With a cost of living crisis raging and gloomy headlines dominating the news, it's all too easy to feel worn-out and run-down by the stresses and strains of everyday life - and that's when self-care is crucial. When you've got a lot on your mind, self-care can seem unimportant, but taking time to look after yourself in small ways can really help boost your morale and bolster your emotional resilience for taking on life's challenges.
Self-care boxes are also an increasingly popular surprise gift to brighten up a loved's one day. A hand-picked assortment of little presents lets your lucky recipient spoil themselves, and it's a wonderful way to them know much they mean to you.
Working out where to start with a care package can be tricky - what should you include? Perhaps you'll already have some personalised ideas, but if you want to include some general self-care treats we’ve collated 14 thoughtful present ideas which you or your loved ones are bound to appreciate.
Self care box ideas
Heathcote & Ivory Wild Wonder & Joy Luxury Hot Water Bottle
- Buy now from Amazon (£17)
Who doesn’t love a hot water bottle? Especially when it’s wet and windy outside, why not keep warm and cosy with this simple gift? If you're looking for something a bit more special than your standard flannel or fleece cover, we love this hot water bottle from Heathcote & Ivory with its luxurious purple velvet cover, illustrated with colourful floral designs and finished with a satin bow. Plus, it comes in a handsome card presentation box, ideal if you're planning to give it as a gift.
Avo-can-do Enamel Pin
This cute motivational pin badge might be small, but it’s sure to bring a beaming smile to someone’s face and brighten their day.
Tea Growbar
- Buy now from Waterstones (£14.99)
If you know a green-fingered guru who also happens to love a cuppa, this is definitely one to include in their self-care box - not least because the the natural properties of herbal teas are proven to boost your mood and soothe feelings of stress and anxiety. This kit from The Gluttonous Gardener contains peppermint, fennel and camomile seeds embedded in a dry block of soil. Simply place it into a suitable container and add water, then find a spot where your seedlings can enjoy plenty of natural light - with regular watering, they should soon be flourishing.
This kit from The Gluttonous Gardener contains peppermint, fennel and camomile seeds embedded in a dry block of soil.
Newby Earl Grey tea
Alternatively, if the person you’re sending the gift box to isn’t keen on getting their hands dirty in the garden, then bring the brew to them with this high-quality Earl Grey tea from Newby, which comes in a smart caddy.
Chelsea Peers Satin Leopard Print Eye Mask & Scrunchie Set
Steer your loved ones towards a peaceful night’s sleep with a handy eye mask. This fun leopard print set, available at John Lewis, consists of a colourful satin sleep mask and matching scrunchie.
Rosie Sugden Cashmere Bed Socks in Spearmint
- Buy now from Fortnum & Mason (£42)
The warm and toasty feel of knitted socks on your feet is one of life’s simple luxuries – and what better way to appreciate this than with these ultra-soft, cashmere-blend essentials?
Cashmere lavender bags
- Buy now from Etsy (£16.50)
Lavender has been scientifically proven to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, so get your friend or relative to pop one of these under their pillow to induce a restful night’s sleep or add it to their clothes drawer to keep the scent alive all day long.
The Calm & Mindful Notebook
- Buy now from Amazon (£19.95)
Get your loved one to keep track of their year by recording all of the events that have brought them joy – it will be a wonderful way to remember all of the best bits.
The White Company Calm candle
- Buy now from The White Company (£22)
A candle can completely transform a space, making it feel cosy and relaxing in an instant. This beautiful 'Calm' candle from The White Company combines therapeutic essential oils and will help your friend or family member set a chilled-out mood for the evening.
Mesmerising Oudh Accord & Gold Fine Liquid Hand Wash
With decadent notes of cinnamon leaf, nutmeg and bergamot and real 23.5-carat golden flakes, this hand wash will have your loved one on their way to feeling pampered and relaxed.
Neal's Yard Remedies Organic Seaweed and Arnica Foaming Bath
What better way to promote a sense of calm than a long, hot bubble bath? You can make their relaxation time a little more exciting too with this restorative and mineral-rich foaming bath - it's perfect for use after exercise.
Yes Girl print
- Buy now from Etsy (from £4.75)
An inspirational wall quote is a wonderful way to give an instance confidence – and this fab print is the perfect gift for whoever needs to hear this message!
Sass & Belle grey glazed effect mug
- Buy now from Amazon (£12.50)
When it comes to gifts, you really can't go wrong with a new mug. This glazed one from Sass & Belle has a beautiful rustic texture and will look amazing in a package with some speciality teas.
Neom Organics London Tranquility Perfect Night's Sleep Reed Diffuser
This Neom reed diffuser has a blend of 19 different essential oils - including English lavender, sweet basil and jasmine - especially designed to promote sleep.
