Vancouver Gift Ideas – Give The Gift Of Self-Care 2020 has been a year like no other and as we approach the holiday season it has left many of us wondering what Christmas is going to look like. Traditionally this has been a time for packed schedules, holiday parties, shopping and peak consumerism. But somehow,
2020 has been a year like no other and as we approach the holiday season it has left many of us wondering what Christmas is going to look like. Traditionally this has been a time for packed schedules, holiday parties, shopping and peak consumerism. But somehow, like everything else in the world, it feels as though this holiday season is going to look a bit different.
More than ever we are craving human connection, stability, and rest. Somehow stressing over Christmas shopping or adding one more errand to the list seems less important when compared with the big picture. Just as the trees shed their leaves and animals go into hibernation for winter, we too as humans need time to rest and recharge. This is why this year at Artel we want to encourage our friends, family, staff, and clients to focus on thoughtful self-care rather than consumption.
Constantly consuming social media and news has been shown to increase anxiety levels and have a negative effect on one’s mental health. Take some time to unplug, limit your screen time, and give your mind a chance to rest.
While you’ve got some extra time from unplugging from social media, reconnect with something you love. Whether it’s an old friend or even an old hobby, make reconnection a priority and remember the things that bring you joy.
It can sometimes feel like we need to say Yes to everything. Whether it’s pleasing a family member or living up to someone else’s expectations, saying No can feel daunting. Ask yourself what it is you really want to spend your time doing and give yourself permission to say No.
Sometimes creating memories can be the best present to give. Focus on giving the gift of experiences this year. Whether it’s planning an activity or giving a gift card for an experience this can be an amazing way to create memories and limit the environmental impact of consumerism. You could even do a Mother daughter spa day that would include wash and blow-drys at Artel Salon!
Vancouver hairstylists Eliza Trendiak (owner of Artel Salon) and Melisa Taylor (Hairstylist chair renter at Artel Salon) exploring Galiano island on rented electric big wheels. This was one of our favourite memories. Talk about experiences we won’t soon forget and it was supporting local businesses and eco-friendly! Experiences or adventures are the way to go!
2020 has been extremely difficult for local artisans and small businesses. Think about ways you can support your local community by giving hand-made or environmentally responsible gifts. *wink wink* Our favourites are giving Kevin Murphy hair products because they are environmentally friendly and all packaging is made from recycled ocean waste plastic!
This Kevin Murphy Shine Bright Holiday collection includes a free YOUNG.AGAIN and all the bottles are made from ocean waste plastic!
Nula Apothecary is hand made in small batched by one of Artel’s Hairstylists Melissa Taylor! If your looking for a unique local gift, look no further! She began to grow her own flowers and herbs to use in her infusions and waters, as well as foraging around the PNW for pine sap, rosehips, nettle, wild roses and the like for her products. Each product has been made in small batches and with luxurious ingredients to ensure quality and it’s completely vegan!
You can buy Nula in all three Artel Salon Locations or pick it up on the Artel Salon online store as well as the Nula website!
Looking for the perfect gift for dad (or mom…moms BBQ too!)? Search and Rescue Denim is a custom apron shop in Vancouver. All their aprons are designed and manufactured on Grandville Island. The different types of af aprons, fabrics, colours, pocket placements, and varieties are almost limitless. You can even get custom embroidery done on your apron to fully make it a special gift from the heart.
Take some intentional time to treat yourself. As hairstylists, we think there is nothing more relaxing than getting your hair washed with an amazing scalp massage and blowdry. Other ideas include taking a walk in nature, reading a good book, journaling with a good cup of coffee, or getting a massage.
Take the time you need this Holiday Season to examine what brings you joy and be kind to yourself knowing that this year was a lot to process for everyone. 🙂
