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Do you need some help in choosing the best stress-relief gifts for your loved one?
If someone you care about has been stressed out lately, a gift that encourages relaxation and relief from anxiety may be the best way to show them your support.
In today’s review, we’re sharing with you nine of the best stress relief-gifts to help people recover their Zen.
Although these products don’t promise to completely eliminate stress, they are useful for reducing the impact of anxious thoughts and feelings one might have on a daily basis.
Having said that—and before we introduce the items reviewed in this post—let’s talk about why it’s important to reduce our stress levels.
Don't have time to read the entire review?
If you're a busy person who doesn't have time to read this entire review, we've simplified everything. Here is a table to provide you with a quick rating of the best stress relief gifts for your loved ones.
Product |
Best Choice For… |
Our Rating |
|---|---|---|
| Serenelite Hand Therapy Stress Ball | Best overall. Best portable stress-relief gift; ideal for relieving tension in any situation and also gives the hand a mini workout | |
| Warmies Microwavable French Lavender Scented Plush Elephant | Best anti-stress plush toy; infused with lavender for calming effect; heatable for warmth and comfort; an ideal gift for people of all ages | |
| Yogi Green Tea Super Antioxidant | Best gift for friends who need a calming and soothing beverage | |
| Pavilia Premium Fleece Blanket With Sleeve for Adult | Best gift for busy loved ones to encourage them to have a few moments to relax after a long day | |
| Dammit Doll Classic | Best humorous stress-relieving gift; encourages your loved ones to take out their frustrations out on this doll | |
| Quility Premium Adult Weighted Blanket and Removable Cover | Best stress relief gift for a loved one constantly experiencing anxiety and sleeping difficulties | |
| Moonster Leather Journal Writing Notebook | Best stress relieving gift for loved ones who write; a beautiful notebook to record thoughts and art for relief of stress and anxiety | |
| Blue Star Adult Coloring Book: Stress Relieving Patterns | Best stress-relieving activity book; allows adults to re-discover the fun and relaxation of coloring, no art degree required | |
| Adaptive Sound Technologies LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Sound Machine | Best gift for creating a relaxing ambience within a working space or during slumber |
The Benefits of Reducing Stress
There are so many mental and physical benefits to reducing stress that anyone would want for their friends who are going through a particularly high time of stress. For example, when at work, having reduced stress levels improves a person’s productivity. In the workplace, it can be difficult to find a healthy balance of productive stress and damaging stress. Stress is a fact of life for people at work, but there are many ways you can channel that stress into productivity.
A reduced amount of stress in the workplace also leads to improved personal relationships with co-workers. This is actually a factor that many people don't consider. Those who are stressed out often report that their stress doesn't impact their interpersonal relationships at work or at home.
But the truth is, when one person is dealing with stress, oftentimes the people around them feel like they have to walk on eggshells in order to not set the person off. It can be equally as miserable for the co-workers and family members of the stressed-out individual to be in that environment.
Reduced stress also improves sleep quality and decreases rates of depression and other mental health disorders. Because your stress response is triggered when you're facing overwhelming demands, you are often left awake at night either worrying about something or thinking about everything that you need to get done. The demands that are on your mind could be big or minor, but it is the importance that you attach to them that creates their impact. Pressures that you feel ill equipped to handle result in stress, which can have a negative impact on your quality of sleep and your overall mental health.
Finally, a person who is less stressed has a stronger immune system than those who tend to have more stress in their lives. Stress can have both a direct and indirect impact on your immune system. When you're stressed, your immune system’s ability to fight off bacteria, viruses, and even cancerous cells is compromised.
This makes you more susceptible to contracting infections. Also, when you experience stress, corticosteroid (the stress hormone) can suppress the effectiveness of your immune system by lowering the amount of lymphocytes in your blood, which are the white blood cells that help you fight off bacteria, viruses, and toxins that can lead to illness. Stress's indirect effect on your immune system may occur through the unhealthy behavioral coping strategies that people experiencing stress often pick up, such as drinking or smoking.
If you have a friend who you feel could benefit from these positive impacts of stress reduction, what should you look for in stress-relieving products when trying to find the best gift? Let's look at some tips for finding a gift for someone who is stressed.
How Do I Choose the Best Stress-Relief Gift?
Choose a gift that fits the recipient’s character and tastes.
While some recipients can appreciate humorous gifts, others might be offended. So, choose with care. Take some time to think about the person and the message that you want to send so you can choose a personalized gift. If needed, you can check with other people who are close to the person to get some ideas on their tastes.
Choose something that shows how much you care about their well-being and health.
The whole point of the gift is to offer support and let the person know that you are in their corner during this stressful time. Finding stress-relieving products that will encourage the recipient to take care of themselves or pamper them in some way is a great way to show that you care.
Choose something that they can use when they need it the most.
The item should not require special assembly or complicated procedures for use. This may only increase their stress because it could occupy their time doing something that they might not truly want to do. Stick to something simple.
Do not choose something that aggravates the recipient’s stress/anxiety.
For example, if the recipient is stressed because they have a lot going on and just too much on their plate, don't get them a long book on how to reduce stress. This will aggravate their anxiety about their lack of time, and will possibly overwhelm them as you offer them something else to add to their to-do list.
Avoid gifts that require additional obligations on the part of the recipient.
Don't get the recipient plants that need special care or a pet that has to be looked after. You want to find fun stress relievers, not more chores to add to the person's daily schedule.
So, what should you choose? These stress-relief gifts offer unique ideas that can not only show your loved one that you recognize they need to engage in some self-care, but also help them to do just that.
The 9 Best Stress-Relief Gifts for Your Loved Ones
1. Serenelite Hand Therapy Stress Ball
This is the best overall option. Because it is a portable stress-relief gift, it is ideal for relieving tension in any situation, and it also gives the hand a mini-workout. With each squeeze of this ball, users are able to improve their focus, increase their strength, and relax their minds. The increase in blood flow and circulation that results from squeezing this ball will give the body a renewed sense of energy to carry on through the day.
This ergonomic stress-relief ball has a tear-resistant gel core and a smooth and sleek outside covering that is made with non-stick fabric. And, because this stress ball retains its shape, it allows users to get a firm grip on it for superior comfort.
This stress-relieving ball comes with a lifetime guarantee. If your gift recipient has any questions or concerns about the product, the company is always willing to assist in order to resolve the issue.
Pros
- Great for anyone experiencing stress, no matter what their interests are.
- Portable, so can be taken on the go and used whenever needed.
- Very durable product.
Cons
- Some users find it to be too hard to squeeze.
- Too small for big hands.
- Gives hands a distinctive smell after using.
2. Warmies Microwavable French Lavender Scented Plush Elephant
This is the best anti-stress plush toy, as it is infused with lavender for a calming effect. Users can heat this up in the microwave for warmth and comfort whenever needed, which can also help soothe tense muscles.
This is an ideal gift for people of all ages, as it is safe and made using high-quality microwavable materials. These plush toys are filled with high-quality flaxseed and scented with dried French lavender.
This is an easy stress-relieving toy to use, as your gift recipient simply needs to place it in the microwave according to the instructions written on the product label in order to release the relaxing lavender smell. Users do not need to remove the inner bag, which also adds to its simplicity and ensures safety.
This is an ideal gift for people who are losing sleep as a result of their stress, as it can help relieve stress, hypertension, muscle aches, chills, migraines, insomnia, flu, and tendonitis. The weight, heat, and lavender scent of this versatile gift can sooth, calm down, and help people focus. If needed, this plush toy can also be put into the freezer to provide some relief from the heat.
Pros
- Releases a relaxing lavender scent.
- Great for children who are suffering from autism and need a calming sensory item
- The weight provides users with extra comfort.
Cons
- Cover cannot be removed, so it is not machine-washable.
- Some people see this product as being too juvenile for adults.
- Does not stay warm for long.
3. Yogi Green Tea Super Antioxidant
This is the best gift for friends who need a calming and soothing beverage. This antioxidant green tea is formulated to help reduce free radicals in the body and combat the negative impact that stress can have. The select blend of green tea used in this product is combined with grapeseed and amla extracts, which both offer natural, potent antioxidants. It also contains lemongrass, which gives this tea a citrusy flavor, while the licorice lends some sweetness.
The benefit of having tea on hand when experiencing stress is that it can be made quickly and sipped slowly. This forces the user to take a few deep breaths and relax while still having the option to continue working on the task at hand. This is also a product that can be used indefinitely, and will always provide physical benefits in addition to the mental stress-reduction benefits.
Pros
- Great option for a soothing beverage.
- Users enjoy the taste.
- Relatively inexpensive gift.
Cons
- Contains a bit of caffeine, which may increase symptoms of anxiety.
- May be some inconsistency in taste among batches.
- Some people find the taste to be too weak.
4. Pavilia Premium Fleece Blanket With Sleeve for Adult
This wearable blanket is the best gift for busy loved ones to encourage them to have a few moments to relax after a long day. The full length of the robe and soft texture of the material offer a luxurious feel that will help your gift recipient feel pampered. It is great for helping people stay warm while relaxing on the couch or reading a book.
This product is made with a soft, microfiber fabric, and it is designed to be large enough for users to wrap around their feet for increased warmth and comfort. The sleeves on the blanket help users move their arms as needed without falling off like a normal blanket would. It even includes a front pocket for easy storage of a smartphone or other essential item.
This wearable blanket is made with 100% premium microfiber polyester. It has large openings for the sleeves, so it is a perfect fit for all body types. This product comes in 11 colors, so you can choose the best style for the person you have in mind.
Pros
- Gets softer with every wash.
- Best option for lounging around the house and relaxing.
- The fabric is lightweight and breathable, and will not pill.
Cons
- Cannot be worn while standing up.
- Some people find it cumbersome that it opens in the back instead of the front.
- Has a tendency to leave lint behind.
5. Dammit Doll Classic
If you are looking to give your gift recipient a laugh, this is the best humorous stress-relieving gift you can get. It encourages your loved ones to take out their frustrations on the doll by throwing it, smacking it, or exhibiting any kind of anger necessary to use this product as an ultimate stress-relief tool. This doll is made to absorb negative energy so users can let go of their stress and tension and return to a happier state of mind.
These dolls come in a surprise print, but can also be purchased in a color or design of your choice. The recipient of this gift will love the laughs that their Dammit Doll will bring to them during times of stress.
Pros
- Best funny gift.
- Can be used however the gift recipient chooses.
- Comes in a variety of patterns and colors.
Cons
- Not as durable as expected.
- Some users wish it were a little smaller than 12″.
- Random designs are not gender neutral.
6. Quility Premium Adult Weighted Blanket and Removable Cover
This is the best stress-relief gift for a loved one who is constantly experiencing anxiety and sleeping difficulties. This weighted blanket imitates the feeling of a hug, providing comfort to users who are trying to fall asleep and stay asleep throughout the night.
Quility’s seven-layered blanket is made with an advanced sewing technology and high-quality materials to create an ideal weighted blanket. It has an extremely breathable, 100% cotton outer layer that holds millions of premium micro-glass beads. The structure of this blanket allows for proper temperature control and is guaranteed to never leak beads.
This blanket comes with a Quility removable duvet cover that can easily be removed for washing. The cover also adds warmth during colder months so you can use this blanket all year round.
Pros
- Best for people suffering from insomnia.
- Comes with a 100% money-back guarantee.
- Comes in a variety of sizes.
Cons
- Cannot be used by children under 13.
- Expensive compared to other gifts.
- Some find the weights move around in the blanket too much.
7. Moonster Leather Journal Writing Notebook
This is the best stress-relieving gift for loved ones who enjoy writing. It is a beautiful notebook to record thoughts and art for relief of stress and anxiety. This rustic leather notebook has an antique feel with a unique leather-bound cover and creamy, textured, unlined paper. The cover is made using 100% hand-crafted “crazy-horse” leather, which is tanned naturally with special oils, so no two journals are exactly the same. The paper is thick enough to handle a fountain pen or other pens that emit a lot of ink without having them bleed through the pages.
Your gift recipient can use this journal to record the events of their life, their thoughts, or anything else that helps them relieve some stress, as it is a versatile notebook that has endless uses. This journal offers 240 blank pages for users' creativity and ideas to flow. The paper is easy to write on, whether you're using a pencil, watercolor, or ink.
Pros
- Great for art therapy or recording thoughts.
- Each journal is unique.
- Great size to carry around on the go.
Cons
- Binding is a bit loose.
- Some report the leather has a strong and off-putting smell.
- Some find it to be overpriced.
8. Blue Star Adult Coloring Book: Stress-Relieving Patterns
This is the best stress-relieving activity book. It allows adults to re-discover the fun and relaxation of coloring, with no art degree required. This book allows for hours of stress relief using creative expression.
Each page offers a pattern to color, and there are also mandala coloring pages. The paper is heavyweight, meaning there is no bleed-through. Users can choose to color with markers, pens, or pencils, and it will all stay clean. It doesn't matter what your gift recipient's skill level is in art—he or she will get a lot of use out of this gift.
Pros
- Best coloring book that provides users with a stress-relieving activity.
- Has a lot of patterns to choose from.
- This is a great activity to do with someone else if your gift recipient wants company.
Cons
- Some say the pages are thin.
- Pages are not perforated, so they are not easily removed.
- Some designs are wide enough to reach the book binding, so they cannot be completely colored.
9. Adaptive Sound Technologies LectroFan High Fidelity White Noise Sound Machine
This is the best gift for creating a relaxing ambience within a working space or while sleeping. It is also a great device to use in situations where one would like to have control over their audio environment. It can help promote sleep with its white noise and fan sound machine, as it creates a peaceful environment.
This sound machine comes with 20 different digital sounds to block out noises, and users can choose from 10 different electric fan sounds as well as 10 pure white noise sounds. Users can adjust all of these sounds to their own preferences to meet their needs—anything from the sound of a whisper to much louder than the sound that mechanical fans emit.
Pros
- Great for helping people sleep.
- Can run all night without stopping.
- Blocks out any outside noises.
Cons
- Slightly expensive.
- Some say it malfunctions within months of use.
- Product is not eligible for return.
Conclusion
All of the items reviewed today are the best in their categories for stress-relief gifts. However, the standout for today is the Serenelite Hand Therapy Stress Ball for its portability, making it possible to relieve stress anytime, anywhere.
