How to Ask for Health for the Holidays

The holidays are upon us, and with them comes the inevitable question: What do you want this year? Instead of reflexively saying “Oh, nothing, I’m good,” why not use this opportunity to ask for something that supports your health and well-being? 

Since you can’t order new knees off of Amazon yet, here’s a guide to holiday gifts and experiences that will make 2024 the year of thriving, not just surviving.

1. Fitness Gear That You’ll Actually Use

Forget the gimmicks. If you’re asking for fitness gear, make it stuff that fits your lifestyle.

• Adjustable Dumbbells or Kettlebells: Perfect for home workouts, and they save space.

• Resistance Bands: A budget-friendly and travel-ready option for strength training.

• Running Shoes or Hiking Boots: Quality footwear can make or break your workouts. Bonus points if you get some customized orthotics for your new kicks.

• A Yoga Mat That Doesn’t Suck: Look for one with good grip and padding—your joints will thank you.

Blunt truth: Don’t ask for a treadmill if it’s going to become an expensive laundry rack.

2. Subscriptions That Keep You Moving

• Streaming Fitness Classes: Whether it’s yoga, HIIT, or dance, a subscription like Peloton, Alive or B! Community can keep you organized and focused.

• Gym Membership: Maybe it’s time to change up your fitness routine. Just make sure it’s a gym you’ll actually go to.

• Meditation Apps: Memberships to apps like Calm, Headspace, or Balance can help you reduce stress and improve your mental health.

• Meal Delivery: The gift of knowing what’s for dinner when you get home from a busy day. Local companies like Clean Slate Food Co. and Nourish[ed] can take that task off of your plate.

3. Gadgets That Support Wellness

Some tech toys are worth the hype:

• A High-Quality Blender: Perfect for smoothies that actually taste good.

• A Fitness Tracker: An Oura ring or Whoop can help you balance activity and recovery, or a smartwatch or Fitbit can help you stay accountable to your fitness goals. (Just don’t obsess over the numbers.)

• Blue-Light Blocking Glasses: For all the screen addicts out there (guilty), these can reduce eye strain and may improve your sleep.

4. Experiences Over Stuff

Sometimes, the best gift is something you can’t wrap.

• A Spa Day: Massage, sauna, or a facial—it’s self-care, not selfish.

• A Cooking Class: Learn how to whip up healthy meals that are actually delicious.

• A National Parks Pass: If you love the outdoors, this gives you access to some of the most beautiful places in the country. Honorable mention for a Nebraska Parks Permit, if your outdoor adventures tend to keep you in Nebraska.

• Personal Training or Coaching Sessions: Whether it’s fitness, nutrition, or life coaching, investing in yourself is always a good call.

• Activities For the Family: A membership for the zoo, a gift card to go golfing, or day passes for a local climbing gym

Real talk: Experiences tend to stick with us longer than things. You’re not going to reminisce about your new socks in five years, but you’ll remember that sunrise hike.

5. Healthy Home Upgrades

Your environment affects your health, so why not make it work for you?

• Air Purifiers: Clean air is underrated.

• Essential Oil Diffuser: So your home can smell good, without all of the junk included in most candles.

• Standing Desk: For anyone who spends their days sitting and wondering why their back hates them.

• A Water Filter: Hydration, but make it clean.

6. Books That Educate and Inspire

• Cookbooks: Look for ones focused on simple, healthy meals (think Ottolenghi or America’s Test Kitchen). My current favorite? Rachael’s Good Eats.

  Wellness Reads: Titles like Atomic Habits by James Clear or The Joy of Movement by Kelly McGonigal can be transformative.

7. Give Yourself a Break (Literally)

If there’s one thing that truly promotes health, it’s rest. Don’t be shy about asking for time off or support that helps you recharge. Maybe it’s a weekend getaway, or maybe it’s simply asking for help with the kids or chores. Whatever it is, prioritize your well-being.

Pro Tip: Be Specific

If you want something, name it. Asking for “healthier stuff” is too vague and might land you with a kale-colored scarf. The clearer you are, the better your odds of getting something you’ll actually use and enjoy.

Final Thoughts

The holidays are a chance to realign your priorities. Asking for gifts that promote health isn’t selfish—it’s a statement that you’re ready to invest in yourself. So go ahead, put “yoga classes” or “a weekend retreat” on your list. Ask for things that make you feel stronger, calmer, and more alive.

Now go crush that wish list—and maybe throw in a little something for someone else’s wellness journey, too.