5 Chic Winter Fashion Tips for Expecting Moms

We are big believers that busy moms can still have functional and fashionable wardrobes.

When it comes to winter fashion, expectant moms often struggle.  Any mother can tell you that, while pregnant, there’s a whole separate set of fashion challenges to face. Simply put, your body is changing, and this can leave even the most confident of fashionistas uncertain about how to dress. This is especially true during the winter, when it can seem that all maternity clothing consists of bulky outerwear and unflattering sweaters, without too many stylish options mixed in.

Thankfully, there are so many comfortable pieces that can be found outside of the maternity section that will keep you stylish and warm, and fit just fine.

So here are five chic, cozy winter fashion staples for moms-to-be!
5 Chic Winter Fashion Tips for Expecting Moms
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Turtleneck Dress

Elizabeth & James - Refinery 29
Elizabeth & James – Refinery 29

A figure-hugging turtleneck dress is a great way to show off your adorable baby bump without really feeling confined or compressed. There are actually a lot of good options for this kind of garment making the rounds this winter season, though we’d have to say Elizabeth and James’ latest turtleneck dress is a particularly festive choice. The Clementine Space-Dye Wool Turtleneck Dress from the brand looks like something straight out of a 1970s fashion magazine – which, with vintage looks trendier than ever, is always a major bonus!

Not First Time Mom to Be Gift Guide
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Fleece Lined Footless Tights

Even when you aren’t pregnant, fleece lined footless tights can be life savers when temperatures drop. They’re also quite handy, given that they’re fairly versatile and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For instance, some of these tights paired with a jersey top and tennis shoes is an adorable look when you have to head out on some holiday errands – but you’d also look incredible rocking the tights with a sequined silver sweater and a pair of chunky black boots at your next festive get-together. The main draw of these pieces for expecting mothers specifically, though, is that they’re super stretchy, meaning they can adjust and last through the duration of your pregnancy.

Wool-Blend Long Plaid Coat

Wool Blend Long Plaid Coat - Woman Within
Wool Blend Long Plaid Coat – Woman Within

A plaid wool coat is arguably one of the classiest types of winter fashion outerwear you can buy. Typically though, some pregnant women may feel that wool coats can be too restrictive (especially during the last trimester). A long, more relaxed version of the coat, however, can be just the thing. The brand Woman Within presents a number of coats and jackets suitable for all sizes, and happens to have a Wool-Blend Long Plaid Coat that perfectly combines the chic quality of the garment with the inclusive fit so many moms-to-be will appreciate. Its flattering cut will suit any body type, and it can even be worn open if it’s not too cold outside.

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Boyfriend Jeans

A good pair of blue jeans is always a winter fashion essential (if not a year-’round one) but wearing denim can be somewhat tricky during pregnancy. It’s not the most forgiving fabric, particularly with a new pair, and so it can be difficult to find a pair of jeans that is both comfortable and fashionable. But this is where boyfriend jeans come in. These jeans – which tend to have a far more generous cut and relaxed design – happen to be very much “on trend,” and will look great with other seasonal staples, such as a black thermal top and a cozy cardigan.

Billowy Jumpsuit

Asymmetrical Wide Leg Jumpsuit - Who What Wear
Asymmetrical Wide Leg Jumpsuit – Who What Wear

Lastly, if you’re in a bind and can’t figure out to what to wear for a holiday party while pregnant, we’d suggest an always-fun billowy jumpsuit. For this season, the stylish designer Halston has a gorgeous option with a relaxed fit that’s well worth looking at, either as a specific option or simply as inspiration. The Asymmetrical Wide Leg Jumpsuit is designed in ultra-chic fashion, but made such that it’s roomy enough to remain comfortable during your pregnancy. A piece like this in white, or perhaps a festive red, can actually be quite the statement at your next holiday party!


Being pregnant can make some women feel extra large and unattractive over the holidays.  And no one wants to splurge on maternity wear they may only wear for a single season.  These winter fashion tips can help you enjoy your pregnancy, and the holidays, even when it’s cold outside.  And the best part is, they’ll likely be staples in your wardrobe for years to come!


Holiday Gift Guide for the NOT First Time Mom-To-Be

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.
Not First Time Mom to Be Gift Guide
*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.
Not First Time Mom to Be Gift Guide Not First Time Mom to Be Gift Guide

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!)

13 Things About Postpartum Depression All New Moms Need to Know
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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! 

Check out the full selection of back, neck and foot massagers available from HoMedics.com

A Comfy Robe with Pockets

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! 

Jess Sankar | Running in Triangles
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8 Awesome Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for the Postpartum Mom

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.

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 Sweetheart Collection
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.

The nights of cuddling each other to sleep might be long gone, but you can still get all the benefits with a weighted blanket.  Check out this line from Weighting Comforts.

A Spa Day

Why All Moms Need to Spend the Day at Thermea
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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.

Or consider getting her a custom made paint by numbers canvas from Winnie’s Picks made of a favorite photo.  She gets beautiful artwork AND the opportunity to be creative.

Restock her Makeup Bag

Photo by Jamie Street on Unsplash

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

Paolo Rosa on Unsplash
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

A Treat For Mom
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! 


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8 Awesome Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for the Postpartum Mom
8 Awesome Valentine's Day Gift Ideas for the Postpartum Mom

12 Thoughtful Gift Ideas for the Sleep Deprived Mom

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.
12 Thoughtful Gift Ideas for the Sleep Deprived Mom
*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.
Gift Ideas for Sleep Deprived Moms Gift Ideas for Sleep Deprived Moms

A New Mattress

Nectar
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.
Check it out here: runningintriangles.com/Nectar

A Weighted Blanket

COOLMAX® Weighted Blanket Light Grey
Weighting Comforts

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 Comforts is 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?

Check out their variety of weighted blankets here: runningintriangles.com/WeightingComforts

CBD Honey Sticks

CBD Honey Sticks - Honey Infused CBD 10mg (100 Pack)
Diamond CBD

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.

Check out some more brands and designs here: runningintriangles.com/Zulily

A Few Shower Steamers

TanyasEarthworks on Etsy

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 gift set from Etsy shop TanyasEarthworks comes with six shower steamers in a variety of scents. 
Or, check out this 10 pack of lavender shower steamers from Canadian Etsy shop Wildfire Aromatics.

An Essential Oil Gift Set

Essential Oil Diffuser Kit
Rocky Mountain Oils

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.

This diffuser kit from Rocky Mountain Oils comes with a cute but powerful little diffuser plus six popular essential oils and makes the perfect starter kit for any sleep deprived mom.  Or you can opt for some essential oils designed specifically to promote sleep.

Check out this set and others here: runningintriangles.com/RockyMountainOils

Some Reading Material

The Sleep Revolution
Chapters.Indigo

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.

Click here to buy and read reviews about The Sleep Revolution by Arianna Huffington.

If you’re looking to give a sleep deprived mom a little laugh, then check out this book too.


A Multipurpose Eye Mask

farmerandfashionista on Etsy

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.

This multipurpose eye mask from Etsy shop FarmerandFashionista does all of that and more.  It’s made with organic materials and it can be used as a weighted eye mask as well, which can help to ease the symptoms of sinus problems and headaches.

Find out all about it here: Organic Weighted Sleep Mask by farmerandfashionista.

If it’s snoring that causing the sleep deprivation, then check out this cool high-tech sleep mask and app that helps train the body to stop snoring.

Hupnos, The High-Tech, Anti-Snoring Mask
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A Sound Machine

HoMedics Sleep Therapy Machine
HoMedics Deep Sleep Therapy Machine

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.

Click here to find out more and purchase The HoMedics Deep Sleep Sleep Therapy Machine.

An Extra Special Water Bottle

VitaJuwel Wellness ViA Glass Water Bottle
VitaJuwel Wellness ViA Glass Water Bottle

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.

Find out more and buy The ViA Glass Water Bottle here.

The Perfect Tea Mug

Chapters.Indigo Mood Mugs
Instagram @running_in_triangles

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.

Indigo has a great selection of different mugs available, check them out here!

All Natural Skin Care

TOHI by Rocky Mountain Oils

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.

Find out more about the TOHI skin care line here: runningintriangles.com/TOHI

Bonus Gift Idea: A Spa Day!

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! 

Quick – click here and make her dreams come true!!!
Why All Moms Need to Spend the Day at Thermea
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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.


16 Gifts That Will Boost Anyone’s Mood

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.
16 Gifts That Will 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.

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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. 

Christmas Candle Set Set of 3 or 6 Christmas Gifts Winter image 1
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.

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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)!

Customized inspirational mantra cuff image 1
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.

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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.

Weighted blanket. plush minky Charcoal & Black minky weighted image 1
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.  

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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.

Essential Oil Diffuser Necklace Diffuser Necklace Aromatherapy image 1
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!

Silent Mind Meditation bowl Tibetan Singing Bowl Set Beaten image 0
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.

7 Table Top Air Plant Holder  Air Plant Included image 1
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.

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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.

Creative Mind. Happy Soul. Doodle Journal Guided Journal image 0
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!

Weaving Loom Kit. Small rectangular lap loom. Learn to frame image 1
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.  


Celebrations
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.

Seasonal Affective Disorder
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16 Gifts That Will Boost Anyone's Mood 16 Gifts That Will Boost Anyone's Mood

16 Gifts That Will Boost Anyone's Mood 16 Gifts that will Boost Anyone's Mood 16 Gifts that will Boost Anyone's Mood