My Healthy of Life

Sunday, July 20, 2025

Top 40+ Self-Care and Wellness Gifts for 2025

M Hasan 6:56 AM

The Ultimate Guide to Self-Care and Wellness Gifts in 2025

Looking for the perfect self-care gift? You’re in the right place! This comprehensive list features over 40 of the best self-care and wellness gifts available this year. Whether you're shopping for a friend, family member, or even yourself, these items are designed to help promote relaxation, rejuvenation, and overall well-being.

From affordable options under $10 to high-end luxury items, there’s something for every budget. These gifts are not only practical but also thoughtful, making them ideal for any occasion. Let’s dive into some of the top picks that can make a real difference in someone's daily routine.

Top Self-Care and Wellness Gift Ideas

BodyRestore Shower Steamers
These shower steamers are a great way to create a calming environment during a bath. Priced at around $17, they use natural essential oils to help relieve stress and fatigue.
Calming Hot Chocolate
A soothing drink made with Reishi mushroom powder, this hot cacao is gluten-free, vegan, and low in sugar. Perfect for winding down after a long day.
Non-Toxic Candle
Made with soy wax and free from harmful chemicals, these candles burn for up to 50 hours and come in relaxing scents to help encourage a peaceful evening.
Kindle
Ideal for book lovers, the Kindle is lightweight, easy to carry, and lasts up to 10 weeks on a single charge. It’s also waterproof, making it perfect for reading by the pool or beach.
RESTCLOUD Neck & Shoulder Relaxer
This device helps relieve tension and stiffness in the neck and shoulders. It can also be used as a pillow after a few days of use.
Oura Ring
A smart ring that tracks heart rate, activity levels, sleep, and more. Great for those who want to monitor their health and wellness on the go.
TheraGun Mini
A compact massager that’s perfect for travel. It’s quiet and effective for relieving muscle knots and cramps.
Hatch Alarm Clock
This alarm clock uses a custom sunrise and soothing sounds to gently wake you up, helping reduce grogginess.
BEIS Travel Mirror
A portable mirror with three light settings and a rechargeable battery. Ideal for anyone always on the go.
Bamboo Bathtub Caddy
Turn any bathroom into a spa with this bamboo tray. Pair it with bath salts or a candle for a luxurious night in.

Additional Self-Care and Wellness Gifts

Manduka Yoga Mat
A durable yoga mat that’s perfect for stretching, working out, and meditating.
Stress Relief Fidget Balls
These silicone magnetic balls help alleviate anxiety and improve focus during stressful moments.
Weighted Sleep Mask
Designed to promote deep sleep and reduce anxiety, this mask is a great addition to any bedtime routine.
Wildling Gua Sha
A skincare tool made from sustainable Bian stone, known for its rejuvenating properties.
Craftmix Variety Pack
Perfect for creating cocktails or mocktails at home. Comes in four different flavors.
Apple Watch
A versatile smartwatch that tracks health metrics and includes safety features like fall detection.
Heatable Lavender Scented Stuffed Animal
A comforting toy filled with natural grains and lavender, great for reducing anxiety and easing period cramps.
Scalp Massager
Helps exfoliate and stimulate blood flow for healthier hair.
Hydro-Stars Pimple Protector
Cute and effective pimple stickers that help reduce inflammation and keep skin clear.
Essential Oil Diffuser
Adds a pleasant scent to your home while promoting relaxation and wellness.
Berkey Gravity-Fed Water Filter
A high-quality water filter that removes contaminants without electricity.
Always Pan 2.0
A non-toxic, lightweight pan perfect for cooking healthy meals.
Goop Body Brush
Helps exfoliate and detoxify the skin before a shower.
Two Minute Mornings Journal
Encourages mindfulness and gratitude, setting a positive tone for the day.
Renpho Eye Massager
Combines heating and massage functions to relieve eye strain and headaches.
Smile Face Slippers
Adorable and comfortable, these slippers add a touch of fun to any morning routine.
Self Care Package
A curated box with spa items like candles, bath salts, and body oils.
Cooling Weighted Blanket
Designed to help hot sleepers achieve deeper, more restful sleep.
Mineral Bath Salts
Made from Dead Sea salt, these bath salts help soften and rejuvenate the skin.
Cold Face Mask
Effective for reducing puffiness, acne, and sinus pain.
Assorted Teas
A variety pack of tea bags that promote relaxation and comfort throughout the day.
Stanley Tumbler
A durable, insulated water bottle that keeps drinks cold for hours.
Undaria Algae Body Oil
A hydrating oil infused with antioxidants for silky smooth skin.
Indoor Plant
A small plant in a cute pot makes a great self-care gift for anyone who loves to grow things.
Free People Set
Comfortable loungewear perfect for relaxing at home or traveling.
Glossier Perfume
A popular fragrance with notes of pink pepper, iris, and musk.
Brown Sugar Scrub
A gentle exfoliating scrub that moisturizes sensitive skin.
Deep Sleep Pillow Spray
An aromatherapy blend of lavender, chamomile, and vetivert to improve sleep quality.
Under Eye Mask Set
Vegan and sulfate-free masks that reduce puffiness and dark circles.
OUAI Scalp & Body Scrub
A rose-scented scrub that exfoliates and nourishes the skin.

These self-care and wellness gifts are just a few of the many options available this year. Whether you're looking for something practical or indulgent, there's something here for everyone. Don’t forget to share your own favorite self-care items in the comments!

The Cookware Trend to Skip (& a Superior Option to Try)

M Hasan 6:50 AM

The Truth About Non-Stick Cookware and Health Risks

Non-stick cookware has long been a staple in many kitchens, praised for its convenience and ease of use. However, concerns about its safety have sparked a growing debate among health experts and home cooks. While it may not be entirely harmful, there are valid reasons to consider replacing your non-stick pans with a safer alternative.

Most non-stick pans are coated with a chemical called polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), commonly known as Teflon. This material is often referred to as a "forever chemical" because it does not break down easily in the environment. While it makes cooking and cleaning easier, PTFE can degrade over time due to high heat, scratches from utensils, or general wear and tear. When this happens, small particles of the coating can flake off into your food, potentially leading to ingestion.

Although some guidelines suggest that proper care—such as avoiding metal utensils, not leaving pans on high heat for extended periods, and storing them correctly—can minimize these risks, the issue remains significant. It's also important to note that non-stick pans should not be stored in oven drawers, as stacking or exposure to residual heat can accelerate the breakdown of the coating.

A Safer Alternative: Cast Iron Pans

For those looking to move away from non-stick cookware, cast iron pans offer a natural and durable alternative. Unlike PTFE-coated pans, cast iron is free from synthetic chemicals and can even provide a source of dietary iron. With regular use, cast iron develops a natural seasoning layer that gives it a non-stick surface similar to that of traditional non-stick pans.

Cast iron pans are also incredibly versatile, capable of handling a wide range of cooking tasks—from searing steaks to baking cornbread. They can transition seamlessly from the stovetop to the oven and can last for generations with proper care.

How to Care for Your Cast Iron Pan

Caring for a cast iron pan is simpler than many people believe. It’s essential to avoid using soap when cleaning, as it can strip away the seasoning. After washing, the pan should be thoroughly dried to prevent rust. A light coat of oil should be applied after each wash to maintain the seasoning.

When it comes to cleaning, harsh scrubbers and strong detergents should be avoided. Instead, many chefs recommend using a simple method like rubbing salt onto the pan with a soft cloth. This helps remove residue without damaging the seasoning.

Why Cast Iron Is a Smart Investment

Beyond its safety and durability, cast iron offers long-term value. While it may require some initial effort to season and maintain, the benefits far outweigh the costs. It’s an investment that pays off over time, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to reduce their exposure to potentially harmful materials while enjoying reliable and versatile cookware.

If you're ready to make the switch, there are plenty of options available, including pre-seasoned cast iron skillets that are ready to use right out of the box. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a home cook, cast iron provides a safe, effective, and timeless solution for your kitchen needs.

Homemade CBD Body Butter

M Hasan 5:56 AM

Why I Love This CBD Body Butter

This DIY CBD body butter has become a staple in my daily routine, especially after long days or when I feel tension in my shoulders and lower back. It’s one of those recipes that just works—simple, deeply nourishing, and packed with plant allies that support pain relief in a gentle but effective way. I’ve been using CBD for years to help with pain, and I love the topical application and how well it truly helps relax my muscles.

I’m excited to share this homemade CBD lotion recipe so you can find relief too. Don’t worry, it’s easier than you think! The combination of tallow, castor oil, CBD, and menthol creates a cooling, muscle-soothing blend that melts into your skin and gets to work fast.

Key Ingredients and Their Benefits

Beef Tallow: One of my favorite skincare ingredients, it’s incredibly close to our skin’s natural oils, which means it absorbs beautifully without feeling greasy or heavy.
Castor Oil: Known for its thick consistency and deep moisturizing properties.
CBD Isolate: Provides targeted pain relief without the psychoactive effects of THC.
Menthol Crystals: Offers a cooling sensation that helps soothe sore muscles and reduce inflammation.
Essential Oils: A carefully curated blend that enhances the therapeutic benefits of the balm.

My Go-To Essential Oil Blend for Pain + Inflammation

To create a balanced and effective blend, I use:

10 drops of copaiba: Gentle but powerfully anti-inflammatory; it also works beautifully alongside CBD.
8 drops of lavender: Calming for both the skin and nervous system.
6 drops of peppermint: Cooling, numbing, and works in synergy with the menthol.
4 drops of black pepper: Warming and grounding; helps relieve stiffness.
2 drops of ginger: Supports circulation and deep tissue relief.

This blend has the right balance of cool and warm, which I’ve found works best for layered pain like tension that turns into inflammation.

How To Make DIY CBD Body Butter

Here is my step-by-step process:

Start by gently melting the tallow and castor oil in a double boiler. You don’t want to overheat it, just enough to fully melt the fats.
Once the oils are melted, stir in the menthol crystals until fully dissolved. Then add the CBD isolate and mix until it disappears completely. Ensure everything is smooth before moving on.
Place the mixture in the fridge for 30-45 minutes. Wait until the edges start to firm up but the center is still soft.
Use a hand mixer to whip it into a fluffy balm. This step is satisfying as you watch it transform from a melted oil to a soft, airy texture.
Stir in your essential oil blend while breathing in the amazing aroma.
Scoop the balm into jars and keep one in the bathroom, one in your herbal first aid kit, and usually give one away to a friend who needs it.

Tips & Tricks

Always dissolve menthol crystals completely in the warm oils. Undissolved crystals can feel scratchy on the skin.
Use a jewelry scale to measure your CBD isolate for accuracy. Half a gram gives you 500 mg in the whole batch.
Melt your tallow and castor oil gently over low heat. If the mixture gets too hot, it can reduce the effectiveness of the CBD and essential oils.
Let the mixture cool slightly before adding essential oils. This helps preserve their therapeutic properties.
Chill the mixture until the edges are firm and the center is soft before whipping. This gives the balm that light, whipped texture.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. If your home is very warm, keep the balm in the fridge to prevent melting.
You can skip the essential oils or reduce the amount if you have sensitive skin. The menthol and CBD still provide powerful relief on their own.
Always test a small area of skin before applying more broadly. Everyone’s skin reacts differently, especially to menthol or new essential oils.
Label your jars clearly so others know it’s for pain relief and not a general face or body butter. So important!

How To Use

A little truly goes a long way. Just a fingertip’s worth melts into the skin easily. I love the instant cooling sensation from the menthol while the CBD and essential oils go to work deeper down.

Safety Notes

For adult use only.
Avoid sensitive areas. Do not apply near the eyes, broken skin, mucous membranes, or sensitive areas of the body. Menthol and essential oils can cause a burning or stinging sensation in delicate tissue.
Wash hands after use, especially if you’ve applied the balm to your neck, shoulders, or back, as residual menthol can be irritating if rubbed into your eyes.
Not for internal use. This balm is for topical application only. Do not ingest.
Pregnancy & breastfeeding: Always consult your healthcare provider before using products containing CBD or essential oils during pregnancy or while nursing.
Allergy check: If you’ve never used tallow, CBD, or any of the essential oils in this recipe before, test a small amount on your inner forearm and wait 24 hours to rule out any reactions.
CBD cautions: Although topical CBD typically stays local (doesn’t enter the bloodstream significantly), consult your doctor if you are on medications or have a condition where cannabinoids might be contraindicated.

Alternative Options

If you prefer not to make it yourself, you can buy a muscle whipped CBD tallow lotion from Humble Collective. It doesn’t have the same essential oils but it works great too!

Ways to Use Whipped CBD Body Butter

Here are a few of the many ways I use this CBD lotion:

Sore muscles: Massage into tight or overworked areas after exercise or long days on your feet.
Stiff joints: Rub into knees, wrists, fingers, or other joints to ease inflammation and stiffness.
Lower back pain: Apply to the lumbar area for targeted support during flare-ups or fatigue.
Neck and shoulder tension: Use after working at a desk or carrying kids all day.
Foot pain: Great for plantar fasciitis, tired arches, or swollen feet.
Menstrual cramps: Massage onto the lower abdomen for cramping and muscle relief.
Headaches: Apply a small amount to the neck and shoulders (avoid the eyes and temple area) for cooling tension relief.
Post-workout recovery: Use as a natural muscle rub after intense activity.
Arthritis and chronic pain: Use regularly on affected areas for daily support.
Tension from stress: The scent and cooling effect can help you unwind when emotions show up in the body.
Nighttime support: Rub into sore spots before bed to help your body relax and rest.
Travel balm: Take it with you to soothe aches from long drives or flights.
Massage balm: Use it during a gentle massage to combine touch with therapeutic herbal support.
Cold and flu body aches: Helps soothe generalized body discomfort during illness.
Pre-bed routine: Rub into tired legs and feet as part of your evening wind-down.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use this balm on my face? I wouldn’t recommend it. The menthol and essential oils are too strong for delicate facial skin.
Is this balm safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? It’s always best to check with your provider first. Some essential oils (like peppermint) are not recommended during pregnancy.
Will CBD in this balm affect my medications or show up on a drug test? This balm uses CBD isolate, which is free from THC. When used topically, CBD generally stays local and doesn’t enter the bloodstream in significant amounts.
Can I make this without CBD? Yes, you can leave out the CBD and still get a soothing, effective balm from the menthol, tallow, and essential oils.
What’s the shelf life of this balm? Because it’s oil-based and contains no water, it should last around 6 to 12 months if stored in a cool, dry place.
Can I swap out the essential oils? Absolutely. Just be sure the oils you choose are skin-safe and fit the purpose of the balm.
Does this balm stain clothing? It absorbs well, especially when applied in small amounts.

Final Thoughts

Sometimes, the best remedies are the simplest. This balm brings together traditional, nourishing fats with a few of my favorite plant allies for pain relief. No fancy ingredients, no over-complicated process, just good, honest herbal support. If you’re looking for something to support your body through inflammation and everyday aches, this whipped tallow balm is one I can wholeheartedly recommend. It’s easy to make, and even easier to fall in love with.

Journey to Renewal: Peoria Mom Shares Life-Saving Lung Transplant Story

M Hasan 5:14 AM

A Journey of Resilience and Recovery

A Peoria mother is on the path to recovery after undergoing a life-saving double lung transplant. After nearly two months without the ability to speak, she has finally regained her voice, marking a significant milestone in her journey.

Ali Briskey, 41, underwent the double lung transplant at Norton Thoracic Institute at Dignity Health St. Joseph’s Hospital and Medical Center last year. Her story is one of perseverance, strength, and hope. “Our journey has been a rollercoaster, lots of ups and downs,” she shared, reflecting on the challenges she faced.

Briskey’s condition began when she was pregnant, as the Scleroderma she had been living with progressed into interstitial lung disease. This condition caused her lungs to fail, along with some heart complications. “My lungs were just failing, and then I had some heart complications as well,” she explained.

Scleroderma is an autoimmune disease that can lead to the hardening of internal organs, making it difficult to breathe and causing a range of other health issues. For Briskey, this meant a long and challenging battle with her health. “I was hospitalized for 106 days through this journey,” she said.

After the birth of her youngest child, Briskey found herself frequently returning to the hospital. Eventually, she was referred to Norton Thoracic Institute, where she underwent evaluations and was accepted as a transplant candidate. She was placed on the transplant list, and her condition was severe enough that she was prioritized for the procedure.

“Ali’s case was very critical,” said Dr. Leena Pawar of St. Joseph’s Norton Thoracic Institute. “Her numbers were already on the higher side, and I think she received this transplant really quickly, within a matter of a few days.”

The transplant was successful, but it came with its own set of challenges. One of the most difficult aspects for Briskey was losing her voice. “I was stripped of my voice completely,” she said. “I was unable to speak for about 48 days. I was stripped of my ability to move and to walk and to just function in this world, and I had to learn all of that over again.”

Despite these obstacles, Briskey has made remarkable progress. Her ability to speak again is a symbol of her resilience and determination. The road to recovery has not been easy, but she continues to push forward, focusing on regaining her strength and independence.

Key Challenges Faced by Ali Briskey

Progression of Scleroderma: The autoimmune disease led to interstitial lung disease, severely impacting her respiratory system.
Heart Complications: Alongside lung failure, she experienced additional health issues that complicated her condition.
Extended Hospitalization: A 106-day hospital stay marked the peak of her struggle with illness.
Post-Transplant Recovery: After the surgery, she lost her voice and mobility, requiring extensive rehabilitation.
Emotional and Physical Struggles: The journey included emotional highs and lows, as well as physical setbacks that tested her endurance.

The Role of Medical Experts

Dr. Leena Pawar played a crucial role in evaluating and treating Briskey. Her expertise and the team at Norton Thoracic Institute provided the necessary care and support throughout the process. The rapid response to her condition ensured that she received the transplant in time to save her life.

Looking Ahead

As Briskey continues her recovery, she remains focused on rebuilding her life. Her story serves as an inspiration to others facing similar challenges. With each step forward, she demonstrates the power of resilience, medical innovation, and the human spirit.

Wife's Terrifying Response as Husband Dies in MRI Suction Accident

M Hasan 4:54 AM

A Tragic Incident at an MRI Facility

The grieving wife of a man who tragically died after being sucked into an MRI machine in New York has shared her heart-wrenching story, revealing the traumatic moments that led to her husband’s death. Keith McAllister, 61, suffered critical injuries when he was pulled into the machine by his necklace at Nassau Open MRI in Westbury, Long Island. He later succumbed to his injuries, according to local authorities.

For the first time since the incident, Adrienne Jones-McAllister, the woman’s wife, spoke about the harrowing experience. She described how she had an MRI on her knee and needed assistance getting up, so she asked the technician to bring her husband to help her off the table. During an MRI scan, patients and anyone in the room are typically instructed to remove all jewelry and piercings due to the strong magnetic fields generated by the machine.

However, Ms. Jones-McAllister revealed that the technician allowed her husband to enter the room even though he was wearing a 20-pound weight-training chain. She recounted the horrifying moment when she saw her husband walk toward the table and the machine "snatch him" immediately.

As he approached her, she said, "At that instant, the machine switched him around, pulled him in, and he hit the MRI." Tears streamed down her face as she recalled the desperate plea: "I said: 'Could you turn off the machine, call 911, do something, Turn this damn thing off!'"

Her husband went limp in her arms, and the memory continues to haunt her. She described how the technician tried to help pull her husband off the machine but it was impossible. "He waved goodbye to me and then his whole body went limp," she told the TV outlet.

According to Ms. Jones-McAllister, her husband suffered several heart attacks after being freed from the machine and eventually died. She claimed that this was not the first time she and her husband had visited Nassau Open MRI, and that he had worn his chain there before.

She explained, "That was not the first time that guy has seen that chain. They had a conversation about it before." She added that previous interactions included comments like, "Ooooooh, that's a big chain!"

This incident is not the first time an MRI machine has caused a fatality in New York. In 2001, six-year-old Michael Colombini of Croton-on-Hudson was killed at the Westchester Medical Center when an oxygen tank flew into the chamber, drawn in by the MRI's 10-ton electromagnet. In 2010, a lawsuit was settled for $2.9 million.

MRI machines use strong magnetic fields that can exert powerful forces on objects made of iron, some steels, and other magnetizable materials. According to the National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering, these machines are strong enough to fling a wheelchair across the room.

Nassau Open MRI has not yet responded to requests for comment. The tragic event has raised concerns about safety protocols and the importance of adhering to guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future.