I hate the holidays.
I hate how Christmas decorations show up before Halloween and Jingle Bell Rock can be heard on November 1st. And what is the deal with the Starbucks red cups anyway? I just don’t get why it’s “a thing”.
But I’m not entirely anti-holiday.
I love gingerbread. And cozy sweaters. Also: presents. Both giving and receiving.
I also really enjoy reading all of the lists of gift ideas (Sew Mama Sew has a fun one every year called Handmade Holidays). I almost never buy things (or make things) from the lists I read, but they inspire me to think outside of my particular box.
So I thought I’d write my own (short) list of gift ideas for the highly sensitive people in your life.
Before I share my list, here are a few things to look for when shopping for an HSP:
- Comfort is king. Itchy, hard, pressure points, and awkward fit aren’t fun for anyone, but for an HSP can be downright torturous. So think soft and cozy.
- Go for nurturing. Look for things that will make your HSP feel wrapped up in a warm cocoon.
- Less is more. For some people more is more (and I’m sure for some HSPs more is more too), but generally, more can feel overstimulating. A few thoughtful gifts that make an HSP feel seen and loved is better than a mountain of random shiny stuff.
And now here is a short list of gift ideas for the HSP in your life (maybe that’s you!)…
I tried these headphones on at Target last week and it was all I could do not to buy them right then (granted, the price helps curb the impulse purchase urges). I was impressed with how comfortably these fit and how completely it canceled the typical Target noises.
A cozy scarf (like the one pictured from Everlane). Itchy neck wraps need not apply.
A fun mug for her favorite tea. I love mugs. Pretty ones, funny ones, big ones. And there is something uniquely comforting to have tea in your new favorite mug.
But then my husband bought me a Kindle a few years ago and I slowly started using it. I’m on my 3rd Kindle now and while I still love the feel of paper in my hands, I’m a total convert. And having the right case for your Kindle can make a big difference (I love the ones that look like book covers).
And last but not least, give yourself (or another HSP) a little ease this holiday season. I’m really excited to share this with you.
Easing into the Season is a daily pause from holidays-as-usual to help you create space for your highly sensitive self, and build in the self-soothing support structures you need at a time when the world is covered in crinkly paper and powdered sugar.
It runs from November 24 through January 2, and costs $30. Read more about it here.
Photo Credit: “pretty parcels” by Shimelle Laine on flickr.
Note: some of the links above are affiliate links.