At Herren Wellness we understand that the holidays can be a challenging time for those in recovery. Friends and family members may not know how to support them, and find the perfect gift to give. We understand that if you’ve supported a friend or family member through their journey to recovery, you are probably excited to celebrate their sobriety!
Recovery gifts have come a long way, and in this blog we round up eight ideas for gifting your loved one in recovery this holiday season.
1. Personalized Sobriety Date Medallion
For people living in recovery, a sobriety date is significant. It symbolizes the day when their journey through addiction ended and life in recovery began. Gifting a sober person in your life a personalized sobriety date medallion will show that you care about their recovery and remember their special date.
2. Sobriety and Mocktail Recipe Books
Gifting books for the holidays is always a great go-to, and it also applies for the sober people in your life. There are many options for “quit lit” (books about sobriety) however we recommend We Are the Luckiest by Laura McKowen and Basketball Junkie by Herren Wellness founder Chris Herren. Another great option is a recipe book for making mocktails…just because the sober person in your life no longer drinks alcohol, there are so many fun options for them! We love Good Drinks by Julia Bainbridge.
3. Gifting an Experience
When loved ones get sober, their whole lives open up to them. They can feel the joy in living, which also includes taking in new experiences. Gifting a unique experience is a thoughtful and fun way to show the sober person in your life that you support them. Depending on their interests this could include a spa day, a cooking class, horseback riding lesson, an exercise class, or a no cost experience like a day trip to a park for some quality time together. The options are endless and it will be very appreciated.
4. Specialty Coffee
It may be a stereotype, but people in recovery tend to cherish their coffee. If your loved one attends recovery meetings there is a good chance coffee is served! You can gift either a bag of coffee from a specialty roaster (we enjoy the popular Kicking Horse) or you can purchase a coffee subscription from Trade where they will send monthly boxes of specialty coffee to your loved one. Either way the gesture will be welcomed!
Image Courtesy @kickinghorsecoffee
5. Fun Ice Molds
These days fancy ice can be found in craft cocktails all around, but just because someone doesn’t drink alcohol doesn’t mean they should miss out on this fun trend! This gift would pair great with a mocktail recipe book, and thanks to the internet there are endless options of ice molds to choose from. From classic sphere and square molds, to diamond shaped ice, Christmas ornament molds, and even unicorn ice shapes, the creativity is up to you. This gift will surely be unique and may even get a laugh.
6. Personalized Candle
In recovery self care is prioritized. A great way to show that you support your loved one’s sobriety is by giving them something that supports their self care. A candle is always a great go-to gift, but you can take it a step further and personalize a candle in light of sobriety. Candles can be made to include an inspirational quote, a personalized note to your loved one, and fun recovery memes. Every time your loved one lights the candle they will think of you!
7. Journal
Journaling is a go-to tool for those in recovery, whether it is reflective writing, 12 step work, or creative, putting pen to paper is good for mental and emotional health in sobriety. Gifting your loved one a journal will show that you understand the journey they are on and support their process. You can create a personalized journal or gift them a self-help journal with meditation and prayer prompts. Journals with daily readings are also available to encourage writing everyday.
8. DIY Kits
DIY kits are a unique and special gift for those in recovery. A life in sobriety opens doors for new hobbies, and trying new things is great for well-being. Some fun options for the sober person in your life are acrylic pour painting, a face mask tie dye kit, or a miniature greenhouse making kit. The options are endless when looking online, so gift something you know they’ll love or something new and fun to try!
At Herren Wellness we understand that support from family and friends helps those on the healing journey of recovery. The holiday season can be challenging for those in sobriety, however having support around them and receiving thoughtful gifts that encourage recovery will put a smile on their face.
If you or anyone you love is struggling with substance use at any stage or emotional health, we are here throughout this holiday season.
About Herren Wellness
Herren Wellness is a thriving community of people at all stages of their recovery journey. We introduce healthy habits and routines centered around emotional, physical, and spiritual wellness that provide a solid foundation for rediscovering your interests, experiencing joy in sobriety, and building structure and routine.
We provide several alumni support communities, including a weekly recovery support group, monthly alumni meeting, and online alumni community you can access anytime. Your connection to Herren Wellness doesn’t end when your stay ends; we are there for you throughout your recovery journey.
