It is the holiday season again and that means time with family and friends, hot cocoa, and shopping for Christmas presents! After getting diagnosed with Inflammatory Bowel Disease, I found that what I was asking for each Christmas was different than prior to my illness. This really got me thinking: what are some great gift ideas for friends and family who struggle with a chronic illness? In this gift guide, I am laying out some of the best gifts for those battling a chronic illness. The best part? Most of these gifts are relatively inexpensive!
1) XXL Ultra-Wide Microplush Heating Pad, $45, Amazon
(Picture: Amazon)
Heating pads are a must for those who have recently undergone surgery or deal with pain daily. There is a diverse selection of heating pads that are catered to certain areas of the body such as the shoulders, neck, back, head, etc. This particular heating pad is an extra large blanket-style that is great for covering large areas of your body to help relieve some of your pain.
2) Adult Coloring Book, $7, Amazon
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Art can be very therapudic and adult coloring books are no different. These coloring books are a little more complex than the traditional children's coloring book and can provide hours of entertainment and relaxation, especially for a loved one who is recovering from surgery or in the hospital. Pair this with a box of colored pencils and you have the perfect, thoughtful gift.
3) Dehydration Relief Basket
DripDrop ORS Hydration Packets, $9.99/ 8 packets, DripDrop
Hydro Flask 18 oz. Double Wall Vacuum Insulated Water Bottle, $30-$60, Amazon
(Picture: DripDrop)
For many with a chronic illness, dehydration can be a big part of our lives and one of the most common challenges we face. Putting together a dehydration gift basket is a great way to give your loved one something truly useful. I have been using DripDrop ORS packets to help curb dehydration without a colon for years now and I can truthfully vounch for how amazing it works. Not only does DripDrop ORS work great, but it tastes so much better than the other oral rehydration options on the market.
4) ZonLi Weighted Blanket, $123, Amazon
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Weighted blankets can be a little on the pricey side, but they are completely worth the cost. The weight of a weighted blanket can be very calming for those who suffer for from anxiety and/ or chronic pain. I have used my weighted blanket during challenging times in my recovery and it is so relaxing.
5) Lush Bath Bombs, $5-$10, Lush
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Self-care is so important, which is what makes Lush bath bombs the perfect gift for someone who needs a little rest and relaxation. Simply pop these delicious-smelly bath bombs into your bath and watch them fizz into a rainbow of different colors.
6) An Essential Oil Diffuser, $17, Amazon
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Essential oils have a number of benefits on your body and mind making it a great gift for a loved one going through a stressful time in their life. My favorite essential oil to diffuse is lavendar for its very calming nature.
7) Aromatherapy Heated Flax Pillow, $26+, Etsy
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Keeping on the self-care trend, I recently discovered the these aromatherapy bags and they are amazing! Filled with flax seed or barley, these bags can be frozen or heated to help relieve pain. My favorite way to use them is by putting them in the microwave because it really brings out the smells of lavendar and other natural ingredients. I carry a lot of tension in my lower back from my compromised core so these are perfect for helping to relieve that.
8) Lapdesk Table Bed Tray, $43, Amazon
(Picture: Amazon)
If your loved one spends a lot of time in bed resting and recovering, a bed table is an essential. Not only does this table make a good place to place a laptop but it functions as a tray for eating and drinking as well. It is adjustable to ensure the most stable fit and an overall great, useful gift.
So there you have it: some of the best self-care gift ideas for yourself or a loved one! The holiday season can be overwhelming, but it is important to not let your health suffer as a result. Take time to take care of your body to ensure that you can enjoy the holiday season as happy and healthy as possible. Happy Holidays!