A Meaningful Holiday Gift Guide

Over the last few years, I’ve found myself craving a different kind of holiday experience—one filled with less stuff and more connection, presence, and meaning.

While the dopamine hit of opening a present is lovely and temporary, what really lasts aren’t the things wrapped in shiny paper. It's the experiences that stay with us.

The movie nights.

The spontaneous day trip to the city.

The winter hike followed by hot chocolate.

Those are the moments that actually feel like gifts.

So this year, I made a quiet shift: to focus more on experiences and fewer things.

Not extravagant trips or big gestures, but meaningful, everyday moments that help us slow down and connect.

And you may be thinking, But I love giving and receiving presents.

And that's totally okay.

If your love language includes giving something tangible, thoughtful, or sentimental, I’ve put together a list of my favorite items—perfect for anyone on a wellness, spiritual, or self-discovery journey. And if experience-based gifts are more your speed, I’m including those as well.

Heart-Centered Tangible Gifts

For the people in your life who love meaningful, intentional, soul-nourishing gifts — here are my top recommendations.

• Satya Zodiac Necklace Collection

  A timeless pendant that honors your unique zodiac sign. With a variety of styles to choose from, these pieces suit different preferences and personality types. Perfect for the astrology lover in your life.

  
  

• The Way to a Beautiful World (Book)

  An inspiring and uplifting read for anyone in a season of growth, reflection, or emotional healing. Not only is it easy to read, but the beautiful illustrations make it a lovely coffee table book — one you’ll be sure to revisit at different moments in your life.

  
  

• BestSelf Journal & Planner

  One of my favorite structured planners—this journal is designed to help you set goals, stay intentional, and bring more alignment into your everyday life. Ideal for anyone entering a “new chapter.”

  
  

  My favorite part? Each page includes a space for daily gratitude.

  
  

  And if you kids are into journaling, I recently found a similar style journal for kids that I'll be getting my daughter for Christmas this year. Check it out here.

  
  

• Chakra Mini Meditation Bowls

  Love these small, beautifully crafted singing bowls, each tuned to a specific chakra. And although the resonance isn't long, they can help to bring grounding and balance to any space.

  
  

  I recently bought two for my kids (they’re really into small things) as tools they can use when they feel overwhelmed.

  
  

• Antojai Quantum Reiki Tarot

  One of my go-to tarot decks, these are infused with Quantum Reiki frequencies, designed to deepen intuition, healing, and self-awareness. A meaningful addition for anyone who’s into tarot or intuitive work.

  
  

  There’s also an option to purchase the accompanying online course to learn how to read tarot and use this deck more intentionally.

  
  

• Florensi Meditation Mat & Cushion

  This supportive mat and cushion makes your meditation practice more comfortable and inviting. It looks great in any room, is easy to pack away, and washable. My favorite part is the velvet material, which is so cozy on colder days.

  
  

Experience-Based Gifts

You don’t need to gift something big to leave a lasting impression. Here are a few simple, meaningful experiences you can give this season:

• A Day in the City

  Pick a museum, a bookstore, or a walk around the park and lunch. Keep it simple and present.

  
  

  My kids love an excuse to go to the city—even if it’s just for a meal. Part of the fun is getting dressed up, enjoying a special treat, and taking an Uber (which, honestly, makes the whole experience more relaxed and enjoyable—no driving, no parking, no stressing).

  
  

• Tickets to a Show

  The holidays are a great time to catch a new movie or see a performance—whether it’s theater, a concert, the circus, or another spectacular event.

  
  

  This is especially fun for kids, couples, or families.

  
  

  We recently went to the Big Apple Circus and I highly recommend it—acrobats, lights, dancing, and pure fun.

  
  

• Wellness Experience

  A couples Reiki session, sound bath, meditation class, or restorative yoga session can be incredibly grounding at any time of year.

  
  

  Want to make it extra special? A getaway to Kriplau in the Berkshires is deeply healing, whether you go alone or with another person. Alternatively, a weekend getaway within a two-hour drive is also great. A change of scenery, even a simple one, can feel incredibly restorative.

  
  

  Tip: Go during the week for better room rates—it also makes childcare a bit easier on your partner or family member if you have school-aged kids.

  
  

• Creative Classes

  Pottery, painting, candle-making, baking—there’s something special about learning together.

  
  

  We love Art on the Rocks in Leominster, MA for pottery painting, although there are so many of these around.

  
  

  If you're looking for cooking classes a few of our favorites are Third Space Kitchen in Groton and The Culinary Playground in Derry, NH.

  
  

• Nature Adventure

  A winter walk, a local forest trail, or a quiet morning by the water followed by a meal or sweet treat out is always a draw, especially if you want to make this family a gift. My kids aren't always excited about a hike, so pairing nature with something fun afterwards makes the experience feel special for everyone.

  
  

  Tip: If going with kids, try turning your walk into a scavenger hunt. Personally, I like these scavenger hunt cards for an easy game the whole family can play.

  
  

  A few of our favorite hikes are:

  • The Overlook Reservoir Loop in Fitchburg, MA: A ~1 mile easy flat loop with ~4 miles in total if you want to roam even further. Has great views of the reservoir dam.

  • Lovewell Pond Yudicky Farm Trails in Nashua, NH: Easy paths for walking or exploring with kids. One part of the trail has a few beautiful outdoor sculptures.

  • Mt Watatic in Ashby, MA: A bit more of a climb—about 1-1.5 hours out and back, but incredibly rewarding with stunning views at the summit. (A great restaurant nearby is the 873 Cafe & Smith Hill Tavern)

So, whether you’re gifting experiences or something meaningful to hold in your hands, I hope you choose gifts that bring more presence, joy, and connection into your holiday season.