Finding the perfect gift can be a challenge, especially when you want to give something that promotes a longer, healthier, and happier life.
Whether it’s for Christmas, a birthday, or just because, gifts that encourage well-being and longevity are thoughtful and appreciated.
From fitness gadgets and active days out to nutritious food recipes and mindfulness tools, there are countless options to help your loved ones live their best lives. Let’s explore some inspiring gift ideas that can contribute to a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.
Gift Idea No 1: Trainers (not slippers!)
Comfortable shoes will help your loved ones stride out. Aim to walk briskly for 3 x 10 minutes a day for optimal health. The Couch to Walking 5k plan is a great place to start.
Access the Couch to Walking 5k plan
Gift Idea No 2: Healthy Meal Cookbook.
Moving more and eating better improves wellbeing. Cooking can soothe stress, build self-esteem and curb negative thinking by focusing the mind on following a recipe. Studies have shown that people who are regularly active are more conscious of what they consume. Discover a new family favourite meal.
Gift Idea No 3: Resistance Bands.
Resistance bands are a cost and space saving way to give someone the necessary equipment to keep their muscles, bones and joints strong. Follow an exercise programme or try an online class.
The benefits of resistance band exercises
Gift Idea No 4: Crossword puzzles
Challenge your brain and mind whatever your age. Crossword puzzles and number puzzles like sudoku can improve thinking and memory. They can also be a way to relieve stress by offering a valuable way to relax. You can pick up a reasonably prized puzzle online or at your local store.
The benefits of puzzles for the brain
Gift Idea No 5: Pedometer or Tracker.
Being active is important at any stage of life. Tracking your activity is a great way to monitor fitness and stay motivated. Many phones have in-built pedometers, or you can pick up a reasonably priced fitness watch online. You can monitor your progress with our free online tracker.
Sign up to the free Activity Tracker
Gift Idea No 6: Yoga or Pilates Mat.
All adults should aim to do activities that improve balance and strength at least twice a week. Yoga or Pilates can improve posture, flexibility, balance and strength. You can practice yoga at home using an online class or find a class near you.
Gift Idea No 7: Annual Membership.
Membership to a sports club, country park, community groups like u3a or a leisure centre can bring cost savings over the year. The annual commitment will help keep you motivated and going back for more. Discover what’s on your doorstep with a Country Parks annual pass:
Kent Country Park’s Season Ticket
Gift Idea No 8: Gardening Gloves or Tools.
Gardening is a great form of physical activity whatever your age and ability. The fresh air will help lift your mood and make you feel more energised. Discover the health benefits of gardening.
Gift Idea No 9: Walking route maps.
Explore your local town on foot or bicycle and discover the best of what your area has to offer. To help you get started we recommend Explore Kent’s Town Maps, available in digital format and hard copies.
Gift Idea No 10: Set of weights.
All adults should aim to do activities that build muscle and strengthen your bones and joints. Lifting weights can reduce injury risk and improve heart health all in the comfort of your own home. You can pick up a reasonably priced set of weights online or on the high street. To get started we recommend you follow an exercise programme.
The benefits of lifting weights
Gift Idea No 11: Dance Class.
Dancing with other people reduces stress and blood pressure, which lowers the risk of heart disease. From Zumba to Belly Dancing, find a class that’s right for you.
Gift Idea No 12: Active Day Out.
Being active together as a family is not only beneficial for the health of the whole family – young and old – it can also help make fantastic memories that last a lifetime. We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to an active day out across Kent and Medway.
Active Days Out across Kent and Medway
We hope you find our gift ideas useful and inspiring when you’re looking to give something that promotes a longer, healthier, and happier life. If you have any other gift ideas, we’d love to hear about them. Get in touch with Michelle Bird, our Health & Wellbeing Officer, at michelle.bird@kent.gov.uk
