'Tis the Season | PROJECT: CLEAN FOOD'S GUIDE TO HEALTHY HOLIDAY GIFTS FOR BODY, MIND, AND SOUL – ALL UNDER $100

By Katie G.

Mindfulness. We often hear this word thrown around without truly knowing what it means. In a sense, it is the moment-by-moment awareness and acceptance of our own thoughts, feelings, and the environment around us. Now, what would happen if we took that introspective and turned it outward: applying it to the idea of gifting? Now, there's an idea. People can totally appreciate a gift that is well thought out and in tune with where they are in their lives. In turn, you feel more fulfilled having provided someone with something they love. And so, let me ask you this: Do you think you can inspire someone this holiday season with something other than the run-of-the-mill gift card, clothing item, toy, or greeting card stuffed with money? I bet you can.  And here's some inspiration for you to get started.

We at project: Clean Food truly treasure the gift of experience. Imagine giving a gift that will add a beautiful moment to your loved one's life forever. Imagine giving a gift that will give someone a priceless and invaluable experience that may forever change their lives. You have the power to do this. You have the power to warm hearts and, of course, have fun doing it.  Here, we've rounded up some of our favorite items and experiences that are unique, sustainable, and good for the mind, body, and soul. So get in the spirit of #cleangiving this season.

FOR THE HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTEST: SHEA'WA NATURAL SOAP GIFT SET 

Let me start off by saying that there are quite a few natural soaps and body products available on the market. We've tried lots: and then there was Shea'Wa. Whether it's their beautifully hand-crafted soaps, body butters, lotions, or their charcoal and seaweed face mask, Shea'Wa does wonders for your skin. Made right here in New York City, Shea'wa soaps are handcrafted and each product has natural  ingredients that are derived from herbs, spices, and floral essences. Many of the ingredients that they use can be readily found in many beauty products found at most beauty stores and shops. But here's the difference: no chemicals, artificial fragrances, or synthetics that can sometimes give us allergic reactions. She'wa focuses on the craftsmanship of producing unique products. They believe in using ingredients that are beneficial to your health which only helps raise the awareness of nature's remarkable resources.

4-Soap Gift Set, $45

Available at Sheawa.com 

 

FOR THE ASPIRING CHEF: FOOD52 GENIUS RECIPES BOOK

Now a New York Times Bestseller, this debut cookbook from Food52 is written (and signed!) by Food52's Executive Editor Kristen Miglore, based on her James Beard Award-nominated Genius Recipes column on Food52—a series that uncovers the recipes and tricks that change the way we cook. This essential collection includes more than 100 foolproof recipes that are beautifully packaged.

Signed Cookbook: $35
Available at Food52.com
(Bonus points if you invest in the Vegan Cookbook, which is also amazing)

FOR THE FITNESS OBSESSED: JIVAMUKTI YOGA CLASS PACKAGE

Trust us when we tell you: this studio is nothing short of amazing. Jivamukti Yoga Studio (Try to say that 10 times fast) is located right in the heart of Union Square in New York City, and also in a locations globally. For many, it's merely a spiritual enclave. For some, it's a great place to mingle with like minded individuals interested in yoga and eastern philosophy. For all, it's a place to hone your yoga practice, regardless of your level.  Beginner or super-advanced, everyone loves this place. And the best part of it all, they have a cafe and boutique dedicated to wellness. Regardless of whether the person you're gifting is an advanced yogi or is  just curious about the practice, Jivamukti's welcoming community is a great place to start. Plus, for new students, $45 will get you a week of unlimited yoga.

Jivamukti Yoga School Gift Certificate: $50
Available at JivamuktiYoga.NYC

FOR THE BEAUTY LOVER: LOLI BEAUTY BOX

Living Organic Loving Ingredients is the foundation of this innovative new company. LOLI Beauty is a really unique spin on the at-home beauty subscription service (a la Birchbox or GlossyBox) with one very important distinction: eco-beauty. Yes, each month, LOLI sends a customized kit in a recyclable box filled with neatly packaged tins of wild harvested, fair trade, or food-grade ingredients and a customizable recipe. Focused on either face, body, hair, or bath, LOLI offer the same kind of gratification—and relaxation—that comes with making a meal at home. Plus, it's incredibly fun.

LOLI Beauty Box: $38
Available at LoliBeauty.com

FOR IMPRESSING YOUR MOTHER-IN-LAW: DIPTYQUE BAIES CANDLE

It’s hard not to get swept up in the magic of Diptyque. This legendary French perfumer makes some of the most exquisite and chic candles (in addition to fragrances and body care products). Baies, roughly translated as "berries" combines the distinct fragrance of roses and blackcurrant leaves, creating a wafting, sweet aroma that lingers for hours. It is truly one of a kind.

Diptique Candle: $60
Available at DiptiqueParis.com

FOR THE ADVENTUROUS SPIRIT: A DAY AT KINGS SPA

I don't even know where to start with this one. Kings Spa is an adventure and it is not for the faint of heart (fair warning: there are areas where you are required to go nude - same sex only though). Once you can get past that feeling of "openness," a magical world awaits. In the women's and men's locker rooms, you can find varying hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms. In the co-ed areas, you'll be required to wear a delightful uniform as you travel from sauna to sauna, reaping the benefits of each. From the gold room, to the rock salt room, to the amethyst room, these rooms are designed to detox. Make it an all-day excursion and make sure you stop in the cafe for a delicious, authentic Korean lunch. Free shuttle service is provided on weekends from the city to the facility in NJ.

Admission for One: $45
For more information, visit: KingSaunaNJ.com

FOR YOUR MAN-CRUSH: HIMALAYAN ROCK SALT SHOT GLASSES

Listen, we at project: CLEAN FOOD definitely don't condone tossing back the shots like it's no tomorrow. But, there is something unmistakably cool about these shot glasses made from Himalayan Rock Salt. Perfect for tequila or even mezcal, these innovative vessels offer a salty twinge to your taste buds, but with a more nuanced flavor than ordinary table salt.

Set of 4 Shot Glasses plus a Bamboo Tray: $45
Available at UncommonGoods.com

FOR THE GODDESS WITHIN: LUXE WILD CRYSTAL NECKLACE

Handmade in Australia, these beautiful necklaces hang long on a large looped anti-tarnish brass chain with a low but adjustable drop. Available in amethyst, rose quartz, or clear quartz, these stunning Long Shot necklaces are a beautiful way to wear and harness the energy of these incredible healing crystals. Bonus - you can also get a beautiful hand-drawn mandala for just $25. A portion of all proceeds goes to the Nepal Earthquake Relief Fund.

Luxe Wild Long Shot Necklace: $49; Hand-Drawn Mandala: $25
Available at LuxeWild.com

FOR ROCKING THE WHITE ELEPHANT / SECRET SANTA EXCHANGE:  FAIRY DUST

Because nothing says you're an airy-fairy friend like bringing Fairy Dust to the party. Handmade by NYC's Crystal Cactus, the Fairy Dust blends of herbs and essential oils that have been used for manifestation and moon rituals for thousands of years. But seriously, sprinkle a little of this this herb-infused glitter dust and set your intentions. Or, get a good laugh, or both.

Crystal Cactus Manifestation Fairy Dust: $18
Available in select Urban Outfitters stores and UrbanOutfitters.com

FOR THE DO-GOODERS: LETTERS TO SANTA

Perhaps you're over the gift-giving and are looking to do some good. Personally, I do this every year and I have long embraced the idea of foregoing a formal gift exchange with my partner in favor of answering two Letters to Santa. Each year, the  U.S. Postal Service rolls out its "Operation Santa" letter-writing program where children and families in need describe their holiday dream lists – asking Santa for warm coats, food, clothes, and shoes — plus toys. The gifts are then mailed to families. It's simple and its very necessary. Twenty major U.S. cities are participating in the program this year. And, to give you perspective about the extraordinary amount of need, New York City gets at least 300,000 requests each year, but only about 10 percent go answered.

Letters to Santa: By Donation

Find out how you can participate now at operationsanta.com

AND FINALLY: WHAT WE'RE GIVING EACH OTHER...

23 AND ME HOME DNA TEST

OK, this gift doesn't really qualify for this list since it is over $100. But, this at-home kit is something Dominick and I have had our eye on for a while. With a single cheek swab, this kit gives you access to tons of information about your heritage, your health, and your ancestry. Do you really want to get to know each other as a couple? Then this is definitely the way to do it!

23 and Me Kit: $199
Available at 23andme.com

We hope you enjoyed this list and got some great gift inspiration. Be sure to tag all your photos with #CleanGiving to help drive awareness about mindful giving this season. Also, find us on Facebook and let us know your thoughts.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS to all our readers. And, THANK YOU for following along on our journey.