Raise your hand if you are having difficulty finding the perfect gift for that special someone. Personally, when I am asked what I “want” for the holidays, I quietly think to myself, “I don’t ‘want’ for anything.” I have my health, fabulous friends, an amazing family and the cutest dogs on the plant; what else could I possibly want? I certainly don’t need for anything either…
That being said, I have compiled a small list of fun, festive things to give to those who don’t “need” or “want” for anything this season. Why not give the gift of health for the holidays and support your local community?
As a sports massage therapist, I am a huge advocate of “alternative-preventative” modalities. I hope one day there are not considered “alternative” and are incorporated into the world of “western medicine.”
Massage: A gift certificate from a local massage therapist is enough to make any achy individual jump for joy. Large spa chains are nice, but doing your research and finding a local business can kill two birds with one stone; support your local community and make the recipient of this gift very happy.
Acupuncture: For some of you, the thought of being punctured with tiny needles sounds less than ideal. Honestly, acupuncture, (in my experience) is more relaxing than massage, and the possibilities for healing are endless. Consider gifting several sessions so the recipient may begin a treatment schedule.
Chiropractic: Your body isn’t “talking” to itself if your spine is not aligned. Chiropractic is another modality that, if done correctly, can improve one’s health and wellbeing. As with the two modalities above, do your research, ask for recommendations and find a local business to support. A package of several chiropractic adjustments is an ideal “health oriented” present.
Specialty Gym Membership: Small, specialty gyms (or studios) are popping up all over the country; be it CrossFit, Kettelbells, Yoga, Pilates or TaiChi. Purchase the one you love a month, few months, or an annual membership to a specialty gym and allow them to become a master of a new trait. Finding a new, energetic passion can improve mental and physical wellbeing.
Personal Training: Maybe the person you are purchasing for already has a gym membership. No problemo! Most “box gyms” offer personal training for a fee. Give the gift of fitness with several sessions with a personal trainer.
Running Group: Running is back “in”; I see it all the time. Individuals who are looking to get back into shape, or those looking for meditative time “away” are being drawn to running groups. These groups usually meet two to three times a week for group training, as well as supplying the student with a running itinerary to help one meet their running goal, be in 5K, 10K, Half Marathon or Marathon. Anyone can join these groups for a small fee; a gift certificate to cover the running group fee could change someone’s life.
Think outside of the box this holiday and take pride in the gifts you give. Happy Holidays to you and yours!