Trying to get those last minute gifts for the holidays? You might have people in your life that are super hard to buy for too. You might even have some health conscious people in your life that want to improve their health. Maybe even an asthmatic or two. If you do, don’t worry. I’ve got you covered! Below are my Top 10 gifts for the friends and family in your life that have asthma and are on a path to reduce their symptoms.
Winter Hat & Glove Set – $10-$25
You might be thinking this is so unoriginal, but an asthmatic will totally thank you! During the winter, it can get very cold, depending on your location, and bundling up is one way an asthmatic can ward off colds and other illnesses. You can get them for any asthmatic in your life – your brother in-law, your niece or even your son. You can go to your favorite store and find a set that fits your recipient. One word of caution, many asthmatics have issues with certain materials so you may want to check on material preference before purchasing or just get a gift receipt.
Himalayan Salt Lamp
This is one of the BEST things for the house. It’s beautiful, it puts off a really nice soft glow and it helps balance the air in the room. Balancing the ions in the air is key for an asthmatic. When heated, the lamp will emit negative ions that fight against radiation. The air then helps you sleep better at night and lets you breathe easier. This one I found on Amazon.com for less than $20.00.
Pillow Protector – $10-$25
A pillow case may not seem like the most wonderful gift, but for an asthmatic it is. This is a zippered pillow case that blocks out bed bugs, dust mites and helps control allergies which in turn cuts down on respiratory issues. This one happens to be made of super tight breathable cotton which makes for the perfect allergen barrier. It truly does help with getting a better night’s sleep. Again, this one can be found at Target for less than $10.00.
Indoor Plants
Indoor plants add beauty to the home and help reduce symptoms. The Peace Lily and Marginata are easy to take care of because they doesn’t need too much water or light but still grow well. The Mother-in-Law’s Tongue, also known as the Snake Plant, is the most efficient at removing toxins from the air. But like the Peace Lily, it can be toxic when ingested so make sure the furry friends and children steer clear. There are more to choose from so check out your local home goods or hardware store’s garden department.
Essential Oils
Essential oils are the up and coming trend, but are amazing and have such wonderful powers. Some asthmatics can also be very sensitive so do your homework. If it your recipient doesn’t have any sensitivities, these will be a nice surprise. My go-to oils are eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint. The eucalyptus oil helps clear sinus passage and helps cleanse the body of toxins. The lavender oil has calming properties and aids with sleep. The peppermint oil also has a calming sensation but brings about energy and has a cooling sensation. These oils can be added to lava stone jewelry or used in a diffuser. Make sure you get your oils from a pure source to ensure you’re getting the best quality oils. You can get your oils on my DoTerra Affiliate link and know that you’re getting a quality product.
Air Purifier
An air purifier is a more expensive gift but so worth it! These little machines can range in price and size but help to remove 99% of the dust and allergens from the air. This one from Amazon.com removes the dust and allergens as small as 0.3 microns and even reduces common household odors. For an asthmatic, breathing clean air is a wonderful thing to have and this would be a great addition to the home.
Asthma-Free Naturally
As a coach, and an asthmatic, I’m always encouraging natural remedies over medication if it is possible. Asthma-Free Naturally is a book that teaches the reader how to take control of their asthma safely and effectively. The author discusses the Buteyko Breathing Method and provides guidance on diet, sleep, exercise and other changes that can be made to reduce or eliminate symptoms. Making small changes will help and I highly recommend this book. You can find it on Amazon.com.
Inhaler Cases
One thing most asthmatics never leave the house without is their inhaler. So a carrying case might be the perfect gift. After a Google search, you’ll find TONS to choose from! The versions on Etsy range from simple to intricate and there are even specialty cases. I love this idea for a gift because it can be clipped onto a backpack, your key ring or even your belt loop and the recipient will always have it close by.
Medical ID Bracelets
As with the inhaler cases, there are variety of places to get these. American Medical ID has ones that are a little more girly so it blends in with other bracelets. This is a great gift for anyone with a chronic illness because they can be customized with a name, telephone number, illness or something else. Because these require engraving, you have to tome the ordering of these just right. They are still a very special gift because it shows you care for the recipient.
Journal
A journal can be used for so many things, including recording good symptom days, not so good symptom days and what the triggers are on those bad symptoms days. Part of helping to reduce the symptoms of asthma is to know what the triggers are and for each person, it’s individual. Recording the symptoms on a regular basis will help the recipient know what to stay away from to avoid attacks. Journals can be found in so many stores and online and I love that you can make it personal. Think of the person you’re buying for and make it special.
While these gifts are perfect for asthmatics, they really can be great for any recipient in your life that’s working toward living a healthier life. Gift giving is a language of love so when choosing the gift, think of the person you’re giving to and make it special for them. Enjoy your gift giving and love up your family and friends this holiday season!