Holiday Gift Guide
"It takes courage to say yes to rest and play in a culture where exhaustion is seen as a status symbol" - Brene Brown
December is in full swing and even the most organized person can find themselves running around in a state of exhaustion and not enjoying the precious moments with family and friends that truly bring us joy. I love this quote from Brene Brown and I encourage each of you to say yes to doing what will make you truly happy and in a state of peace. This may mean saying no to a fun social commitment this month because the day or week of the event your body is telling you to slow down. Dare to be different; dare to be true to you! There will be another party so focus on listening to what your body needs to become a better version of who you are today.
'Tis gift-giving season so I though I'd share my favorite products/gadgets that I just "can't live without". They all make excellent gift ideas for everyone from friends, family, teachers and even for yourself.
Kitchen Appliances/Gadgets
We love using our sous vide so much that my husband bought the latest model so that we can use both when we're entertaining for a crowd. Here is the first model we purchased, which I personally use weekly, along with the container that we use (but is not required): Anova Culinary Sous Vide Precision Cooker and container
If you follow me on Instagram you know how much I love my Instant Pot (I have the 8 Qt size) and molds for sous vide egg bites
Mason Jars (I use the 16 oz and 32 oz sizes to store nuts, seeds, coconut, soups, broth etc)
Prep Bowls: Not only are these key to meal prep but also help with portion control. I love this 10 piece set of different size bowls too.
Ramekins: Perfect for a scoop of ice cream and portion-controlled snacks like nuts.
Mandoline: I have this old school version but there are lots of cool, new and fancier models too.
Stainless Steel Straws: Feel free to bring these to Starbucks to enjoy your favorite iced beverage 😊.
Avocado Saver: This gets used daily in our house.
Stainless Steel Containers: This set of three with lids is perfect for lunches and snacks on the go.
Food Products
Thrive Membership: Use this link to receive a 30-day free trial and get 25% off your first order. I love buying the Thrive brand products, which are high quality/organic and significantly cheaper than the larger name brands. Plus, I love that for every paid membership Thrive will donate a membership to someone in need. Now that's a gift that keeps on giving!
My favorite clean protein bars include: Dales Raw Foods and Rawr Organics
Four Sigmatic Mushroom Blends-I know I've shared this on social media but I really am loving the few varieties I've tried so far from the Four Sigmatic line. Yes, I know what you're thinking but mushrooms and adaptogens are some of the world’s most nutritious foods and these easy to drink and convenient blends really do taste good! I especially love their Mushroom Hot Cacao Mix in the afternoon and also their Superfood Blend which I enjoy with coconut milk and a little cinnamon in the late afternoon or evenings. I recently purchased their matcha mushroom blend and can't wait to try it!
Humble Nut Butter - I love all of the flavors but my favorite is the Sundried Basil Cashew
Bubba's Fine Foods- Nana Chips and Original Snacks (with nuts)
Primal Chocolate - Paleo friendly chocolate bars and treats sweetened with coconut sugar and made without soy or dairy. So good even my kids try to sneak a bite when I'm not looking.
Daily Harvest (get 3 free) The smoothies and harvest bowls have been a life-saver the past month by providing me stress-free delicious and nourishing meals when I'm on the go.
Dry Farm Wines: For the wine lover who is looking for a natural, additive free, sugar free and delicious wine. Wines are keto friendly, have less alcohol and will leave you feeling great the next morning! I started buying these wines late summer and am hooked!
uchoose superfoods: These amazing plant-based products simplify how you incorporate superfoods into your diet. I use the energy and chocolate blends in all of my smoothies and love the nutbutter too.
The Twisted Shrub: I've recently shared why we love this apple cider vinegar mixer on social media so if you haven't tried it now is the time! Add this to sparkling water to jazz up your beverage or make a signature cocktail at your next party.
Heath & Beauty
Jasmine Touch Roller: I use this scent every day and love it!
Peppermint Beadlets I quite chewing gum thanks to these minty beadlets. I keep a container in my car and in my purse.
On Guard Beadlets (a must this time of year for immune support)
Diffusers: Use them in your kitchen, office, bedroom or anywhere you want to create a natural mood enhancing experience.
Himalayan Salt Lamp: I have this on my bedside table to create a peaceful and relaxing environment.
The best yoga bag ever! This will fit not only your mat but a water bottle, towel and place for your keys and phone.
Essential Oils (lavender, wild orange, peppermint, melaleuca and On Guard). This set is perfect for someone who is new to oils as it contains four of the most widely used oils. This Travel Kit is perfect for an introduction into oils for you or a friend. The Kit contains a small jar of lavender, wild orange, peppermint and aroma touch. Message me if you want to learn more about incorporating oils into your life.
Beauty Counter: I use so many of their products because not only are they safe for my skin but they are high quality and most importantly effective! My top picks include: the touchup concealer pen, hydrating foundation, lipgloss, (I love the buff, bare shimmer, Dahlia and Fig), nourishing cream cleanser and cleansing balm.
I love inspirational -shirts for working out and lounging around the house. You can't go wrong with Spiritual Gangster Tanks or my favorite Target finds including this Good Vibes sweatshirt and Avocado tee.
Books
You can find more about why I love many of these books in my Instagram Post from last week.
"What I Know For Sure" by Oprah Winfrey
"Girl Wash Your Face " by Rachel Hollis
"The Four Agreements" by Don Miguel Ruiz
"Food: What the Heck Should I Eat?" Dr. Mark Hyman
"The Self-Care Solution" by Julie Burton
"Oh She Glows Everyday" Cookbook by Angela Liddon