A few months ago, I came across a meme that read, “The girl boss is dead. Long live the girl moss (lying on the floor of the forest and being absorbed back into nature)” and I have never felt more strongly about anything before.

This gift guide is inspired by that notion.

If I could sell you on anything, it would be the life-changing magic that is getting morning sunlight in your eyes or the benefits of grounding in nature, but I also recognize it’s gifting season and I hope this serves as some inspiration!

SMALL GIFTS UNDER $10

I own several of Meera’s journals and her create your own calm journal would make for such a thoughtful gift for just about anyone!

My sister gave me a scalp massager a few years ago and I use it all the time. I’m always trying to slow down and have to remind myself to stop rushing through the more mundane things in life. Spending time massaging my scalp while listening to an audiobook in the bath has been my favorite thing as of late. To give this as a gift, simply tie a little note with a red ribbon to the handle with a reminder to take a moment for yourself.

I bought these little decorative trees last year and they sit perfectly on my table (on sale for $3.50!)

SELF-CARE GIFT IDEAS UNDER $40

I’ve been using my Luv Scrub mesh body exfoliator for years now (I’ve replaced it twice since I first got one). Luv Scrub is a Black-owned beauty brand and once I tried their product, I never went back to a regular loofah. Not only is it more sanitary, it’s the best for scrubbing the middle of your back!

The Aveda Chakra 1 balancing mist has been a favorite of mine since 2017 (!!) and is formulated to help you feel grounded by balancing your root chakra, or center, according to Ayurveda, which is the ancient healing art of India. They have 7 different mist options, depending on what speaks to you or the person you’re gifting to.

Moon Juice MagnesiOM – I’ve been taking this every night before bed for a few months now and my deep sleep increased by 25% almost immediately (I wear an Oura Ring). So wild! Magneisum is necessary to support so many processes in the body, but this type specifically aids in relaxation, sleep, and neurotransmitter function (plus it has L-Theanine, which supports a calming state of being). If you sign up here, you’ll get $20 off your order. Just a note that you can’t apply that discount to the subscription price, only on the one-time purchase option.

I’m of the belief that if you’re a human being, you can benefit from reading The Creative Act: A Way of Being. It’s a really great read, one where you can easily pick it up and read a few pages here and there. You’ll want to bookmark, re-read, take notes–savor it!

GIRL MOSS TREND GIFTS

I like to keep this calming face mask in the refrigerator. It’s great for those days when you get a little too much winter wind on your skin.

Small little luxury: Summer Fridays mint lip balm

I’ve had both the Leather Jacket candle and Christmas Tree candle from Brooklyn Candle Studio and both made my place smell so good. I saw the Montana Forest candle is in Foxtrot right now and it’s an amazing scent, too!

The Nathalie Lete line at Anthropologie is woody and whimsical and I really love that mushrooms are having a moment. This mushroom mug is perfect for a hot coffee kind of morning!

A great addition to a candle are these “You are made of stars matches.” If you’re in Chicago, I found these at Nomad in River North. 🙂

I have several Craft Spring tree ornaments and think this sunrise tent Christmas tree ornament would be such a great addition for anyone who loves the great outdoors!

GIFT IDEAS THEY CAN WEAR

How cute and cozy are these heart cable knit socks?!

My favorite nail color for the fall and winter months. A few coats and I’m good to go!

The quality and price of the Fleur du Mal Le Stretch Multifit Lace Unlined Demi Bra are both amazing and their pieces come in a huge range of sizes (also sold on Shopbop if you’re looking to do the Amazon Prime shipping through them).

The matching bottom is a given. Either the Fleur du Mal Le Stretch Multifit Lace High Leg Thong (also sold here) or if that’s not your style, it also comes in a cheeky underwear!

My black Girlfriend high rise compressive leggings have held up so well in wear even with all the washing they’ve been through. I wash everything on cold and hang dry, which helps tremendously. They come in a full range of sizes…from XXS to 6XL This fall / winter tone paired with chunky socks, tennis shoes, and a big oversized sweatshirt is what I want to live in.

I’ve worn these shearling boots non-stop since I bought them in 2020. I would buy them again in a heartbeat, but they’re still going strong! They also come in several different colors.

GIFT AN EXPERIENCE

I’ve been seeing Kasey for acupuncture in Chicago (along with the occasional fire cupping) since June (I think?). She is such a breath of fresh air and an all-around good human. If you’re looking to gift an experience of sorts, acupuncture sessions would be really nice. Kasey practices Traditional Chinese Medicine and the benefits of seeing her can be endless, if you’re open to it. It’s impossible to leave her room without feeling different in the best way possible. Definitely one of those things you have to experience! I’m not sure that she does gift cards, but growing up, I used to gift handwritten “coupons” for various acts of service. That’s exactly what I would do for this type of thing (just something like “this coupon is good for X acupuncture sessions on me!).

If you’re looking for holiday party dresses, I can’t get enough of the festive pieces in this round-up!