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IN: Beauty, Friday Favorites, Lifestyle, Wellness

My Ultimate Healthy Holiday Gift Guide

November 15, 2018 By Melanie 2 Comments

Can you believe we’re already midway through November? With Thanksgiving right around the corner (next week to be exact) it seems appropriate to start thinking about all the holiday festivities next month! Honestly, December is my favorite time of year. Call me cheesy but I think Christmas is the best holiday. Everyone always seems just a little more joyful and I’m a sucker for all the fun decorations, Christmas shows, and parties that bring family and friends together. I have to admit, I love giving gifts but I’m not always the best with it. I usually end up procrastinating until the last minute and it leaves me pretty stressed. Sooo this year I decided to be a bit more proactive and start making lists very early for all the special people in my life.

I figured while I put my own gift list together, I should also share some of my favorite things in a special guide for you! These past two years of blogging have given me the opportunity to test out so many amazing products and it’s been a blast playing the role of “editor.” Now, I’m putting what I know to good use in this fun, healthy holiday gift guide that lists out all the products I’ve tried and love! BTW – this isn’t sponsored (although you should know by now that that doesn’t matter). 

Whether you’re looking for a gift for your bestie, mom, or even your furbaby, I hope you enjoy my suggestions! 

For the Yoga Lover

  1. Alo Yoga Rosewood High-Waist Moto Leggings and Bralette: One of my absolute favorite outfits for yoga and in such a gorgeous color! 
  2. Manduka Pro Mat: It may be the most you’ll ever spend on a yoga mat but trust me, the Pro Mat is so worth it. This is my go-to mat for my home practice. 
  3. Chattra Bolster from Yoga Outlet: Want to start practicing more restorative yoga? This bolster features such a fun design, is affordable and works like a charm! 
  4. All the cozy things from Athleta: You may know that I love Athleta’s activewear but did you also know 90% of my cozy Winter apparel is also from them? 
  5. Gaiam Meditation Pillow: Sitting comfortably is one of the biggest keys to a successful meditation practice. This is the same pillow that I use and I love it. 

For the Wellness Enthusiasts

  1. Live 24K Golden Fuel: If you’ve been following me for awhile you know I’m obsessed with this turmeric collagen blend for golden mylk lattes! Just add hot plant based milk and cinnamon for a super beneficial elixir
  2. Encha Ceremonial Matcha Starter Set:  You don’t necessarily need a fancy bowl and bamboo whisk to make matcha, but it doesn’t hurt! And the set is actually a great deal considering the price of Encha Matcha (which is by far the best and highest quality matcha I’ve had yet). 
  3. Saje Wellness Aroma Om Gold Marble Diffuser: I’m in love with my Saje Wellness diffuser and their new holiday collection is so beautiful! Bonus – the gift sets come in beautiful eco-friendly packaging that is super holiday ready. No wrapping paper, no waste. 🙂 
  4. Five Minute Journal: One of the easiest ways to start keeping a gratitude journal, the format of this journal is simple and effective. It really only takes 5 minutes in the morning and evening! 
  5. Stasher Bag Set: Help your friend start their plastic-free journey with these resusable storage bags. They’re such a pretty color, can be used for food or beauty products, and diswasher safe and even microwavable 
  6. Bamboo Bathtub Caddy and Bed Tray:  This is hands down one of the best purchases I’ve made all year! I love how stable this caddy is and how easily it can transform into a bed tray (for those weekend breakfasts in bed). Plust 10% of the profits goes towards an animal charity. What more could you ask for? 

For the Clean Beauty Obsessed

  1. Ilia Beauty Holiday Modern Romance Set: I’m obsessed with Ilia beauty products and these two lipstick colors (nude and red) are the perfect combo! 
  2. Vapour Beauty Winter Solstice Collection: The cutest highlighter and lip gloss duo from one of my favorite clean beauty brands. It also comes in beautiful box with a bow and is the perfect size to be used as a stocking stuffer.
  3. Eminence Organics Skincare “Beauty Experts” Set: I am in love with every single Eminence Organics product I’ve tried so far. They smell absolutely incredible (I use the vanilla latte tinted moisturizer and it’s the bomb) and this kit is a great way to try out some of their best sellers! 
  4. TULA Holiday Ultimate Self Care Kit: You guys should know by now that TULA is one of my absolute favorite beauty brands. All of their products are infused with probiotic technology and I love everything in this kit. Use my code: HEADSTANDS for 20% off! 
  5. Rose Quartz Roller + Guasha set: So this roller and guasha may be trendy but trust me, they feel amazing on your face (especially if you chill them in the fridge). They help stimulate lymphatic drainage while also acting as a great way to work in a facial oil or moisturizer of your choice. 
  6. Sundays Nontoxic Nail Polish: These nail polishes are beautiful, non-toxic, vegan and cruelty-free. L03 is my favorite shade but they have quite a variety to choose from!  
  7. Cocokind Collective (set of three): Each of these plant powered skincare sticks sets has their own unique benefit, like combating a breakout or moisturizing lips. The MyMatcha stick is my favorite. 

For the Fitness Junkies

  1. Koral Lustrous Leggings: These liquid-like leggings look super chic and feel incredible. The best part is they are hands down the best leggings to wear from studio to street! You can find them at Bandier, Addison Bay and Carbon 38. 
  2. Sweat With Bec Booty Bands: Honestly the only workout equipment you need in your home, there are so many amazing sculpting exercises you can do with these bands. 
  3. Terra Origin Chocolate Plant Protein Powder: My favorite plant based protein powder on the market! It’s made from rice, pea hemp and pumpkin protein with no random fillers or preservatives.
  4. Caraa Dance Bag in Black Mesh: I’ve mentioned this backpack several times and that’s because it’s my absolute favorite bag of the year. It’s roomy, beautiful and super high quality that looks cute and luxe at the same time. Use my code: MELANIET10 for 10% off your order
  5. DuCalm Shower Sheets: Formulated with aloe, oat and cucumber, these super thick shower wipes are a must-have for post-workout clean up. Especially if you happen to be at a gym/studio that doesn’t have a shower! 
  6. Hoka One One Hupana Slips: If you’ve seen my workout wardrobe video on IGTV you know I have alot of sneakers. My favorite for all workouts? These black sneakers from Hoka One One. They’re super lightweight, easy to clean and are perfect for HIIT, running, and virtually every workout in between. 
  7. Gingerbread RXBARs: Every fitness junkie needs a go-to protein bar for when they’re running to and from a workout. These are made with minimal ingredients and pack 12g of protein in every bar. 

For the Dog Moms (or dads) 

  1. Open Farm Pet food: Nina loves this food so much and I love that I’m feeding her a product that has premium ingredients from a company focused on animal welfare, transparent sourcing and sustainability. 
  2. Furbo Dog Camera or Dog Nanny: Ever wonder what your dog does at home? I’m so excited to finally be able to try Furbo (it even feeds them treats) with Nina. So far I think it’s such a fun way to keep your pup from getting bored while you’re away. 
  3. Plush toys from PetPlay: Nina loves loves loves these toys so much! And they have such a fun variety of themes to choose from. 
  4. Dexas Popware Collapsable Travel Cup: These travel bowls for food and water are perfect for a trip to the dog park or wherever your pup travels. I have two and they clip on to my backpacks or Nina’s carrier for whenever we’re both on the go. 
  5. PetHead Oatmeal Paw Butter: Dog paws need some love too! If you’ve noticed your pup’s paws are looking dry and cracked, I highly recommend this paw salve. It smells amazing and is made of natural ingredients like shea butter and coconut oil. 
  6. Wild One Pet Carrier: The chicest, cutest, most stylish pet carrier I’ve ever seen! It comes in three different carriers, has a cushioned based and is non-toxic. 

I hope you all find this helpful as you put together your holiday gifting lists! By the way… I have a special announcement! 

From December 1st -5th I’ll be hosting a huge “Healthy Holiday Giveaway!” It will feature five of the brands I’ve mentioned in this guide!! Get excited because it’s going to be amazing!!

I have lots of holiday fun in store for you all this year so stay tuned! Be sure to subscribe to my weekly newsletter and follow me on Instagram for more updates. 

Much love and holiday cheer,

 

Filed Under: Beauty, Friday Favorites, Lifestyle, Wellness

Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. jordan @ dancing for donuts says

    November 16, 2018 at 2:17 pm

    omg girl these are amazing!!!! i have been EYeing sets from alo, a new yoga mat, and stasher bags for awhile now. and don’t even get me started on absolutely everything from athleta!!! i’m holding out for a Black Friday sale, but i might honestly put a few things on my xmas wishlist. so many goods!!! thanks for sHaring!

    Reply
    • Melanie says

      November 18, 2018 at 7:04 pm

      Yay!! Thank you so much, Jordan! This makes me so happy to hear. 🙂

      Reply

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Meet Melanie

Meet Melanie

Hi and welcome to Headstands & Heels! I’m Melanie — a Digital Strategist turned Wellness Entrepreneur, certified yoga instructor (RYT 200), dog mama, and content creator based in Denver. I hope to encourage others to follow their dreams and cultivate a healthy, balanced lifestyle filled with mindfulness and positivity. 💕 Send me a note at: mel@headstandsandheels.com

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One grand weekend to bid farewell to summer☀️⛵️ {📍Grand Lake, CO}

Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m ju
Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m just like every other basic B #swiftie who is sooo excited for TS12! 🥰🎶

Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

#ts12 #romanticizeyourlife #summerconcert #summervibes #loverera #taylorswiftnation

Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodi
Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodismagic #newmomlife #girlmom


Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy
Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy and I can hardly believe how fast the time is flying ✨🎀

This time two years ago I said goodbye to our first baby at 11 weeks pregnant and I’ll never forget the kindness so many of you showed me. I still have many of your messages saved and thinking of them still brings me to tears 💛

If you are currently in the thick of fertility struggles, waiting, hoping and praying for your time — I see you and hope this gives you something beautiful to look forward to. Thank you for being part of my journey and I’m sending all the love your way 💫

My only goal this summer was to take notice of all
My only goal this summer was to take notice of all the little things that spark joy and do them as often as possible 💫

{soft living, wellness, new motherhood, happy habits, mindfulness, cozy hobbies, be present, Pinterest aesthetic, summer vibes, mood board, wellbeing}

We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy h
We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy habit that we can do more of. So if you’re wanting to make more time for yourself but not sure which hobby is right for you, this guide is for you!

✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

PHYSICAL 
get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
keep your mind sharp, expand your perspective and help you follow your curiosity 

CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

OUTDOORSY
immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
nourishment your inner world, allow you to feel grounded, connected and more present 

COMMUNITY FOCUSED 
provide a sense of belonging, foster connection, deepen relationships and encourage collaboration
 
Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕

This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts
This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts & crafts into a little cozy hobby cart! ✨💛

My random art supplies have been scattered about in various rooms & closets in my home so I FINALLY got around to organizing them 🎨 

From scrapbooking, to coloring books, painting, and decoupage tools — these cozy crafts are now easily accessible and hopefully will make finding the time for creative hobbies to be a tad bit easier ☺️

Let me know if you’re also in your cozy hobby era! And let me know which hobby you want to make more time for 👇🏼

One of my goals is to make my evening routines scr
One of my goals is to make my evening routines screen free and as cozy as possible ✨💫

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries

My goal is to make my evening routines feel a litt
My goal is to make my evening routines feel a little more special this season with lots of self care and cozy hobbies ✨💛 

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries

I know so many people are already posting about Fa
I know so many people are already posting about Fall but am I the only one who is happy we still have a few more weeks of summer? ☀️ 

Since we have some time before we switch to cozy drinks, this #matchamonday is starring one of my absolute favorite combos… an iced mango matcha latte 🥭🍵

The sweet & earthy flavors work sooo well together, not to mention the layers are super pretty! 

Here’s your sign to make one

All you need is: 

✨ 1 tsp ceremonial grade matcha mixed with 1/4 cup hot water 
✨ 1 cup your choice of milk 
✨ 1/2 ripe mango mashed

Whisk the matcha and hot (not boiling) water and set aside. Mash ripe mango and add to glass. Top with ice, milk and matcha! 💛

Let me know if you’ll be making this and if you’re currently hanging onto summer vibes or leaning into early Autumn

For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying
For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying new and old hobbies, connecting to your inner child, fully embracing all the things you love and feeling so much more confident in who you are 💕💫 

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeinyour30s 
#joyfulliving #smalljoys #cozyhobbies

Happy Monday! Here’s a gentle reminder that your
Happy Monday! Here’s a gentle reminder that your morning routine doesn’t have to take long for it to be impactful. Adding little moments of mindfulness can do wonders for your physical and emotional wellbeing and even 5 minutes of self-care can set the tone for the day 🦋💕

Since my mornings are a bit more chaotic now, following my 3 step formula to nourish, move, and practice self care has been SO helpful during this phase of life 💫. And I hope it does the same for you! 

Swipe through for some mindful exercises that take less than 5 minutes and comment WORKSHEET if you’d like to receive my free, printable Mindful Morning worksheet straight to your inbox 

Here’s to making our morning routine feel a little more special, even on those extra busy days ✨

#healthylifestyle #healthyhabits #romanticizeyourlife #happyandhealthylife #joyfulliving #softwellness


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One grand weekend to bid farewell to summer☀️⛵️ {📍Grand Lake, CO}
Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m ju Throwing it back to the #erastour because I’m just like every other basic B #swiftie who is sooo excited for TS12! 🥰🎶

Anyone else hoping “The Life of a Showgirl” is a full on girly pop album? 🤞🏼 

Sidenote this may have been my favorite outfit everrr and I need to come up with an excuse to wear it again ✨💖

#ts12 #romanticizeyourlife #summerconcert #summervibes #loverera #taylorswiftnation
Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨ #motherhoodi Life with a little bestie >> 💕✨

#motherhoodismagic #newmomlife #girlmom
Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy Celebrating 8 months with our little bundle of joy and I can hardly believe how fast the time is flying ✨🎀

This time two years ago I said goodbye to our first baby at 11 weeks pregnant and I’ll never forget the kindness so many of you showed me. I still have many of your messages saved and thinking of them still brings me to tears 💛

If you are currently in the thick of fertility struggles, waiting, hoping and praying for your time — I see you and hope this gives you something beautiful to look forward to. Thank you for being part of my journey and I’m sending all the love your way 💫
My only goal this summer was to take notice of all My only goal this summer was to take notice of all the little things that spark joy and do them as often as possible 💫

{soft living, wellness, new motherhood, happy habits, mindfulness, cozy hobbies, be present, Pinterest aesthetic, summer vibes, mood board, wellbeing}
We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy h We all know making time for hobbies is a healthy habit that we can do more of. So if you’re wanting to make more time for yourself but not sure which hobby is right for you, this guide is for you!

✨These 36 hobbies split across 6 categories are PERFECT for your 30s but can also be enjoyed at any age and are meant to help you discover new activities or reconnect with childhood favorites✨

PHYSICAL 
get you moving, support your health, release stress and give you a boost of endorphins

INTELLECTUAL
keep your mind sharp, expand your perspective and help you follow your curiosity 

CREATIVE
allow you to express yourself, tap into playfulness, relax and unwind 

OUTDOORSY
immerse you in fresh air, bring you scenic sights and foster your spirit of adventure 

SPIRITUAL
nourishment your inner world, allow you to feel grounded, connected and more present 

COMMUNITY FOCUSED 
provide a sense of belonging, foster connection, deepen relationships and encourage collaboration
 
Be sure to swipe through the list and SAVE for later! Let me know which ones you’ll be trying more of 💕
This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts This is your sign to consolidate all of your arts & crafts into a little cozy hobby cart! ✨💛

My random art supplies have been scattered about in various rooms & closets in my home so I FINALLY got around to organizing them 🎨 

From scrapbooking, to coloring books, painting, and decoupage tools — these cozy crafts are now easily accessible and hopefully will make finding the time for creative hobbies to be a tad bit easier ☺️

Let me know if you’re also in your cozy hobby era! And let me know which hobby you want to make more time for 👇🏼
One of my goals is to make my evening routines scr One of my goals is to make my evening routines screen free and as cozy as possible ✨💫

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries
My goal is to make my evening routines feel a litt My goal is to make my evening routines feel a little more special this season with lots of self care and cozy hobbies ✨💛 

Last night, that looked like an everything shower, a hydrating face mask in my fluffy new strawberry robe, a hot cup of peppermint tea and watercolors in bed. Literally couldn’t think of a more perfect, relaxing way to unwind 

I finally organized all of my craft items into a little hobby cart that I’ll be sharing with you all tomorrow! And I hope to give you some ideas on how to slow down and make the most of the time you have for yourself because we all deserve a little coziness and self care ✨💫

#romanticizeyourlife #eveningroutine #eveningdiaries #selfcarediaries
I know so many people are already posting about Fa I know so many people are already posting about Fall but am I the only one who is happy we still have a few more weeks of summer? ☀️ 

Since we have some time before we switch to cozy drinks, this #matchamonday is starring one of my absolute favorite combos… an iced mango matcha latte 🥭🍵

The sweet & earthy flavors work sooo well together, not to mention the layers are super pretty! 

Here’s your sign to make one

All you need is: 

✨ 1 tsp ceremonial grade matcha mixed with 1/4 cup hot water 
✨ 1 cup your choice of milk 
✨ 1/2 ripe mango mashed

Whisk the matcha and hot (not boiling) water and set aside. Mash ripe mango and add to glass. Top with ice, milk and matcha! 💛

Let me know if you’ll be making this and if you’re currently hanging onto summer vibes or leaning into early Autumn
For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying For all the women in your 30s — cheers to trying new and old hobbies, connecting to your inner child, fully embracing all the things you love and feeling so much more confident in who you are 💕💫 

#romanticizeyourlife #lifeinyour30s 
#joyfulliving #smalljoys #cozyhobbies
Happy Monday! Here’s a gentle reminder that your Happy Monday! Here’s a gentle reminder that your morning routine doesn’t have to take long for it to be impactful. Adding little moments of mindfulness can do wonders for your physical and emotional wellbeing and even 5 minutes of self-care can set the tone for the day 🦋💕

Since my mornings are a bit more chaotic now, following my 3 step formula to nourish, move, and practice self care has been SO helpful during this phase of life 💫. And I hope it does the same for you! 

Swipe through for some mindful exercises that take less than 5 minutes and comment WORKSHEET if you’d like to receive my free, printable Mindful Morning worksheet straight to your inbox 

Here’s to making our morning routine feel a little more special, even on those extra busy days ✨

#healthylifestyle #healthyhabits #romanticizeyourlife #happyandhealthylife #joyfulliving #softwellness
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