift idea for health and wellness for daughters, daughters-in-law, or friends who still have younger children. If you need a good resource for these, I absolutely love the self-care printables for moms available over at Mostly Under Control. Melanie is a busy mom of four and definitely knows a thing or two about how to keep it “mostly under control.”

3. Goal tracker

Goal trackers can be an excellent gift idea for anyone who wants to improve their organization, daily coping skills, and overall productivity. As the name implies, these tools provide a structured way for the recipient to set and track their goals. It helps them break down larger goals into smaller, manageable tasks, which enhances motivation and a sense of accomplishment.

Health and wellness experiential gifts

1. Massage gift certificates

Massage therapy is well-known for its ability to reduce stress and anxiety and to promote relaxation. A massage session can help alleviate tension in muscles and release endorphins, promoting a sense of calm as well as helping to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, improve sleep patterns, and enhance overall mood. Massage therapy also has various physical health benefits. It can help relieve pain, enhance circulation, improve flexibility and posture, and boost the immune system. Most massage therapists offer gift certificates for single sessions or deals on packages for multiple sessions, so you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for this health and wellness gift.

2. Reiki gift card

Reiki is a Japanese energy healing technique that promotes relaxation, stress reduction, and overall well-being. It works by channeling life energy to the recipient, promoting the smooth flow of energy throughout their body. This energy balance can lead to improved physical and emotional well-being. Reiki can be a great wellness gift option for those interested in exploring holistic healing practices.

3. Wellness retreat packages

A wellness retreat package offers the recipient the opportunity to escape their daily routine, relax, rejuvenate, and focus on their health and wellness. This type of retreat typically includes various activities such as yoga, meditation, spa treatments, fitness classes, healthy meals, and workshops on stress management, mindfulness, and nutrition. It provides a holistic approach to wellness, addressing both physical and mental health.

4. Yoga or pilates sessions

Yoga or pilates both offer various physical health benefits such as improved flexibility, strength, posture, and balance. Engaging in yoga or pilates also provides a great opportunity for relaxation and stress relief. The breathing exercises and mindful movements during these sessions can help the individual achieve a calm and centered state of mind. Yoga and pilates classes come in various styles, levels, and durations, making it easy to find the perfect fit for the recipient’s preferences and fitness level. I recommend getting them a general gift card that would cover any of the basic classes, and then they can choose which session(s) they would like to attend.

5. Spa day

A spa day can provide numerous benefits and is a thoughtful present for someone in need of self-care. Treatments such as massages, acupressure, facials, and aromatherapy can help the recipient to reduce stress levels, promote relaxation, and simply get a much-needed pick-me-up. These activities allow them to disconnect from their daily routine and focus on their well-being.

In addition, many spas offer treatments that help eliminate toxins from the body, such as body wraps, saunas, and steam rooms. These can aid in cleansing the body and leaving the recipient feeling refreshed and revitalized. Hot stone massages and therapeutic massages can help alleviate muscle tension, pain, and reduce inflammation, and facials and other skin care treatments can help improve skin health and appearance. Overall, if you’re trying to find a great gift idea for health and wellness for a busy woman, you really can’t go wrong with pampering them with a spa gift.

6. One-on-One or Group health coaching

For the women in your life who have expressed an interest in getting healthier or in achieving specific health and wellness goals, one-on-one or group coaching sessions are definitely something to consider. One-on-one health coaching provides support and guidance tailored to the individual’s unique needs and goals. The coach works closely with the recipient to develop a personalized plan, taking into consideration factors such as their current health, lifestyle, and preferences. Group coaching takes a more general approach but still offers plenty of education, support, and most of all, accountability in what is usually a more affordable way.

Health coaching focuses on a holistic approach to health and wellness, considering physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Whether they are one-on-one or in a virtual group setting, the sessions can cover a wide range of topics, including nutrition advice, stress reduction techniques, sleep optimization, and lifestyle modifications to support better overall health.

It’s important to keep in mind that giving a single one-on-one health coaching session won’t be worth your money or the recipient’s time. It takes at least three months of twice-monthly sessions to give any results a fair chance of becoming lasting and sustainable habits. If you’re interested in gifting one-on-one health coaching sessions for a loved one, I’d be happy to speak with you further to help make sure it sounds like a good fit. If you’d rather consider gifting a membership to my Empowered Health and Wellness for Women Over 40 Facebook group, be sure to check out all of the details, then let me know if you have any questions.

Bottom Line on Gift Ideas for Health and Wellness

The next time you are looking for the perfect gift for a loved one, consider these gift ideas for health and wellness. They’re not only a great way to show your love and care, but they’ll also contribute to improving the recipient’s overall well-being. Happy gifting!