12 Gifts of Nourishment

At this time every year, my regular clients spread out appointments while simultaneously sharing their guilt for “cheating”, eating too much sugar, and feeling frustrated that busy-ness takes over their wellbeing regimen. The “I’m too busy to focus on myself right now” activities are supported by the idea that January “should be” calmer. Unfortunately, slacking on accountability and adhering to woos of wonderful treats, only a few weeks of indulgent holiday behaviors is enough to tip the scale. Habits of excess comprise intake of nutrients that support us during overwhelm. In no time we become under-nourished and over-spent – in all the ways!

We know better. We vow to do it differently next time: keep it simple, stick to a budget, clarify boundaries. We know when we do less – and “do” more intentionally – we appreciate more. This applies to gift-giving, as much as to self-care.

What if, instead of overindulging in peppermint bark, sugar cookies and buying presents we don’t need, we give ourselves – and others – the gift of nourishment. Meals can be as simple as consuming whole, nutrient-dense foods. Many gifts can focus on nourishment.

I’ve come up with some gift ideas that reach beyond extravagant kitchen gadgets for a self-proclaimed chef, or specialty delights for a foodie friend. Some ideas are about creating experiences, while others are about meeting a practical need to encourage deeper nourishment. These nourishing gift ideas range from cultivting wellness, adhering to food preferences, supporting responsible beverage consumption, honoring someone’s personal beliefs or food values, support culinary passions, being creative while on a budget, encouraging food craft, creating traditions, and reducing some financial, emotional, and social pressures of the season.

I’ve refined the list to 12 food- and nutrition-related suggestions, though I realize we can be nourished in more expansive ways.

1.     Take a friend out to eat at his/her favorite local restaurant or coffee shop, perhaps choosing one that procures food from regional farmers.

2.     Fill a reusable basket with food items specific to someone’s dietary or wellness needs.

3.     Create a “DIY” granola-making kit, sourdough bread-making kit, yogurt-making kit, etc. for someone committed to making more from scratch.

4.     Buy a gift card for someone to purchase their favorite (or needed) items from a local grocery store, health food store, or specialty shop.

5.     Buy a session with a health coach or nutritionist for someone who would benefit from personalized guidance with diet, nutrition, and/or mindful eating.

6.     Support local artisans who create useful items, like a hand-crafted wooden bowl, cutting board, or ceramic mug.

7.     Support local producers who create wellbeing items, like elderberry syrup, honey, and herbal tea blends.

8.     Purchase a non-toxic kitchen cookware item to replace a scratched, Teflon or aluminum item used frequently and, ideally, from a small business.

9.     Buy a healthy cookbook or foodie book from your local bookstore (consider my food memoir, “Clean Food, Messy Life: A food lover’s conscious journey back to self”).

10.  Make gifts of appreciation for teachers and co-workers, such as a traditional dessert with modified ingredients for a healthier treat.

11.  Host a gathering focused on sharing meals, like a big-batch soup swap or pasta-making party.

12.  Bake bread, a casserole, or another simple meal to bring to a family or person in need.

Don’t forget about supporting local, non-profit organizations which foster nourishment – there are many!