Most of us, even the coolest and calmest among us, are not completely immune from the stress of active lives, especially at this time of year when the days grow shorter and the demands of the holidays grow larger. The good news is that a little can often go a long way when it comes to stress relief. Sometimes, all it takes is a smile, a simple friendly exchange, or the perfect thoughtful gift.
Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “The first wealth is health,” and here at Banyan Botanicals we wholeheartedly agree. What better gift to give or receive than one that says, I care about you and your health. I care that you're stressed! So here are some relaxing-gift ideas for the stressed people in your life, or anyone you know who may be in need of some calming gifts and a caring gesture. That someone might even be you.
Anti-Stress Gift Ideas
Whether you're looking for relaxation gifts for her or for him, the following suggestions are meant to offer support to anyone who is stressed, overworked, or just plain exhausted.
Daily Routine Bundle
The nervous system really likes routine. Establishing a daily routine, however simple, is like giving the sympathetic nervous system a firm but gentle hug—in turn allowing it to feel safe and to relax, even if just a little. And remember, a little can go a long way to relieve stress. The recommended Daily Routine Bundle includes:
Tongue Cleaner
You might be surprised how effective and satisfying this one simple act can be in the morning. Tongue scraping is said to stimulate digestion and internal organs, improve your sense of taste, and reduce bacteria on the tongue that can cause bad breath. Try it. A tongue cleaner may take a little getting used to, but we think you (or your stressed friend) will like it.
Daily Swish Oil
After brushing your teeth, oil pulling further draws natural toxins from the tissues of the oral cavity. It is a soothing, stimulating, and refreshing way to complete your oral health routine. Lightly enhanced with peppermint and spearmint oils, Daily Swish Oil will leave you ready to greet your day with confidence and a fresh feeling mouth!
Naysa Oil
Aside from the many benefits of administering Nasya Oil, it feels good. Naysa helps to lubricate, cleanse, and protect the nasal passage, which helps to facilitate clear breathing and mental clarity. Breath alone can activate the parasympathetic nervous system, easing the stress response in the body. When we breathe easier, we feel better.
Daily Massage Oil
A central concept in Ayurveda is balance. So, to balance the stress of a fast-paced life, the first thing we can do is to slow down. And one way to do this is by starting the day with a compassionate, slow self-massage. Massage also helps to stimulate circulation and support the lymphatic system. Daily Massage Oil is a blend of three different oils infused with adaptogenic herbs that help to balance the effects of stress. It is lightly scented with a hint of lemon verbena and lavender.
Triphala
Triphala is made up of the three fruits amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki. It is naturally an excellent source of antioxidants and is gently cleansing and tonifying to the digestive tract. It also supports the circulatory, respiratory, and genitourinary systems. Another important, if not the most important, tenet of Ayurveda is healthy digestion and proper elimination, which helps to keep the doshas in balance. And a balanced body is a happy body!
Understanding the doshas and the part they play in a balanced body is another excellent gift. For an individualized approach to balance, we suggest taking the Ayurvedic Profile™ quiz. When we have a better understanding of our unique energies, we are better able to take care of ourselves and the ones we love.
Stress Ease
What's in a name? Stress Ease says it all, and gets right to the point. This formula is packed full of adaptogens, a classification of herbs known to support and modify the body's reaction to stress. A key aspect of adaptogens is their ability to adjust to a body's changing needs. With ashwagandha, shatavari, brahmi/gotu kola, amalaki, guduchi, and more, Stress Ease helps to strengthen the immune, nervous, and glandular systems. In short, these herbs help your body cope with stress in a quick and timely manner.
Tranquil Mind
Tranquil Mind is a fantastic herbal supplement that combines the relaxing effects of bhringaraj with other supportive herbs to help calm the mind and ease nervousness and tension, allowing for some peace and tranquility. What Stress Ease accomplishes in the body, Tranquil Mind does for the mind. This formula is especially good for that worrier in your life!
Soap
Let our soap wash your worries away! These are not just any soaps, but soaps infused with pure herbal essential oils and even lavender blossoms. Science has shown lavender and evergreen scents to be both relaxing and elevating to our mood. Soap makes a wonderfully simple anti-stress gift for anyone and everyone. Our Cedar Eucalyptus Soap is grounding and clarifying; Lavender Soap is soothing to the skin and the senses, helping to calm the nervous system and the mind; and our Neem Aloe Soap is cooling, soothing, and invigorating all at the same time—with vetiver essential oil and rosemary extract, it is a deliciously rich way to start or end the day.
Whatever the gift, remember—it really is the kind thought that counts. In the words of Lao Tzu, “Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates love.”
Look for our other gift guides for more Ayurvedic gift ideas.
