Behavior Change and Health News


Give the Gift of Health and Fun

Dad really doesn’t want another cordless screwdriver this year, and your sister has enough lotion gift sets to moisturize an entire state for a month. Looking for a meaningful gift for that special someone? Consider something that will inspire that person to get moving and eat well. That’s something we can all use to recover from holiday stress!

Think Fun

Kids aren’t the only ones who get excited over a new toy. Encourage the inner child with these fun gifts.

  • Stability ball—This is a great item to use for strength training and balance moves. The balls come in all different colors and sizes and in a variety of prices.
  • Ice skates—Skating works several muscles and burns off those desserts quickly! Involve the whole family in this fun winter pastime.
  • Frisbee—This activity is inexpensive and easy to play any time of year in the snow, on the beach, or at the park. Get creative and decorate a one-of-a-kind disc they’ll treasure.

Gifts for the Gourmet

Find something for the culinary experts—and even the microwave masters—on your list. Tempt their taste buds with one of these food-related favorites.

  • Exotic spices—Get them to try saffron, cumin, or some other spice that’s a bit different. Wrap it up with a few recipes that include their new seasonings.
  • Kitchen gadgets—Encourage them to eat their fruits and vegetables. There’s a kitchen tool for cutting grapefruit, slicing cucumbers, and grating cheese. Put together a variety in an attractive cup or canister they can keep on the counter.
  • Gift baskets of healthy food—Rather than the usual assortment of chocolates or high-fat cheeses and meats, give a basket filled with fruits, whole-grain snacks or pastas, or low-fat nonperishable items. For ideas, visit www.pro-gift-baskets.com/healthy or www.HarryandDavid.com.
Of course, if you can’t decide what to get, you can always give a gift certificate. Find a local restaurant that offers healthy options, or let them choose something from a sporting goods store. To give a truly meaningful gift, give a “coupon” good for a few hours of fun you can spend together taking a cooking class, taking a dance or karate lesson, or hiking at a nearby state park. You’ll give the gift of health and fun that’s sure to be appreciated.

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