With the holiday season around the corner, advertisements are beginning to fill billboards, shopping malls are getting busier, and people are discussing what gifts they want to give and receive. The holidays are often a festive time of the year when friends and family come together to celebrate, enjoy each other's company, eat festive meals, and exchange gifts. 

Gift-giving can be a way for friends and family to show appreciation for each other, connect, and tick off their wish lists. However, buying gifts can be an overwhelming experience, especially with the multitude of products available on the market today. Below, explore effortless gift ideas for stress-free holidays. Make general holiday shopping easier, find the best gift for that person who is impossible to shop for, or explore a special kind of gift for an intimate partner.

The health benefits of gift-giving

Checking items off your wish list and giving gifts to loved ones can be a fulfilling and rewarding experience. Modern research shows that an exchange of gifts can increase cognitive performance, benefitting the giver and receiver. When the study participants exchanged gifts before a task, their performance level increased. The next time someone in your life is preparing for a nerve-wracking occasion, be it a job interview or soccer match, exchanging gifts may be an effective morale booster.  

Gratitude and appreciation

Altruism and happiness

People who engage in altruistic behaviors like gift-giving, volunteering, or selfless deeds show greater satisfaction in life while exhibiting lower rates of anxiety and depression. These acts of kindness have been shown to significantly improve people's levels of happiness. Even if you aren’t buying gifts for friends and family members this holiday season, you may consider donating gifts to those in need or supporting a cause you believe in.

Gift ideas for everyone

Buying gifts for family, friends, and loved ones can be a rewarding experience, especially if you’ve put some time and effort towards it. Below are potential thoughtful options if you’re looking for inspiration this holiday season. Feel free to put your own twist on any of the recommendations below.

For the nature lovers

If your loved one enjoys the outdoors or nature, consider the following gift ideas: 

• Bird feeders: Give your friends and family a chance to wake up and watch the birds in the morning with an at-home bird feeder. Research shows that having a bird feeder supports microbiome health and well-being. 
• Self-watering plant pots: A self-watering plant pot might be the solution for busy people who love plants but don’t have the time to take care of them. 
• ENO hammocks: ENO hammocks are among the most popular hammocks in the USA and can allow your loved ones to relax under a canopy.
• Camping gear: Camping supplies may be a beneficial choice for the adventurer who always seems to be going on trips. 

For the homebody

The following gifts may be appreciated by someone who enjoys spending time at home: 

• Books: Choosing a book genre you know someone enjoys is a thoughtful way to approach gift-giving, showing them they are seen and cared for. In addition, this gift can have mental health benefits, as recreational reading reduces psychological distress.
• Mugs: If this person loves coffee in the morning, a funny, cute, or unique mug may be the way to go.
• Fluffy socks and blankets: Comfy clothes and lounge items can be perfect gifts for those who want to spend the winter days snuggled up at home
• Journals: If this individual loves to unwind and reflect during their alone time, a journal might be the perfect gift for them.

For the extraverts

You might not be sure what to get for a friend who likes to go out. Below are gift ideas for the extroverted people in your life: 

• Wine tour: If your friend is a secret wine connoisseur or likes to explore the town with friends, a guaranteed winery trip may be the perfect day out. 
• Board games: Board games offer a way for people to come together and enjoy a lighthearted but engaging activity, fostering relationships and fun. Studies show board games reduce depression and improve well-being.
• Gift cards: If your loved one is picky but you know they have a favorite store, surprise them with a gift voucher so they can enjoy browsing the shop on their own time. 
• Retro shirt: A retro shirt may be appreciated by a friend with great taste in fashion who needs a little more retro in their life or a sports fan who is always reminiscing about the old days. 

Great Gifts for Every Type of Person

No matter if someone’s an extravert, homebody, or picky husband, there’s a gift idea for almost anyone. If your recipient is a coffee lover, you may explore self-heating mugs. For sporty kids who love outdoor activities, have a look at sporting equipment. If they’re a couch potato, explore a perfect size robe or a wardrobe staple that is comfy, and two sizes too big. As a gift giver, the key is knowing your target audience, and at least one person will be sure to appreciate your ideas. 

The power of DIY gifts

No matter your budget, DIY gifts can be an opportunity to give customized or unique gifts to friends, family, and loved ones. The best gift or the right gift isn’t always the most expensive one on the list. Being a thoughtful gift giver can be simple. For example, a stylish and cozy blanket or a practical and easy storage organizer can both be a perfect example of a great gift.

When showing people gratitude and appreciation, the thought behind the gesture may be appreciated more than the gesture itself. In addition, the personalization, uniqueness, and hours spent on a project can mean a lot to someone.The following DIY projects and creative activities have a healing and protective effect on mental health.

It’s the thought that counts 

Below are gift ideas you can put time into making that may make someone’s day: 

• Wooden board games: If you enjoy carpentry in your spare time, try creating a personalized board game. 
• Bookmarks: Bookmarks can be a simple gift and have lasted the test of time as a popular gift idea. You can try designing your own or fashioning one out of old leather, clothing, or materials. 
• Knitwear: From a personalized wallet to a scarf or a pair of comfy socks, comfy knitwear can be a gift to impress. Knitting or sewing also allows you to gift them natural fibers and organic materials such as wool, silk, or organic cotton.
• Video: Have fun creating an independent or group video. From a musical performance to a talent show or birthday song, there are hundreds of unique ideas you can experiment with.

Personalized and Thoughtful Gifts

Almost anyone appreciates handmade and personalized gifts, since they make people feel seen, thought of, and extra special. From a luxurious, cozy robe to a practical, insulated mug. When choosing a gift, consider personalizing it, since a little luxury and beauty can go a long way. With personalization – such as a monogrammed robe – a touch of luxury doesn’t have to be expensive. 

Gifts for Comfort and Relaxation

If you’re buying a gift for someone who loves to unwind, cozy up, and do nothing, or for someone who needs a little stress relief, there’s plenty of exciting options. To name a few, you may buy someone some cozy slippers, special hot chocolate, a relaxed fit hoody, or a cozy blanket for those cold winter nights. To supplement a feel good gift, you may pair these with shea butter, a reusable water bottle with a vented lid, or a self-heating mug. 

Practical Gifts for the Home

Functional and stylish home decor can transform any space into a home. Below are some ideas for someone trying to upgrade their living space:

• Decor: From a coffee table book, to a small, fake plant, or a stylish picture frame 
• Personalized kitchenware: From a personalized cutting board to a monogrammed bottle opener, small everyday items can brighten their day
• Stylish storage: Pieces of furniture with a main compartment and a sleek design can help people create more space at home
• Utility items: From scented handwash to microwave safe dishware in a variety of colors, there’s no such thing as too many when it comes to certain, everyday household items

Unique Gifts for Food and Drink Lovers 

For those who enjoy cooking or relaxing with a glass of wine (or two), there’s some different options you can choose. You may buy a dutch oven for the dinner party host, elegant wine glasses for the self-proclaimed sommelier, or an imported hot chocolate set from Switzerland. These ideas can always be paired with some other, practical gifts, such as a water bottle with a vented lid, shea butter, or a cozy candle to decorate the coffee table. 

Little Luxuries That Bring Joy 

Sometimes, the little luxuries in life can bring a special kind of joy. You may explore anything from sleek design accessories to stylish candles or even a Rolls Royce (if it’s in your budget). While extra special items usually tow the line between a little luxury, beauty, and practicality, they don’t have to break the bank. Some practical, luxury gift ideas may include a scented bath bomb, an extravagant dessert (ordered to the home), an at home spa (with luxury face masks), or even making a loved one breakfast in bed.

How to Choose the Right Gift Without Overthinking

It’s easy to question whether a gift is the right gift, the perfect size, the ideal style, practical or meaningful enough, but when it comes being a gift giver it’s the thought that counts. There may be no perfect example of a gift, but for a stress-free holiday shopping experience, it can be helpful to do a little research first. Before shopping, think about what they like to do, where they spend their time, and how they like to celebrate the holidays. From there, any gift you choose – however big or small – will have some effort and thought behind it.  

Cultural norms of gift giving

Across many cultures, gifts are seen as a way to strengthen relationships and show love, gratitude, and appreciation. Acknowledging the cultural differences in giving and receiving gifts may be helpful when considering the practices and preferences of others. For example, in China, it is common for people to refuse a gift a few times before accepting it. This practice does not indicate a lack of appreciation but is a way for Chinese people to express modesty and respect. Meanwhile, in Japan, it is customary to open a gift when the giver is not present.

Gift-giving differs across cultures, so checking in with an individual before attending a holiday festivity may be worthwhile. For example, if you are spending this holiday season with a Muslim family, you may check with them before you bring alcohol. 

Health, happiness, and the holiday season

The holiday season is a chance for friends, family members, and loved ones to unite, re-establish connections, and create new memories. Studies suggest connecting with others during Thanksgiving and other festive occasions could boost well-being and happiness. However, despite the highlights this season offers, it can also be a busy period, with the stress of preparing dinner, planning, buying gifts, and socializing becoming overwhelming. Experiencing stress during the holiday season is natural, and there are steps you can take to cope. 

Stress relief during the holidays

Setting aside time to maintain healthy lifestyle habits may relieve some of your holiday stress. For instance, you might try a morning stroll, a short run, eating fruit, meditating, spending time in nature, or finding a quiet place for alone time. These healthy behaviors have been proven to increase one’s quality of life. 

When plans with friends and family occupy your time, maintaining healthy lifestyle habits can be challenging, but even short or small steps can make a difference. You may try substituting long workouts for short runs, snacks for fruit, or time spent scrolling on your phone for a quick meditation.

Mental health resources during the holiday

Prioritizing your mental health and well-being during the holidays can be advantageous. However, doing so alone might be challenging. Seeking support from a therapist or counselor can help you learn coping strategies to deal with stress, receive treatment for ongoing mental health symptoms, and explore inner thoughts and feelings. Together, these methods can help you to approach friends, family, and loved ones with gratitude and appreciation during the holiday season.

During the holiday season, you may travel regularly, spend time away from home, or be too busy to attend in-person appointments. Online therapists may have you covered, allowing you to speak to seek support at a time and place that suits you. Regardless of your age, there are online resources that you can utilize. If you’d like to connect with a mental health professional, you can find one via platforms like BetterHelp. Many people have benefitted from the knowledgeable and compassionate care of online therapists, and studies have found this method more effective than in-person therapy in reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression, which are common over the holidays.