The holidays are supposed to be an exciting time of the year. For most, it’s a time of celebration, reunions with family and friends, and making memories. However, for some, it’s a season of heightened anxiety and depression. This time of year can come with an array of demands, including unrealistic expectations, financial stress, and high amounts of socialization. Although many find the holidays overwhelming and stressful, those with generalized anxiety disorder (GAD) and social anxiety disorder may find this time of year triggering.
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, we may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that we only recommend products that we love from companies that we trust. Furthermore, we are not medical professionals and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.
Understanding your worries can help you prepare and cope with the season. Here are a few tips to help you manage your anxiety during the holidays:
Don’t Abandon Healthy Habits
Don’t forget to be kind to yourself during the holiday season. This time of year, it can be easy to forget about your self-care needs. Taking care of yourself by being physically active, eating properly, and sleeping well can improve your overall well-being.
Schedule a time during the day to unwind. While you may feel like you must be on the go constantly to be productive, allowing yourself to relax can help you calm down and accomplish more throughout the day.
Find time to do things you enjoy such as take a walk, read a book, or practice yoga.
Organize Your Finances
Gift-giving can take up a lot of time, money, and energy. Creating a budget can help minimize stress by reducing surprise spending. Try making homemade gifts or suggest a gift exchange to help lower expenses.
Utilizing credit card reward points during the holidays is an easy way to get cashback on your purchases or travel expenses. The best credit cards can earn you up to 2X rewards on your holiday shopping.
With the holidays requiring a lot of spending, looking into the cost to refinance your home can be an option to reduce your monthly spending. Taking advantage of the record low mortgage rates can help you ease your financial stress by having more money to put towards high-interest credit card bills or save up for home improvements you’ve been hoping to accomplish.
Use Your Support System
Between shopping and many social gatherings, remember it’s okay to ask for help. Saying no in situations where you may feel overbooked is okay. Friends and colleagues will understand if you’re unable to attend every event.
Understanding your stressors and talking through them with a loved one can help you sort through your thoughts. Writing your feelings down in a journal may help you prioritize your problems and concerns.
If you’re feeling lonely or stressed, try reaching out to friends, family, or professional help. There are many support groups you can reach out to that can help you get through difficult times.
Have an Anxiety Plan of Action
You want to hope for the best, but also plan for the worst. Having a plan of action when your anxiety does arise can help calm your “what-if” worries.
Determine how you will respond to your growing anxiety.
Practice deep breathing, remove yourself from busy gatherings, or have a signal to give a loved one to notify them of your heightened anxiety.
Many feel stressed over the holidays. If your anxiety starts to take a toll on your overall well-being, it might be worthwhile to reach out for support. Remember to not overdo yourself and be realistic with your expectations. When battling anxiety, make sure to set aside plenty of time to focus on yourself too, during and after, the busy holidays.
In the first few months after the baby is born, moms are very busy and do not possess time for themselves. Every so often they don’t have time to sleep or spare a little free time. What to give moms? If you are trying to come up with the ideal gift for a new mom, you are in the right place. We have designed creative and useful gifts that mom will surely like. There are classic gifts like baby diapers, clothes and blankets that have become traditional, but we went a step further and found gifts that every mom will adore! Find out below how to select the best gift for a new mom!
*This is a guest post and all opinions are those of the author. This post may also contain affiliate and/or paid links. Rest assured that we only work with companies and individuals that we trust. While some of those companies and individuals may work in the medical field, this post is not intended to be a substitution for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.
Professional photography
New moms need to record every moment with their baby. Photos of a newborn baby become precious family memories. Moms are very grateful when they give away a voucher for professional photography or organize the arrival of a photographer at their home address. These photos are kept for life.
Personalized necklaces
Personalized necklaces made of silver or gold carry a dedication in the form of a name or initials. You can give a new mom a piece of jewelry with the baby’s name written on it, and we believe she will be delighted! You should think about what she prefers to wear, whether it is bracelets, necklaces or earrings. This kind of gift is a good investment because they will wear it proudly.
Comfortable pajamas
Moms need to feel good and comfortable in the beginning. At home, they will usually wear a nightgown, bathrobe or pajamas. Choose a piece of simple clothing and made of natural materials. In addition, you can consider new leggings, warm socks or slippers that have a light and soft sole.
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Grocery shopping
Moms don’t have much time to spend shopping, so bringing groceries will be a gift for a new mom that will make them very happy. You can also surprise your daughter, friend or sister, by sending her a basket full of fruit. Fresh fruit gift hampers are a gift that moms can’t resist! After pregnancy and childbirth, they need a lot of vitamins and fresh fruit to keep their immunity strong and be able to cope with the new schedule.
Cleaning service
If you pay for a cleaner as a gift for a new mom, she will be very grateful. Moms have little time and try to be with the baby as much as possible. Cleaning and maintaining a home can be very hard and stressful in the first months. If you do not want to pay for additional cleaning services, get organized with friends and family.
Moms require more rest
For the first few months, mothers are sleep deprived and tired. Taking care of a child for a few hours a day can help moms dedicate themselves or go to the hairdresser. They can only sleep or take a warm bath that will relax them. This free time is precious, and mom will be very happy that she found an extra hour or two to go for a manicure or do something she didn’t get to do.
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Massage
Moms need a massage that will relax them, and that will relieve back pain. The masseur can also come to your home address. A gifted massage will make mom more rested and calm. Massage is the easiest way to relax and achieve good health. This method of treatment has been used for more than 5,000 years, and masseurs say that regular massage improves general health, mental and physical condition.
Free evening with a partner
Although the first months when the baby arrives are very hectic and stressful, moms claim to enjoy every moment. However, every so often they require a dinner with a partner where they will be able to get closer, talk and enjoy food. Dinner for two and baby care for a few hours is a gift that moms can hardly wait for! That is an opportunity for mom to get dressed and shine again in high heels.
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Coffee maker
All new parents need a little extra caffeine! Many moms do not have the time to prepare delicious coffee and spend time in the kitchen. A coffee machine can help them with that! If your coffee machine is currently inaccessible, consider a standard coffee maker that has a lower price.
With these gifts, new moms will be able to relax and find a little more time to spend alone or with their baby. Instead of traditional gifts, select the really useful and functional ones. That will mean something to your mom in the upcoming weeks or months.
Author Bio
Alison Pearson is an interior design student. She is a writer and designer, but her ultimate passion is fitness and health. She is also a bibliophile and her favorite book is “The Sound and the Fury” by William Faulkner. Follow her on Twitter.
Let’s start February off with this kindness calendar, because there’s no denying that we could all use more love in our lives. After the chaotic year that was 2020, the intentions we’ve set for 2021 are likely more grounded in self-care and appreciating the little things. These types of intentions are rooted in love.
While February is typically known as the month of love, there are many ways to show it. You may choose to surprise someone with roses or maybe you’d rather spend time making a nice dinner with a loved one. If you’re looking for a unique way to show love this Valentine’s season, you might want to consider random acts of kindness. Random acts of kindness are small acts that can make a big difference in someone’s day.
*This is a guest post and all opinions are those of the author. This post may also contain affiliate and/or paid links. Rest assured that I only work with companies and individuals that I trust. While some of those companies and individuals may work in the medical field, this post is not intended to be a substitution for medical advice. Always speak to your doctor if you have concerns about your mental or physical health.
To help you spread the love this February, we have 14 kindness ideas, one for each day leading up to Valentine’s Day. Either follow along day-by-day or pick your own order. Each time you complete an act of kindness, check off the heart on the calendar.
Day 1: Send a letter of encouragement
printable mandala coloring page
Send a letter of encouragement to someone who could use a smile. Print out mandala coloring pages to put in the letter so the recipient has a fun activity to entertain them and keep them calm. If you have young kids, have them color the designs and send the artwork in the letter instead.
Day 2: Bake a treat for your neighbor
What’s your favorite item to bake? Bake your favorite treat or a treat you think your neighbor will like and package it up with a printable treat tag.
printable treat tags
Day 3: Leave a positive review at a local spot
Many small businesses have been struggling this past year. Lift them up by writing a positive review or sharing their posts on social media.
Day 4: Give someone a compliment
Whether it’s from six feet away or on Zoom, brighten someone’s day by complimenting them.
Day 5: Create a pick-me-up kit
Do you know someone who’s in a rut? Create a pick me up kit with printable notes and leave it on their doorstep.
printable kindness notes
Day 6: Bring flowers to an essential worker
There are many selfless heroes who are working overtime to keep us safe. Brighten their day with some brightly colored flowers.
Day 7: Send someone a candid photo
Go through your camera roll and find photos you have with the special people in your life. Send them the photo and a nice note.
Day 8: Leave a note in a loved one’s lunch
Show your appreciation for your family members by including a surprise printable note in their lunch.
printable lunch box notes
Day 9: Pay for someone behind you in line
When you’re out getting lunch or coffee, pay for the person behind you. If you don’t have the financial means, you can offer your time by letting them cut you in the check-out line.
Day 10: Start a gratitude journal
When you start recognizing the positives, you become more positive. Start a gratitude journal to document all the things you’re grateful for.
Day 11: Clean up your community
Make your neighborhood a cleaner and prettier place to live. Pick up trash for an hour or plant flowers in a community garden.
Day 12: Give yourself a break
printable bookmarks
Spreading love and kindness includes practicing self-care. If you’re not at your best, you can’t be there for the people you love. Take a break and practice self-care in a moment you’d normally fill with other to-dos.
Day 13: Give a friend your favorite book
Raise your hand if you have a bookshelf of books you probably won’t read again. Rather than letting them gather dust, give them to a friend with a personalized printable bookmark.
Day 14: Leave a love note in a stranger’s mailbox
Some are saddened by Valentine’s Day and could be feeling especially alone. Be sure to spread the love by leaving love notes in stranger’s mailboxes.
What other random acts of kindness would you add to this kindness calendar? Remember, you can do these things all year round and not just in the days leading up to Valentine’s Day. Spreading kindness offers a mood boost for both the giver and the receiver, so do as much as you can to be kind to others this year.
Author Bio
Elsie is a content marketing specialist who enjoys writing about a variety of topics, from lifestyle to technology to wellness. When she’s not putting pen to paper, she’s planning her next trip abroad or hiking local trails.
Let’s be honest, when it’s your first pregnancy, you are showered with gifts and attention and the spotlight is always on you.
Your partner, your family and friends constantly check on you and ask you how you are feeling, if there is anything you need or want. You feel like royalty and I loved every second of it.
But by your second, or third/fourth/fifth pregnancy, you have found yourself lost in the background in the story of your ever growing family. Ironically, by this time you are so exhausted from looking after your current little humans, that the body growing your newest addition needs more love and attention than ever before!
With the holidays fast approaching, if you are stumped on what to get that pregnant not first time mom-to-be in your life, here are a few ideas.
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust. Furthermore, I am not a medical professional and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. I am simply a mother who has been there and lived to tell the tale.
A Prenatal Massage
Whether it’s the first or the fifth pregnancy, a mom-to-be is sore all over. Her back aches, her neck hurts, she always has some strange shooting pain in some part of her body. A prenatal massage specializes on a growing mama’s needs. Although there is a very good chance she’s gonna snooze on that massage table, because… motherhood.
A Pedicure
By the middle of the second trimester, and for sure by the third, we can barely bend over to put on our shoes, never mind paint our toenails. Plus, for a NOT first time mom-to-be, there’s the added problem of having other children with their own busy schedules. So we can hardly remember the last time we did something just for ourselves. Sending a pregnant mom for a pedicure is one of the best gifts you can give her (and I love going just to sit in those massage chairs!)
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A Back or Foot Massager
Speaking of those massage chairs at the nail salon, how about one that we can use in the comfort of our own homes? Being able to sneak in a massage while watching our other children play is multi-tasking done right! This is a gift that will definitely keep on giving because we’ll also be able to use it postpartum, including while breastfeeding or as part of our regular self care routine. In fact, the luxury of being able to enjoy a massage while binge watching Grey’s Anatomy after the kids going to bed sounds heavenly!
I had one when I was pregnant with my first baby. I lived in it postpartum, those middle of the night feedings and sitting in a rocking chair all night. But that was 6 years ago. It’s worn out and I’ll admit, a little on the small side now… (it MUST have shrunk in the dryer). But a brand new comfy robe would be the perfect gift for a NOT first time mom-to-be. Make sure that it has some good pockets because we carry ALL the things: washcloths, pacifiers, baby monitor, phone. Bonus points for some new house shoes to go with it!
Zulily.com
A Subscription Box
A box full of goodies showing up her doorstep each month is enough to make a NOT first time mom-to-be tear up (not that it takes much). If you want her to feel special and remembered this is one of the nicest gift options. And where else would you go than Bump Boxes? They are specifically designed for the pregnant mama and contain high quality products that she’s probably never tried before but will be super excited to.
A 3D/4D Non-Diagnostic Ultrasound
There are several companies that offer non-diagnostic ultrasounds for expectant mothers nowadays. This is a great way for moms to get a look at their babies before they are born and have a keepsake of their pregnancies. It’s also a great gift for the entire family, including older siblings, and helps them feel more involved in the pregnancy. There are even mobile ultrasound companies that will perform the sessions in your own home! But they can be costly and are often neglected by moms in subsequent pregnancies. A gift certificate for one of these sessions would make an awesome gift.
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Hair Salon Gift Certificates
We want to get our hair done. We want to get it colored and cut and styled. We really do. But sometimes our kids’ ballet lessons are more important, or the van needs an oil change. So the money that we want to spend on ourselves needs to go somewhere else. We say we’ll do it “one day” and we throw our hair into a mom bun and move on. A gift certificate to her hair salon is the the gift of guilt free beautiful hair. That postpartum hair loss is about to do a number on her, so she might even want to use it after the baby arrives to help give her the much needed cool mom pick me up!
A Gift Certificate for Skip the Dishes(or her favorite restaurant)
This is not to use on her family when she doesn’t want to cook (although it could be!) No, these are for her to splurge on that order of chicken wings, mozzarella sticks and deep fried pickles after the kids are in bed and some strange craving hits her. One of the most thoughtful gifts I remember is our neighbors giving us a gift card for pizza place when our 2nd daughter came home. We were so grateful for such a small thing on those first few days of complete exhaustion.
A Self-Care Basket
Finally… give her all the self care products you can find! Face masks, moisturizers, lip balm, makeup, skin care, exfoliating scrubs, bath bombs, essential oils, deep conditioner, you name it! A NOT first time mom-to-be is even more guilty of neglecting self care throughout her pregnancy and afterwards so she needs as much encouragement as possible. Chances are, if she has the products in her home already, she’s more likely to make time to use them. This time of the year you can find self care products everywhere – or do your one stop shopping online at stores like Rocky Mountain Oils, Aveda or Well.ca.
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Hopefully some of these ideas inspire you when it comes to treating that expecting mom in your life. You also don’t have to wait until Christmas morning, a just because gift can be the best ones! We get so used to taking care of other people that it is nice to be remembered. Happy Gifting!
Mother’s Day is a holiday where we recognize moms for all the amazing things they do for others.
Mother’s day makes us think about all the diapers changed, meals cooked, loads of laundry washed, books read and baths given and wonder how a mom finds time to do it all in one day. And it becomes very clear that she’s given something up in order to achieve that. That “something” is usually self care.
Self care is so important, but in the struggle to reach perfect mom status, we spend more energy than we have. This leads to mental health issues, stress, anxiety, rage, insomnia and even physical pain. In other words, it IS a big deal. And there’s no better occasion than Mother’s Day to focus on mom’s needs for a change.
This year, consider these Mother’s Day gift ideas for the mom in your life who might need a little extra help getting in that self care time.
*This is a sponsored post, meaning that I received compensation in order to promote some of these products, and it may contain affiliate links. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust.
Self care is so important for hardworking moms. And it’s not uncommon if she has neglected herself in order to take care of the needs of her family instead. Check out some of these self care inspired gifts to remind her that she is loved and recognized for her hard work.
The Nectar Mattress
Sleep is one of the best gifts you can give to a mother. Let her sleep in, let her stay in bed all day binge watching Netflix and get up with the kids in the middle of the night if need be. If you really want to prove how important her sleep is to you, invest in a brand new mattress. This one from Nectar comes with a forever guarantee plus a 365 day free trial so you can’t go wrong.
BlanQuil by Nectar
If an entire new mattress is not an option, at least splurge on a luxurious weighted blanket. Using a weighted blanket has been proven to reduce symptoms of anxiety, stress and insomnia. The deep pressure touch therapy will also help over touched moms find relaxation at the end of the day.
Shine The Light On
The modern, casual clothing line from Shine The Light On is perfect for lounging around the house, but also great for running errands, doing school pick ups or watching soccer practice. Bonus points for helping to spread mental health awareness! Use coupon code RUNINTRIANGLES15 for 15% off your purchase!
Rocky Mountain Oils
Aromatherapy is an easy way for moms to experience healing benefits. Use a diffuser in the bedroom to induce better sleep, the office to encourage productivity, or the living room where she can go about her day and let the essential oils work their magic. And an aromatherapy diffuser that comes with a set of the most popular essential oils makes gift giving super simple.
Amazon.com
One of the best (and only) ways for a mom to relax in a house full of children is by with some noise canceling headphones. A wireless, Bluetooth version will ensure she can go anywhere in peace and quiet. Make sure to create a playlist for her on Spotify and let her escape to a world away from snack making and diaper changing.
Read more about thermotherapy here
I will promote a spa day for every single holiday, but a spa visit might not be an option this year. A Spa Finder gift card is always available and can be used at so many locations that when quarantine is over, she can have her pick.
Amazon.com
Skin care is often neglected by moms due to the cost and time associated with it. So skin care gifts can mean a lot to a mom in need of some pampering. If you’re not sure where to begin looking, then consider products that are popular and trendy such as this Anti-Aging Vitamin C Serum that has over 3,000 positive reviews on Amazon. Or, the ever popular Aztec Secret Indian Healing Clay. If you’re looking for something organic, try the TOHI Skin Care Line from Rocky Mountain Oils.
HoMedics
She’s on her feet all day long so a foot massage is an awesome Mother’s Day gift idea. Not only does it encourage her to sit still for a little while, but it works out all the tension she’s been holding onto. This shiatsu food massager from HoMedics has various different controls plus heat!
Indigo.ca
Journaling can also be a great outlet for creativity. Bullet journals are all the rage right now and combine writing with art for a wholesome experience. A One Line A Day journal can help a busy mom keep track of her moods, memories and document exciting changes as the kids grow. It’s a great gift that would be easy to incorporate into any mom’s lifestyle.
Sincerely Silver
A main reason why moms neglect self care is because they feel guilty. So this Mother’s Day, make sure that she feels proud to take care of herself. Get her this mama bear necklace to remind her that she is like the mama bear, who stays strong in order to take care of her babies. And that taking care of herself is one of the best ways she can take care of her family.
Valentine’s Day is not just for new couples and first loves, it’s a great day to show the woman you love how beautiful and special you still find her, now that she’s a mother.
It’s easy for postpartum moms to feel unattractive and vulnerable since the focus has shifted to the baby and she has little time for self care. She likely doesn’t feel “in the mood” for anything, and if she’s experiencing the baby blues, postpartum depression or anxiety, her mental state may also be suffering.
Valentine’s Day can be a great excuse to go all out and remind her of how much you love her. Of course, you can’t go wrong with roses, chocolates and a card telling her how much she’s appreciated.
But if you’re looking to make it extra special for her this year, check out one of these awesome Valentine’s Day gift ideas.
*This post contains affiliate and/or sponsored links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust.
Jewelry
Roman Numeral Necklace by Sincerely Silver
Jewelry is perhaps the most popular Valentine’s Day gift. For a postpartum mom, you can put a twist on it by getting her a piece engraved with her child’s birth date, like this roman numeral bar necklace from Sincerely Silver.
Not only is it a classic and unique way to display the date that her life changed forever, but also, a piece that can be handed down to that child when they grow up. Available in rose gold or sterling silver, this personalized gift could easily become a family heirloom and would be cherished for years to come. Check out the entire line of personalized jewelry from Sincerely Silver.
Aromatherapy
Rocky Mountain Oils
Aromatherapy is a great gift for any postpartum mom, as it encourages healing, mental well being and self-care. For a Valentine’s Day gift, consider some massage oils or a his and hers roll on set that you can use together. You can check out the Rocky Mountain Oils Valentine’s Day Gift Guide for more great aromatherapy gift ideas.
The Gift of Better Sleep
Photo by Liana Mikah on Unsplash
Nothing says “I love you” to a mom better than the gift of sleep.Sleep deprivation can have dreadful effects on her mental health, so make sure that she gets as much sleep as possible.
Turning the bedroom into a sleep sanctuary is a grand Valentine’s Day gift idea. If you’ve been considering a new mattress, there’s no better time to splurge on one than now. Try the Nectar mattress, which guarantees it’s comfort so strongly, that they give you a free trial for an entire year.
For a postpartum mom, a spa day is exactly what she needs. After the trauma on her body from pregnancy, labor and delivery, it needs some pampering. February is a great time to visit an outdoor thermotherapy spa for a unique experience.
Many spas offer deals and discounts on couple massages around Valentine’s Day. Or make it simple and get her a Spafinder gift card so that she can book the spa day of her dreams [use code SPALOVE to get 10% off]. Click here for more spa day gift ideas, including local promotions and travel deals from SpaFinder Wellness 365.
Framed Family Photos
mixbook.com
The addition of a new baby means your family dynamic has changed forever. It’s time to get a family photo done, or even just a candid shot of mom and baby. It’s one thing to have a million and one photos on your phone or computer, but printing them out, framing them and hanging them up on the walls is a great way to make those memories last.
A meaningful Valentine’s Day gift idea would be to get a favorite photo printed on canvas or framed from Mixbook. Babies grow so quickly, so being able to look back at this time is a great way to remember the love and joy from these early days.
Makeup and beauty products will slowly fall to the bottom of the shopping list, following diapers and baby food. It’s a natural progression and many mothers are happy to do it without complaint. So what better time than Valentine’s Day to restock her makeup bag and let her pamper herself for once?
Lotions, lipsticks, nail polish and perfume are all simple gifts that are easy to buy for anyone. Gift cards are always a welcome option, so pick one up for Sephora, Nars, Aveda, her favorite nail salon or even the local drugstore.
A Romantic Getaway
Photo by Paolo Rosa on Unsplash
A trip to Mexico might not be practical for a newly postpartum mom, but a romantic getaway can come in many forms. The postpartum period is tough on relationships, so spending some time together can help you connect.
Whether it’s a night at a hotel, a weekend at a resort or a drive out to the country – take the time to be with each other and concentrate on something other than feedings and diapers. Check out all kinds of different getaway ideas for great deals on Tripnado.
A Subscription Box
The Mommy Mailbox
FabFitFun – This popular seasonal box is delivered four times a year and lets subscribers choose from a selection of different products. They are filled with luxury name brands and will provide any postpartum mom with enough self care products to get her through each season.
The Mommy Mailbox– a box full of things designed specifically to brighten up a mom’s day! You can choose a subscription up to 6 months to help get her through the difficult postpartum period.
Blume– This is the ultimate self-care subscription box! Postpartum moms can dread the return of “that time of the month” because they haven’t had to deal with it during their pregnancy (and possibly longer if they were breastfeeding) so it becomes just one more thing they need to worry about. Take the stress out of it with this monthly subscription box that includes organic pads and tampons, specially formulated cramp oil, acne and face washes and more!
InstaCandy– Take the box of Valentine’s Day chocolate up a notch with a regular monthly delivery of candy.
Like the idea of a delivered box full of goodies but not ready to commit to a monthly subscription? Check out the Pampered Mommy Box! Their “Best of” Box is full of surprise goodies valued over $100!
Moms who are sleep deprived are normally less than enthusiastic about celebrating holidays and special events.
You can make them special by getting her a gift that will help beat sleep deprivation. Sleep deprivation can cause physical and mental problems for mothers, whether it’s caused by a new baby, postpartum depression, anxiety, or just the normal duties of motherhood. These specially selected gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom are sure to make a difference for her.
If a mom in your life is suffering from sleep deprivation, consider one of these gift ideas to help her get a better night’s rest.
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust.
A New Mattress
Nectar Sleep
Go big or go home, am I right? Nothing says sleep like a brand new comfortable mattress. But this can be a tough one to give as a gift. It’s a really personal purchase that normally requires a person to try out several different ones before buying.
But times are changing. No longer do you need to go into a showroom and lie down on several different mattresses that all feel the same. You don’t need to spend a fortune or commit to an expensive purchase that you can’t return.
Mattress manufactures have gotten smarter. They’ve created beds that conform to fit us, rather than force us to choose one among many. And instead of putting all their effort into designing an entire line of different mattresses, they’ve combined their efforts into designing one perfect mattress. And because of this – they guarantee that it will be the best mattress you’ve ever had. They’ll even refund you up to a year after your purchase if you’re not happy.
With free shipping and that kind of promise, this mattress tops my list as the #1 perfect gift for the sleep deprived mom.
If you haven’t already heard, weighted blankets are the newest all-natural cure for anxiety and insomnia.
There’s not much to them. They’re blankets filled with beads or pellets and come in a variety of different exteriors such as cotton, flannel, fleece or microfiber. The idea is that using one to sleep will embrace the body in a state of continuous, light pressure, which can stimulate the nervous system and help fight insomnia. The benefits are similar to that of a deep tissue massage.
There are tons of companies selling weighting blankets now, and you can even DIY one. But if you’re looking for gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom, then consider a weighted blanket that gives a little deeper.
Weighting Comfortsis a company that sells weighted blankets made by international refugees. So you can rest assured that when you purchase one of these weighted blankets, you are also contributing to the future and well being of others. What could be a more perfect holiday gift than that?
CBD oil is still a bit of a controversial product, mostly because of it’s association with cannabis. But CBD products from reputable companies are produced from the hemp plant, and not the marijuana plant, so it contains zero amounts of THC – which is the stuff that causes a high. For more information, check out this post from Remedy Review.
Similar to other all-natural essential oils, CBD offers a ton of benefits to those suffering from pain or anxiety. It comes in a variety of different options, from oils to edibles.
These CBD honey sticks from Diamond CBD offer a low dose (10 mg) of CBD in a stick of honey, so they’re great for mixing into a cup of tea or eating directly. Or you can check out all the different CBD options from VerifiedCBD, which offers international shipping and will let you know which products you can (or cannot) get in your country. CBD can help treat symptoms of postpartum depression or anxiety that can cause insomnia, so that mom can sleep better and feel better.
Some Comfy Sleepwear
Zulily
Comfortable sleepwear is a mom’s best friend… even if she’s not getting much sleep. One of the best gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom, whether she’s newly postpartum, a stay-at-home mom or a working mom, is something comfortable she can slip into at bedtime.
While this may not be true for all women, many find sleeping with pajama pants on difficult after having a baby. Whether it’s from a c-section scar, stretch marks or extra weight around the middle, our bodies change postpartum. A nightgown is much more comfortable for that reason.
One of my favorite places to shop for clothing, including sleepwear, is on Zulily. You can find pieces of great quality for a good deal and the selection is far greater than what you could find in a crowded mall.
Forget bath bombs. Moms rarely have time for a shower, never mind a bath. Instead, opt for shower steamers this year so that she can still get in all the relaxing spa-like benefits of a shower, without the time consuming restraints of a bath.
Hot showers before bed are a great way to wind down and can help ease symptoms of anxiety and insomnia for a better night’s sleep. Add in some sleep-inducing essential oils and they make a great gift or stocking stuffer.
This list of gift ideas would not be complete without some essential oils. The benefits of essential oils for sleep and relaxation are some that I can personally vouch for. A variety of essential oils is one of the top gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom.
For mothers who are sleep deprived, self care can make a huge difference in their overall mood and quality of life. Granted, it’s not always an easy thing to fit in. With the use of a diffuser, moms can benefit from the healing power of essential oils quickly and effortlessly.
The age old practice of reading in bed is still a good one. Except that now, we scroll on our phones, thinking that it has the same effect. News flash – it’s not even close!
The bright light of the screen plus the negative effects of comparing ourselves to our social media friends means even worse consequences for the already sleep deprived mother.
So buy her a book.An actual paper book with a positive and interesting topic, such as The Sleep Revolution from Arianna Huffington, co-founder of The Huffington Post. Not only will she be able to focus her brain on something useful, but she’ll learn all kinds of brilliant information about sleep and how important it is.
You know what suffers the most due to sleep deprivation? The eyes. The windows to our souls can be bloodshot, dry and puffy when we don’t get enough sleep. Sleep deprivation can also cause headaches, migraines and sinus problems.
And how do you treat all those different problems? Heat is great for headaches and sinus problems, but cold is better for redness and puffiness.
White noise is a useful way to drown out an overactive brain. Many new mothers can’t fall asleep because they’re always listening to hear the baby cry. Or perhaps it’s the anxious or intrusive thoughts that are filling her head at night.
A white noise machine is a great tool for helping to reduce stress and drown out background noises so she get better sleep.
This Sleep Therapy Machine from HoMedics is actually a bit more than your average sound machine. It has a patent-pending deep sleep therapy program that uses a specific combination of sounds to keep you sleeping all night long.
Okay, first off, hydration… super important for everyone, especially the sleep deprived. I don’t think I even need to go into detail about drinking enough water, because we all know it’s important.
But THIS water bottle is extra special. It combines the important hydration factor with the healing power of gemstones such as amethyst and quartz. It’s said that immersing gemstones in water can actually increase their potency and charge the water with negative ions to boost serotonin.
Maybe it works, maybe it doesn’t – but isn’t this the most beautiful water bottle you’ve ever seen? Of all the gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom, this is one of the most beautiful AND useful.
Tea makes a great gift for the sleep deprived mom. It’s important to choose an herbal, non-caffeinated one, but the varieties are basically endless. A tea that contains Valerian Root will help to induce sleep naturally. You can also go with the ever popular Chamomile tea.
You can find tea and mug gift sets almost everywhere, probably because they make such great gifts. But the trick to making it a special, personalized gift is to choose the perfect mug.
Our skin truly suffers when we don’t get enough sleep. And moms are infamous for not having a proper skin care routine, so a set of skin care products will be a welcome gift for the sleep deprived mom.
The TOHI set by Rocky Mountain Oils is completely natural and infused with healing essential oils. It’s not the typical set you’d be able to find in drugstores.
The TOHI starter kit comes with a muscle rub, cleanser and lotions for the face and body – but most importantly, it comes with the amazing Night’s Rest lotion. This hand and body lotion contains some of the best essential oils for promoting sleep, as well as ingredients to hydrate and moisturize the skin. It’s one step up from your average skin care routine, and it will encourage her to practice regular self care.
What sleep deprived mom wouldn’t love a spa day this winter? Make it easy on yourself and on her by getting her a SpaFinder gift card. She can choose from thousands of locations, book exactly which treatments she wants and it never, ever expires so she can procrastinate it until the kids are in college – but it will still be waiting for her…
P.S. You can buy one online and print or e-mail it so it’s the perfect last-minute gift!
Pure, undisturbed sleep is one of the best gift ideas for the sleep deprived mom any time of the year. So take the kids out for the day and just let her sleep. It’s amazing what an extra 8 hours of sleep can do to improve our moods and help us function better. For more information on the dangers of sleep deprivation for new moms, check out some of these posts.
Holidays can be exciting. But what about when they’re not?
For many people, the holidays can be stressful and offer more to dread than look forward to. Mothers suffering from a mood disorder can feel an added amount of pressure to make things special when they really don’t feel up to it and anxiety can worsen with all of the extra socializing. And anyone who has lost a loved one may miss them more than usual around the holidays.
Between the cold weather, long stretches of darkness and the financial strain of the holidays, it’s no wonder that up to 20% of people report suffering from seasonal affective disorder.
If someone you love is feeling down around the holidays, then consider one of these gifts from Etsy that are sure to boost anyone’s mood.
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust.
Light Therapy
Warm, soft lighting is a great mood booster. One thing that often makes us feel down during the winter is the lack of sunshine. Anything that simulates natural light will help to boost our mood naturally.
NewMoonBeginnings on Etsy
This lamp from NewMoonBeginnings is made from raw, natural Selenite, which is a crystal used for cleansing negative energy.
Himalayan Salt Lamp
Himalayan salt lamps are also very popular for their healing benefits and soft lighting. They are great for cleansing and purifying the air in a room and can promote a better night’s sleep.
BreatheintheLight on Etsy
Candlelight is another great way to boost your mood and add that hygge home vibe through the winter months. This set of Christmas scented candles makes a great gift idea!
Inspirational Messages
Quotes and sayings that inspire us have a way of boosting our mood, both directly and subconsciously. Being surrounded by inspirational messages, whether it’s a framed print in our designated self care sanctuary, or worn on clothing and accessories, is a great way to remind someone of how strong they really are.
RaincityPrints on Etsy
RaincityPrints does some beautiful work on famous inspirational quotes including everything from Buddha to the Gilmore Girls. You can have it professionally printed in different sizes, or get it in a digital file and print it yourself (a great last-minute gift idea)!
StampinStitchin on Etsy
These gorgeous minimal cuff bracelets have a mantra engraved on them so not only will you look stylish, but you’ll have a little mood boost with you wherever you go.
TattooMoments on Etsy
Believe it or not, these are temporary tattoos! This collection from TattooMoments includes 14 tattoos that can last up to 7 days. This is a great way to show off a motivational message without the commitment of a permanent tattoo.
Download these 4 FREE 8 x 10 Inspirational Prints in the Running in Triangles Free Resource Library, available exclusively to subscribers of the Postpartum Depression Survival Guide. Click here to subscribe.
The Gift of Comfort
Perhaps it’s our natural instinct to want to hibernate come cold weather, but nothing makes us feel happier than being warm and cozy. Comfort gifts are a great mood booster, not only because they make us feel good, but also because receiving one is like getting permission to be lazy all day.
LittleMimis on Etsy
If you’re gonna give a blanket as a gift this year, then you have to go with a weighted blanket. There are so many benefits of a weighted blanket for someone suffering from depression, anxiety or insomnia. Even those without a mental health condition will still benefit from the comfort of a weighted blanket. It’s like being wrapped in a giant hug. This one from LittleMimis comes in different weights, colors and patterns and can even be custom embroidered.
WineALittleGifts on Etsy
These socks are a great way of telling your loved one to put their feet up and relax. Don’t worry if they’re not a wine drinker because WineALittleGifts sells over 100 different designs, so you’re sure to find the right pair!
LaAquarelle on Etsy
Sleep deprivation can have a negative effect on a person’s mood. Help your loved one get better night’s sleep with this sleep mask set from LaAquarelle. It comes in a choice of organic fabrics and includes a lavender sachet you can put under your pillow to help you sleep.
Meditation Tools
Meditation and mindfulness are great ways to improve your mood. Even for a beginner, the practice of meditation can be easily incorporated into anyone’s self-care routine. While actual “tools” aren’t a necessity for meditation, there are several gift ideas that can help to enhance the experience.
EssentialRays on Etsy
Aromatherapy is an excellent mood booster and supplement to meditation. The wide variety of aromatherapy jewelry has become more popular and makes your favorite essential oils portable and easy to utilize. Check out this Etsy shop for a huge selection of beautiful pieces including necklaces, lockets, bracelets and more!
SilentMindBowls on Etsy
Tibetan singing bowls have been used in meditation for thousands of years. The tone they produce is designed to help relax the mind and body and drown out background noise to aid in focus and concentration. These bowls from SilentMindBowls are not only a stunning art piece, but useful for meditation and relaxation as well.
AirLifeGreenery on Etsy
Indoor plants have so many incredible mood boosting benefits. Being surrounded by lush greenery indoors while everything lays dead and dormant outdoors is one way to keep spirits up during the winter. Choose a low maintenance option, such as this set of 12 air plants from AURAMORE. Air plants are a great way to incorporate greenery without needing to worry about pots and soil. Check out some of these air plant holders from Air Life Greenery.
Encourage Creativity
Being bored and cooped up inside the house during winter will put anyone in a bad mood. For the holidays this year, consider giving the gift of creativity. If your loved one already has a hobby, then you’re off to a good start. But here are a few suggestions if they’re looking for something new to keep their mind distracted and to help lift their mood.
KirstenBurkeDesign on Etsy
The art of calligraphy is so modern and popular right now. It’s also an art form that isn’t time-consuming, tedious or strenuous and offers a lot of different applications. With this beginner’s set from KirstenBurkeDesign, anyone can learn this fantastic skill, all while keeping busy to beat the winter blues.
DOODLELovelyNow on Etsy
Coloring and doodling offers a simple way to turn off the brain and soothe the mind. Using an array of bright colors can also work as a mood booster on the dark, grey days of December. This doodle journal from DOODLELovelyNow gives you space to write, doodle, color and more!
WoolCoutureCompany
There are so many different ways to encourage creativity. Crafting of any kind can make a person feel proud and accomplished, but it’s also a way to ban boredom during the winter months. On Etsy, you’ll be able to find so many different DIY crafting kits, such as this beginner weaving loom kit. Some other popular favorites include a macrame kit, a beaded embroidery kit and paint by number sets.
Give the Gift of Etsy
If you didn’t see something specific on this list that appealed to you, or if you just couldn’t decide, then consider giving an Etsy gift card instead. It can be printed or emailed to the recipient so it makes a great last-minute gift. And with thousands upon thousands of different things to choose from, it’s a gift that will definitely put a smile on someone’s face.
I know, firsthand, how difficult winter can be – no matter how much you love the holidays. The extreme high of celebrating with family and friends ends so abruptly, that it’s common for people to feel depressed shortly after the holidays are over. By giving a gift specifically to help boost their mood, you’re encouraging long-term happiness.
Holidays can be difficult to celebrate for a woman suffering from postpartum depression.
What should be a happy time spent making memories, instead reminds her of the pain and shortcomings she’s felt since becoming a mother. When shopping for a gift for a mother with postpartum depression, look for something that is considerate of her condition. Not all gifts are appropriate for a woman who feels guilty or unworthy of being a mother and can make her feel worse than she already does.
Here are some ideas for gifts for mothers with postpartum depression.
*This post contains affiliate and/or paid links which means that if you click on one of these links and buy a product, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. Rest assured that I only recommend products that I love from companies that I trust. Furthermore, I am not a medical professional and nothing in this post should be taken as medical advice. I am simply a mother who has been there and lived to tell the tale.
Personalized Jewelry
GracePersonalized on Etsy
Don’t just buy her a generic diamond necklace. Look for a piece that includes her children and family so that when she wears it, she will be reminded of who she’s fighting for in the first place.
A beautiful option is this fingerprint necklace from GracePersonalized on Etsy. Having a necklace that contains her child’s fingerprint, hand or footprints will remind her that she created an entire unique person. But the kids aren’t the only things keeping her going. I like this lovebirds necklace from MenuetDesigns on Etsy because it speaks volumes of how important a strong support system is. Sincerely Silver is another great site to find a unique, personalized piece that’s extra meaningful.
So instead of a bouquet of flowers, get her a houseplant or a DIY terrarium kit. Gardening or growing indoor plants is an excellent form of self-care as well and can become something that not only keeps her mind distracted, but brightens up her living area as well. If she doesn’t have a green-thumb, get her a book about gardening instead.
Bonding with baby can be tough for a mother with postpartum depression. Matching t-shirts, outfits or hats might seem cheesy, but it can make her feel more connected to baby and remind her of the special connection they share.
A Monthly Subscription Box
BumpBoxes
In the category of gifts for a mother with postpartum depression, monthly subscription boxes should be at the top the list! Chances are, she doesn’t want to go out and shop for herself. Even some of the basic necessities she needs become less of a priority for her. Having something delivered to her door is a wonderful surprise that she can look forward to each month.
Here are a few that I would recommend for a mother with postpartum depression:
Bump Boxes – If she’s expecting or just had a baby, then definitely sign her up for a Bump Box! They’re monthly boxes tailored for each trimester of pregnancy. You can also order a breastfeeding box, a new mommy to be box and a variety of newborn boxes.
Blume– Formerly known as Ellebox. This is the ultimate self-care subscription box! Mothers with postpartum depression can dread “that time of the month” especially because they haven’t had to deal with it during their pregnancy (and possibly longer if they were breastfeeding) so it becomes just one more thing they need to handle. The addition of the mood swings and cramping can become overbearing for someone who’s already suffering so much. Take the stress out of it with this monthly subscription box that includes organic pads and tampons, specially formulated cramp oil, acne and face washes and more!
Callia Flowers – A monthly bouquet of fresh cut flowers delivered to her doorstep is sure to brighten the day of any new mother. Callia’s bouquets are specifically designed to be long lasting and sourced with local flowers.
InstaCandy– who doesn’t love candy? Getting a box of candy delivered to your door every month is sure to brighten up the darkest of days.
Like the idea of a delivered box full of goodies but not ready to commit to a monthly subscription? Check out the Pampered Mommy Box! Their “Best of” Box is full of surprise goodies valued over $100!
A Customized Photo Book
Mixbook.com
Photos can have a lot of meaning for a woman with postpartum depression. Looking back at pictures of happier times can be an excellent way to relieve stress and help keep her connected to those memories. Creating a photo book filled with pictures of baby can also help to connect her to her child and reduce some of the guilt that often comes along with missing out on those first few months. A photo book is sure to be something she will cherish long after she has recovered from the darkness of postpartum depression.
You can create fully customized photo books and/or prints at Mixbook.com.
Self-Care Products
It goes without saying that self-care is SO important for moms to keep up good mental health. This category of gifts offers such a wide variety of choices, depending on what’s most important to the mother in your life. A robe, bath bombs, self care boxed sets, or a massage unit are all great gifts for her to use on a daily basis to make sure that she’s getting in regular self-care.
The best self-care gifts for a mother with postpartum depression are things that she can use regularly, don’t consume too much of her precious time, and can help her relax and take care of herself.
If you want to really want to give her the gift of self-care, then splurge on a spa day!Click here to purchase a Spa Finder Gift Card that she can use at thousands of different locations. It’s available to print or e-mail so it makes a great last-minute gift too!
Essential oils and aromatherapy can have a big impact on a mother with postpartum depression. This 12 pc essential oil gift set is a great way for a new mom to begin to incorporate essential oils into her life. Plus, a diffuser makes a great gift, with so many styles to choose from and makes it easy to enjoy the benefits all day long.
You know what mothers with postpartum depression REALLY want? A personal assistant…
The Amazon Echo smart speaker connects to “Alexa” a voice-based personal assistant. The best part is that Alexa will respond to anyone’s voice, as long as they call her by name. So older kids who ask a million questions a day or want to hear their favorite song over and over again – can now ask Alexa instead of Mom.
Alexa can also look things up online, tell jokes, keep notes, make lists and reminders, play music and make phone calls – all completely hands free! It’s one of the best gifts for a mother with postpartum depression who is suffering from a severe case of foggy brain!
Journaling Equipment
Indigo.ca
Writing about postpartum depression is one of the best therapies available. It’s a great way to get all those dark feelings out of the brain and onto paper. A journal is a great gift option for a mother who needs to express her feelings. Bullet journals are the latest trend right now. You can eve find printable bullet journal kits on Etsy to create a one of a kind personalized gift.
Coloring Books
Indigo.ca
There’s a huge difference between coloring with the kids, and coloring by yourself. I, myself, have recently jumped on the adult coloring book train, and it’s an incredible way to release stress and shut off the brain for a few moments.
There are adult coloring books everywhere these days so you’re sure to find one that suits the mom you’re shopping for. My favorite ones are the patterns or the inspirational quotes, but there are also ones with swears for the moms who really need to let it all out.
Remember: One of the best gifts for mothers with postpartum depression is your love, support and understanding…
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