Gift ideas for self care

Christmas is a busy period for most and with it comes Christmas parties, present shopping and socialising which can make finding time to relax and unwind difficult. A self care product can be a thoughtful gift to give this time of year (or any time actually), or to treat yourself with. With that in mind, here are my favourite gift ideas for self care featuring independent sellers on Etsy.

Bath / Shower products

I’ve spoken before about my love of baths, I think they’re perfect to relax in after a long day, and there are plenty of bath products on the market. You really are spoilt for choice.

My favourite brand is Lush but there are other options available. At the moment I’m loving Cherry Bomb Boutique who has released a couple of hanging bauble bath bombs (£4.50), a Christmas tree bath bomb (£5) and novelty Christmas melts (£5). Of course you don’t have to buy Christmas themed!

No bath? No problem.

Showers can be equally relaxing and also very refreshing. How about some shower gel or body lotions? This lovely “pamper hamper” (£12) from Purely Soap Store is available in a range of scents. My go to is lavender, it’s great for making me feel calm and helps me get a good night’s sleep.

Bluetooth Shower Speaker

While we’re talking baths and showers, how about a Bluetooth shower speaker? There’s nothing I like better than listening to a calming play list in the bath or shower, and this way I save my phone from any water damage. It also prevents me from scrolling through social media when I’m trying to relax.

Wheat bag/Hot Water Bottle

Not only do they keep you warm wheat bags and hot water bottles are great for period cramps and help IBS flair ups. I swear by mine, which is a penguin shaped wheat bag (from New Look).

I think the animal designs are great because it also gives you something soft to cuddle. Which can be very comforting. For hot water bottles, I love the rustic charm of knitted hot water bottle covers (£15 by CQ Cushions).

Fuzzy socks

I couldn’t talk about comfort without mentioning fuzzy socks, could I? They’re warming, comforting and come in a wide range of fun designs which can often brighten my mood.

If you’re looking for something a little different or an inventive way to wrap them. How about cupcake socks? These “tea buns” (£5) by Squeaky Angels also include 5 tea bags. Fuzzy socks and tea? What’s not to love?

Cosy Blankets

There’s something about being under a blanket that not only brings comfort, but can make you feel protected.

There are many blanket designs available such as sleeved ones which help keep hands free. Helping you to hold a cup of your favourite drink or a copy of your favourite book.

Scented candles or reed diffusers

Fragrances can have a calming effect and some, like lavender, have been known to aid sleep. There’s also something I find so relaxing about watching a candle burn.

Novel candles are a great idea if you can find something you know they enjoy, like books. I’ve spoken about this old books soy candle (£4.87) before, but I have to include it again. I love the idea – there’s just something about the smell of old book stores I enjoy.

Colouring book and pencils

Colouring books are known to help with stress and are great for relieving anxiety. With so many designs to chose from you’re bound to find something they’ll enjoy. I have a few myself including a penguin one and a couple from Buffy the Vampire Slayer, they’re perfrct for a rainy day activity.

Notebook or journals

From plain papered ones to bullet journals and ones tailored to self care or mental health, notebooks and journals are great for getting thoughts or worries down on paper. Which can be very theraputic.

The self care playbook (£20 – pictured above) is full of prompts to help you with self care and self love practices. As well as some lovely affirmations.

Motivational water bottle

It’s important to keep hydrated and these motivational water bottles encourage you to drink every hour. It’s a helpful reminder and a great way of tracking your fluid intake – there have been days at work where I’ve gone the whole morning without a drink!

Your company

Sometimes depression or anxiety can feel very lonely so why not skip gifts and give them your time? Self care doesn’t have to be a solo act – pop on a face mask with your friend, have a movie night at home or bake something together.

Do you have any other gift ideas for self care? Which one here is your favourite? Let me know in the comments. 😊