This is a post for all the good friends out there who are putting their brains to work to figure out what to send a friend going through a hard time so that they can show how much they care and how supportive they intend to be.
What To Send A Friend Going Through A Hard Time To Provide Comfort
Considering that’s obviously you, I’ve listed 15 things to take into account when you’re deciding what to send a friend who is struggling right now for any reason.
I mentioned these ideas because they are thoughtful gestures that can show your friend that you care and are thinking of them during their challenging time.
Each suggestion serves a different purpose and can provide comfort or a helpful distraction in its own way.
So let’s pick the best one for you so that you can show support for your friend who is having a hard time right now.
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Note: Although I am a Clinical Social Worker, engaging with this website does not establish a professional social worker-client relationship. The information provided here is for general purposes only and should not be considered professional advice. While we strive to ensure accuracy and reliability, this content is not a substitute for professional guidance. For specific concerns, issues, or situations, it is essential to consult a qualified professional and present your situation. Read the full Disclaimer here.
WHAT TO SEND A FRIEND GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME
#1 A JOURNAL OR GUIDED JOURNALING PROMPTS
If you do this you might be able to encourage your friend to engage in self-reflection and emotional processing by gifting them a journal.
A journal is a helpful tool for self-reflection and growth because it will support their:
- Emotional expression
- Increased self-awareness by reflecting on their thoughts, emotions, and behaviors
- Improved problem-solving by exploring different solutions through writing
- Memory retention by recording experiences and observations.
Use these 2 of my blog posts to find the one you think that can help in their situation:
- THE BEST 9 PERSONAL GROWTH JOURNALS THAT WILL INSPIRE YOU TO MOVE FORWARD IN 2023
- THE BEST SELF-LOVE JOURNALS TO HELP YOU FINALLY BREAK FREE FROM UNNECESSARY RESTRICTIONS
Alternatively, you can provide guided journaling prompts that help them explore their feelings and thoughts during this challenging period.
You may want to read this later:
Or you can check out these recommendations and chose one or more as a gift for your friend who is going through a tough time.
Self-Love Workbook and Journal For Women: Release Self-doubt, Build Self-compassion, and Embrace Who You Are
Help your gift recipient embrace who they are with this guided self-love book for women of any age and any background. They’ll embark on your journey of self-discovery by learning what self-love is, and then immersing themselves in exercises to help them build their self-esteem and improve or elevate their relationships.
This very successful self-Love workbook created by a fellow Megan Logan, LCSW is designed with a clear intention to empower women on their journey of self-discovery and self-love
The self-love workbooks typically include exercises, prompts, and activities that encourage self-reflection, self-compassion, and self-care, in addition to practical tools and strategies for setting boundaries, managing stress and anxiety, and cultivating healthy habits.
By giving someone a self-love workbook, you are providing them with a valuable resource that can empower them to take control of their mental and emotional health, develop a more positive and compassionate relationship with themselves, and ultimately, improve their overall well-being.
I’ve collected a few helpful Self-Love Workbooks in my post: The Best Self-Love Workbooks To Help You Finally Break Free From Self-judgement Through Self-Compassion And Self-Acceptance.
Self-Love Workbook for Black Women: Empowering Exercises to Build Self-Compassion and Nurture Your True Self (Self-Love Workbook and Journal)
African American woman especially may be juggling many roles can leave little time for self-care. With this in mind, here’s an empowering self-love and self-care workbook designed to help them prioritize their joy, healing, and growth, with affirmations and exercises that nurture authentic self.
Help your recipient embrace self-love, build inner peace, and cultivate confidence while exploring themes of self-compassion and community.
A Year of Self-Care: Daily Practices and Inspiration for Caring for Yourself (A Year of Daily Reflections)
This is a 12-week anxiety and self care journal that will help your gift recipient process what’s occupying their mind and gently re-frame their thoughts, so they can manage their worries before spiralling out of control. This could potentially help them if they are feeling anxious even to start self-exploration.
It was designed to meet them where they are and guide them to developing a practice of dedicating a few minutes a day to reflect on their thoughts, detect the sources of anxiety, and prioritize their overall wellness and mental health. This is dedicating a few minutes to themselves they really need.
It has:
- Daily Journaling Pages
- Self-Care Ideas
- Therapy Reflections
- Emotional Support Cheat Sheet
- Fear-Setting Exercises
- Habit Trackers
- Monthly Progress
Paid link: SELF-LOVE JOURNAL FOR WOMEN: Prompts and Practices for Your Journey to Self-Worth, Self-Care, and Self-Acceptance (Workbook and Journal)
Self-love journals often include prompts for self-care activities and practices. By prioritizing self-care and making it a regular part of their routine, your gift recipient can nurture their physical, emotional, and mental well-being. This Self-Love journal includes prompts and practices for taking a path of self-worth, self-care, and self-acceptance.
Through this type of journaling, they can practice self-compassion by treating themselves with kindness, understanding, and acceptance. This self-compassion is essential for healing and growth, as it allows them to embrace their worthiness.
Women everywhere encounter unrealistic societal expectations that lead to feelings of overwhelm and discontent with themselves. However, discovering the path to self-love and embracing their uniqueness can significantly alter your person’s perspective on life, and this guided journal is designed for just that.
Show Up For Yourself – Gratitude Journal
If your gift recipient would benefit from transforming their daily routine with the power of gratitude, scientifically proven to produce a number of benefits to physical and mental health, such as better sleep, improved mood and a boosted immune system, consider buying them the Show Up For Yourself Gratitude Journal.
They can experience more fulfillment and tranquility as they’re guided through six months of self-discovery, getting an opportunity each day to cultivate a higher level of positivity and reduce stress. And indulge in daily reflections featuring morning and evening sections to start and end their day on a positive note.
By regularly noting down things to be grateful for, anyone can begin shifting attitude from self-criticism to self-appreciation. Additionally, prompts within the journal can invite to acknowledge strengths, accomplishments, and moments of personal growth, reinforcing a sense of self-worth.
Conveniently, this journal’s undated pages ensure they can pick up right where they left off, fostering consistency without pressure. USE A PROMO CODE AVAILABLE FOR JOANNA BEL READERS: 10-JOVANA.
You could combine it with a gratitude card deck.
Paid link: Moments of Gratitude – 52 Reflection Cards for Positivity & Mindfulness
Support your gift recipient in cultivating gratitude with this deck of 52 thoughtfully designed cards, each offering a unique prompt to help you reflect on the good in your life.
Created by psychologists, these science-backed exercises support mindfulness, improve mood, and encourage positive mental habits.
It can used for journaling, meditation, or daily inspiration, making it a meaningful gift for anyone seeking more joy and appreciation in their everyday moments.
Paid link: The 5-Minute Self-Care Journal for Women: Prompts, Practices, and Affirmations to Prioritize You
This journal offers quick and easy self-care practices for your person to meet their needs amidst a busy life.
It stands out with 150 uplifting prompts promoting growth mindset, mindfulness, and positive intentions.
They’ll neet to spend just 5 minutes on self-care with its effortless questions, affirmations, and actions.
Plus, its user-friendly design makes reflection recording enjoyable.
Self-Love Journal for Teen Girls: Prompts and Practices to Inspire Confidence and Celebrate You
Start the new year by encouraging the teen girls in your life to embrace self-love and confidence.
The Self-Love Journal for Teen Girls offers affirmations, reflective prompts, and creative activities that help them understand their emotions and celebrate their uniqueness.
With uplifting quotes and practical exercises, it’s a powerful tool for fostering self-awareness, self-worth, and self-care.
52-Week Mental Health Journal: Guided Prompts and Self-Reflection to Reduce Stress and Improve Wellbeing
This is a year-long Mental Health Journal designed to aid your person in navigating the core pillars of good mental health so they can thrive in all areas of your life:
- calm and resiliency,
- connection and engagement,
- goals and purpose, and
- healthy living.
It can help them with being more attentive to their emotional needs, improving their mood, and defining the right goals for themselves.
A 52-week mental health journal includes:
- Quick and effective prompts to use for a few minutes each day
- Evidence-based methods transformed into exercises and research-supported techniques (For example, from cognitive behavioral therapy.)
- Inspirational quotes of wisdom from philosophers, artists, writers, and others.
#2 A SUBSCRIPTION OR MEMBERSHIP
Consider gifting your friend a subscription to a service or membership that aligns with their interests, such as a streaming platform, personal development platform, self-care subscription boxes, an educational subscription box, a book club, a yoga studio, or a meditation app.
This can provide them with ongoing support and opportunities for personal growth.
If you need a subscription box recommendation I have one I think you’ll love.
CURIOSITY BOX
Would your gift recipient care to receive a curated box of surprises, adding excitement to their month or year?
Consider The Curiosity Box that offers a unique subscription tailored for inquisitive minds.
It features premium assortment of new inventions and classic science toys that showcase concepts ranging from angular momentum to optical illusions, experiments, and collectibles curated for adults who crave exploration, delivered right to their doorstep four times a year.
Each item is accompanied by an exclusive video lesson from Vsauce, accessible only through their app.
But you got to act quickly, as each limited-edition box sells out rapidly and isn’t available again once it’s gone. Use a PROMO CODE JoannaBel25 to get 25% if you’re ready for your person to get the unique opportunity to enjoy this special subscription.
In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, Curiosity Box donates a portion of proceeds to support the fight against Alzheimer’s and dementia, contributing over $100,000 to date.
If you want to get more details on this extraordinary box invented for science enthusiast and inquisitive minds, take a look at my review: CURIOSITY BOX REVIEW: UNBOXING A WORLD OF SCIENCE AND DISCOVERY.
Here’s a gift membership recommendation.
A GIFT MEMBERSHIP FOR A PLATFORM WITH AUDIO MATERIAL
Platforms like Audible, Kindle, or Goodreads provide access to a vast library of books and audiobooks for personal growth. One can explore various genres such as self-help, psychology, philosophy, and more. For instance, Audible provides a convenient and immersive way to enjoy books through high-quality audiobooks.
It has become a popular choice for book lovers who prefer listening to books while on the go or when engaging in other activities. And is a leading platform for digital audiobooks owned by Amazon, offering a vast selection of audiobooks, including bestsellers, classics, self-help, business, fiction, non-fiction, and more.
Audible allows users to listen to books on various devices, including smartphones, tablets, and computers.
Let’s quickly go through the key features and benefits of Audible:
- Audiobook Library – access to a vast collection of audiobooks in multiple genres and categories with a wide range of titles and authors to find books that suit users’ interests and preferences.
- Membership Plans – a subscription-based membership model that provides credits to purchase audiobooks each month.
- Original Content and exclusives including audiobooks, podcasts, and series, which are available exclusively on the platform. These exclusive titles often feature notable authors, celebrities, and renowned narrators.
- Narration quality – known for providing high-quality narrations by professional voice actors and well-known narrators, enhancing the listening experience and bring the books to life.
- Whispersync for voice – technology allows users to switch seamlessly between reading a Kindle eBook and listening to the audiobook version.
Or consider a self-care subscription box.
SELF-CARE BOX SUBSCRIPTION
A subscription service delivers self-care items regularly, serving as a consistent reminder for your friend to prioritize their well-being on a regular basis.
Self-care subscriptions often include a variety of items such as skincare products, wellness items, snacks, or relaxation tools. This variety allows your friend to explore different aspects of self-care and discover what works best for them.
Get 8 premium wellness products from leading brands with unbeatable value and support your friend elevate their self-care routine with TheraBox thoughtfully curated boxes.
TheraBox partners with mission-led and cruelty-free companies delivers premium-quality, natural, clean, and/or organic self-care products monthly.
Each TheraBox includes a therapist-approved “Happiness Boosting Activity,” featuring diverse practices like journals, books, guided meditations, affirmations, games, therapeutic art, and more.
You may find useful also:
#3
Paid Link: Compact Weighted Blanket + Gentle Pressure Sleep Mask Designed for Sleeping, Traveling & Relaxation
If you’re looking for better sleep and stress relief, a weighted blanket might be just what you need. Designed to calm restlessness and improve relaxation, it’s a cozy, comforting addition to your routine—and makes a thoughtful gift too.
The Weighted 3D Sleep Mask is designed to gently relieves eye fatigue and promots deeper rest while sleeping with its breathable, contoured design. It effectively blocks light without putting pressure on your eyes, offering a comfortable way to relax.
#4
Paid link: Zen Garden Set with Crane, Pavilion, and Sakura – Includes Rakes and Sand Pen for a Meditative Session
Allow your gift recipient or yourself to enhance daily routine with a hand-crafted zen garden designed for tactile and visual relaxation.
Rolling the sand spheres can provide a calming experience, perfect for meditation or stress relief, each sphere representing Earth, Wind, Water, or Voice.
It’s easy to uleash creativity by crafting unique patterns with hand-painted resin spheres and bamboo rakes on a sustainably sourced wooden tray.
This zen garden may not only elevate the décor but can also make a caring gift, promoting wellness and relaxation for those who need it.
#5
Paid Link: Cordless Neck and Shoulder Massager with Heat – For Relaxation Anytime, Anywhere
After a long day, there’s nothing better than a deep, soothing massage to ease tension and sore muscles. This cordless massager uses gentle heat and 6D kneading technology to mimic real hands, helping to relieve stiffness in the neck, shoulders, and back.
Its hands-free design makes it easy to use while working, relaxing, or even doing chores. Used as a thoughtful gift for a loved one or a way to unwind yourself, it’s a simple way to bring comfort and relaxation into everyday life.
#6
Paid Link: Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphones
Allow yourself or your gift recipient to enjoy comfortable, pressure-free listening with Bluetooth Headphones, featuring soft memory foam earcups for a secure, lightweight fit.
They can personalize audio settings with preset or custom equalizers. And easily adjust Noise Cancelling and Ambient Noise levels for better awareness.
Additionally, the app keeps the headphones up to date with the latest firmware.
You can throw in a npise reducing curtains as well.
Paid link: Noise Reducing Curtains (100% Blackout Linen – Thermal Insulated and Soundproof for a Cozy Home)
These linen blackout curtains create a peaceful and comfortable space by blocking 100% of sunlight and reducing outside noise. Their thermal insulation helps maintain a steady indoor temperature, keeping rooms cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
Made from soft, textured fabric, they offer a natural, elegant look while also protecting furniture from fading. Perfect for bedrooms, living rooms, or any space where privacy and relaxation matter most.
#7
GIVEHUGZ – PLUSH ANIMALS FOR RELIEF (A PORTABLE ALTERNATIVE TO WEIGHTED BLANKETS)
Hugz are comforting and supportive plush friends designed with intention to help soothe anxiety, depression, stress, and improve sleep. Weighing 3.8 pounds, they are filled with certified glass beads that simulate the feeling of a perfect hug, offering a portable alternative to weighted blankets. You can heat or chill Hugz for added benefits.
Hugz intend to provide stress and anxiety relief by promoting relaxation of the parasympathetic nervous system, helping regulate heart rate, breathing, and blood pressure. They make a thoughtful gift for anyone, ideal for travel, bedtime, or anytime a hug is needed.
If you get it you’ll be also doing a good deed because with each purchase, Hugz contributes to mental wellness by donating a portion of proceeds to the Rare Impact Fund.
#8 INSPIRATIONAL QUOTES OR AFFIRMATIONS
Compile a list of inspiring quotes or affirmations and present them in a visually appealing way, such as on a card or in a small booklet.
These reminders can serve as daily sources of encouragement.
You can craft this yourself or you can buy booklets or decks of cards with suitable quotes or affirmational messages.
A good idea may be to buy them motivational cards that are humours as well, because humor is a good coping mechanism.
Check these out.
Paid link: Manifestation Affirmation Cards for Women – 50 Daily Messages for Abundance & Self-Growth
Elevate your mindset or help your gift recipient do so with this beautifully designed deck of 50 affirmation cards, each crafted to inspire confidence, abundance, and self-care.
Perfect for daily reflection, meditation, or a quick motivational boost, these pocket-sized cards aim to help stay grounded and aligned with personal goals.
Thoughtfully created by a female-owned business, they make a meaningful gift for anyone looking to deepen their spiritual practice or invite more positivity into their life.
.
Paid link: Daily Badass Affirmation Card Deck for Women
Consider these badass affirmation cards for women as well, as a daily dose of motivation, packed with humor, confidence, and self-empowerment.
Each card delivers a no-nonsense pep talk to lift mood and remind you or a gift recipient of their strength. Perfect for starting the day with positivity or carrying a little inspiration wherever you/they go.
It’s a thoughtful and uplifting gift for any woman who deserves a boost—whether for a birthday, holiday, or just because.
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#9 CARE PACKAGE
RELATED: Best Care Packages For Someone Going Through A Hard Time
Put together a care package tailored to their interests and needs.
Consider including items such as soothing tea, a cozy blanket, scented candles, a journal, self-help books, or a favorite snack.
Care packages are often filled with items that can offer comfort, relaxation, and a sense of self-care.
They show that you’re thinking about your friend’s well-being and want to provide them with some soothing and uplifting items.
Here is one you might find suitable.
Paid Link: Vanilla Coconut Spa Gift Set – Bath & Body Gift Basket for Women and Men
Treat your gift recipient or yourself to the ultimate relaxation with the Purelis Vanilla & Coconut Milk Spa Basket, designed to renew, recharge, and rejuvenate.
This precious gift set includes natural and organic bath essentials, such as body wash, bath salts, hand cream, and more, all infused with warm vanilla and moisturizing coconut milk.
The set also features premium bath accessories like hand mitts, a loofah, and a wooden massage stick, making it the perfect pampering gift. With a 100% satisfaction guarantee, this deluxe spa package is an ideal gift for anyone who loves to indulge in self-care.
Paid Link: KLUBI Birthday Gifts for Women – Sometimes You Forget You’re Awesome 12oz Funny Tumbler With Lid and Straw
This versatile tumbler, also available in rose gold, is perfect for birthdays, Christmas, or simply to show appreciation for your wife, mother, friend, or yourself.
Designed with double-wall insulation, it keeps drinks hot for 3 hours or cold for over 6, and features a leak-resistant, BPA-free lid for convenience.
And packaged in a giftable box, this durable tumbler includes a straw, straw cleaner, and lid, making it a perfect gift choice for any special woman in your life.
Paid link: SELF-CARE ACTIVITIES FOR WOMEN: 101 PRACTICAL WAYS TO SLOW DOWN AND RECONNECT WITH YOURSELF
Prioritizing well-being is crucial, especially for women who often/usually prioritize others.
“Self-Care Activities for Women” offers a variety of ways to relax and find joy, covering emotional, mental, physical, social, and professional care.
With 101 simple activities, from creating a joy playlist to cooking a healthy meal, this book encourages making time for ourselves and cultivating a habit of self-check-ins. If your gift recipient is a woman this will be a great gift to promote “positivity”.
Or a portable aromatherapy essential oils diffuser.
Paid link: Smart WiFi Essential Oil Diffuser with Voice Control, App Scheduling & Soothing Light
An aromatherapy essential oil diffuser is designed to promote relaxation, creates a calming atmosphere, and enhance well-being by dispersing therapeutic scents throughout a space.
The Meross Ultrasonic Aroma Diffuser creates a calming, spa-like environment while helping to hydrate your skin and support relaxation throughout the day or night. With smart controls and soothing ambient light, it blends convenience and comfort to elevate your well-being and make any space feel more peaceful and inviting.
You may want to check out also:
#10 DAILY PLANNER
If you feel ready to streamline your planning process and simplify daily planning to stay right on track, you can consider getting this user-friendly daily planner. What sets it apart is the undated layout that allows you to start planning whenever suits you best.
Each day you can prioritize tasks, schedule appointments, and take time to relax, as well as reflect on your day, because self-reflection matters most.
In the weekly sections you can set goals, track habits, plan meals, and organize shopping lists quickly and easily to stay organized and in control every step of the way especially if this gives you a sense of control and certainty. That’s how we can get our power and strength back.
There are 180 daily planning pages and 26 weekly sections providing a seamless 6-month planning experience.
USE A PROMO CODE AVAILABLE FOR JOANNA BEL READERS: 10-JOVANA.
You may want to add a habit tracker calendar.
Habit Tracker Calendar by Bright Day, Inspirational Journal Planner and Activity Recorder
Give the gift of motivation and productivity to yourself or someone else with Bright Day’s Motivational Weekly Action Pad, a perfect tool for someone looking to build better habits.
This undated habit journal helps them stay accountable and track progress visually, making it easier to reach personal goals.
By having a daily routine organized and in sight, we can reduce stress and focus on what truly matters.
And with its stylish and functional design, this habit tracker is a thoughtful way to support anyone in becoming the aspired version of themselves.
#11 PLANTS OR FLOWERS
Sending a living plant or a bouquet of flowers can bring a touch of nature indoors and brighten their space.
Choose low-maintenance plants or flowers known for their ability to uplift spirits, such as sunflowers or lavender or something similar.
Plants and flowers can bring a sense of tranquility and beauty to a space.
They can also symbolize growth, resilience, and new beginnings, which can be encouraging during challenging times.
Here is something you may like.
#12 A HEARTFELT VIDEO MESSAGE
If you’re unable to meet in person, record a heartfelt video message where you share words of support, encouragement, and love. Seeing your face and hearing your voice can provide an emotional connection and offer comfort.
That’s because video creates a lot of engagement, and even if the in person setting is the best, this can work as a good enough replacement.
Plus is a very thoughtful way to show that you’re there for them and that they can count on you, which is something you should also say in this video message because it will be spot on.
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#1 PUZZLE OR COLORING BOOK
Provide them with an engaging activity that can help distract their mind and provide a sense of calm.
Puzzle books, adult coloring books, or Sudoku can be great options.
Activities like puzzles and coloring can help divert the mind and provide a temporary escape from stress.
They offer a way to relax and focus on something enjoyable and engaging.
Paid Link: Better Me Yosemite USA National Park 1000 Piece Puzzle – Ideal for Hikers, Travelers, Adults, Teens & Family
This jigsaw puzzle is perfect for adults, teens, and families, helping to relive memories or plan a future trip. Completing this puzzle fosters a healthy interest in the outdoors and encourages an active lifestyle in nature.
Additionally, it can build connection by making participants find a way to collaborate to put the pieces together, giving them both the sense of accomplishment and feeling like they belong.
The 1000-piece Yosemite National Park puzzle features a collage of stunning landscapes from the park, making it perfect for those who love hiking or dreams of visiting Yosemite as well.
Or you can consider games.
Paid link: BETTER ME, THE GAME OF GROWTH
Better me the game of growth game combines personal development and relationship-building with fun, featuring conversation starters, mindfulness exercises, and goal-setting activities that promote empowerment and self-esteem.
It’s suitable for families, couples, teens, and even therapy settings, offering a mix of accountability and real-world actions like random acts of kindness to inspire growth and connection.
Players work toward fulfillment in five areas—heart, mind, tangibles, people, and body—fostering discipline, emotional awareness, and meaningful conversations.
Or combine it with its companion Famous Failures Game Of Persistence.
Paid link: BETTER ME, FAMOUS FAILURES GAME OF GROWTH AND PERSISTENCE
Better me, famous failures is a board game designed for personal development and community building with a mild competitive aspect, that revolves around sharing, goal setting, and real-world accountability.
It’s perfect for various settings like friends and family gatherings, church groups, schools, counseling, therapy.
So any group seeking a platform to engage in meaningful conversations, self-improvement, and maintaining positive goals with mutual accountability.
Paid Link: Liar Liar Party Board Game – The Family Card Game of Truths and Lies – for Kids, Tweens, Teens, College Students, Adults, Friends and Families
Liar Liar is a fun, family-friendly card game suitable for all ages, including adults, teens, and kids.
Players take turns sharing statements about themselves, while others try to determine who is lying.
Each round involves telling a truth or a lie based on assigned roles, with points awarded for correctly guessing or deceiving others.
With 200 topic cards and simple rules, it’s an excellent choice for exchanges and family gatherings. This way players spend quality, uninterrupted time together building connections and strengthening bonds.
#14 INSPIRATIONAL BOOKS OR WORKBOOKS
Select books that offer encouragement and inspiration during tough times.
You can choose self-help books, memoirs, or fiction with uplifting themes.
Include a note explaining why you think they might find the book helpful.
Books can offer solace, guidance, and inspiration during tough times.
Choosing books that align with your friend’s interests or those known for their motivational content can provide them with something uplifting to read and reflect upon.
If you need some recommendations, check out my post:
#15 MEDITATION TOOLS AND RESOURCES
Gifting someone who has a hard time meditation tools offers them tangible aids to incorporate mindfulness into their daily routine. These gifts are great gifts for someone going through a hard time because they symbolize a commitment to self-care and encouraging them to take a few moments for themselves each day reinforces the importance of their mental and emotional health.
- Mediation app or platform provides tools for relaxation, mental and spiritual growth, and mental well-being, accessible anytime, anywhere.
- Meditation Cushions (Zafus) and Mats: Comfort is essential during meditation. Meditation cushions (zafus) and mats provide a comfortable and supportive surface to sit or kneel on during meditation sessions.
- Meditation Benches (Seiza Bench): A meditation bench, or seiza bench, can be used to kneel comfortably during meditation, relieving pressure on the legs and back.
- Meditation Timer or Bell: A meditation timer or bell can be set to ring at specific intervals to signal the start or end of a meditation session or to remind you to shift your focus during longer sessions.
- Meditation Music and Sounds: Soothing music, nature sounds, or white noise can create a calming atmosphere during meditation. Some apps and websites provide ambient sounds for meditation.
- Guided Meditation Recordings: These audio recordings are led by experienced meditation teachers and provide step-by-step guidance for various meditation practices, making them suitable for beginners.
- Mala Beads: Mala beads are used as a tactile and visual aid during meditation. Practitioners can use them to count breaths, mantras, or repetitions of affirmations.
- Aromatherapy Oils(paid link) and Diffusers (paid link): Aromatherapy oils like lavender, frankincense, or sandalwood can be diffused to create a calming and sensory-rich environment for meditation.
- Breathing Exercise Tools: These tools, such as breathing apps or devices, guide users through different breathing exercises, including deep breathing and pranayama techniques.
- Meditation Books: Books on mindfulness and meditation offer valuable insights and instructions for developing a meditation practice and cultivating mindfulness in daily life.
- Binaural Beats: Audio tracks with binaural beats are designed to induce specific brainwave states, aiding in relaxation and deepening meditation experiences.
- Biofeedback Devices: Advanced biofeedback devices can provide real-time data on physiological responses, helping individuals monitor their stress levels and learn to manage them through meditation.
- Meditation Retreats: Attending meditation retreats or workshops led by experienced teachers can be a transformative experience for deepening one’s practice.
#16 HANDWRITTEN LETTER OR CARD
Express your thoughts and support through a heartfelt message.
Share uplifting quotes, memories, or simply let your friend know that you’re there for them.
This personal touch allows you to express your support and provide a tangible reminder of your friendship.
#17 PERSONALIZED PLAYLIST
Create a playlist of uplifting or calming music that your friend can listen to when they need a mood boost or relaxation.
Music has the power to evoke emotions and uplift spirits.
By curating a playlist for your friend, you’re offering them a source of comfort, motivation, or relaxation that they can turn to whenever they need it.
Include songs that hold special meaning for both of you or tracks with positive lyrics.
If you have an Amazon music account you can create your playlist easily ana share it with them. If you make the playlist public anyone with Amazon account can view and play.
#18 INSPIRATIONAL ARTWORK
Find or create artwork that carries messages of hope, strength, or resilience.
You can frame a meaningful quote, print a motivational poster, or commission a personalized piece that speaks to your friend’s journey.
This will bring to their attention daily that they have what it takes to move on, that they’re strong to overcome any struggle, and that they can be resilient amidst adversity.
Or buy it if you can’t create yourself.
Here is one example.
#19 A HANDWRITTEN LIST OF REASONS WHY THEY’RE IMPORTANT
Create a list of reasons why your friend is important to you and how they positively impact your life.
Expressing your appreciation can remind them of their worth and value.
When times are hard people can doubt themselves or feel sorry for themselves because they have a hard time decentering from their struggle that they can’t see the bigger picture.
In these moments, they tend to forget what they have done and overcome in their lives, for which it took them courage, competence, and strength that’s still there but they can’t see it clearly right now.
This list can be a gentle reminder of why they matter in this world that can help them get back on track one step at a time.
#20 HOMEMADE TREATS
Bake their favorite cookies or prepare a comforting meal that you can deliver to their doorstep.
Homemade treats can show your care and provide some comfort during difficult times.
Preparing homemade treats is a heartfelt gesture that can provide comfort and nourishment.
The act of making something with care and delivering it to your friend can show them that you’re there for them in a tangible and nurturing way.
If you found the information on the blog helpful & inspirational and you feel like giving back, you can do it by clicking the donate button after entering amount you’re comfortable with. I’ll use it to create and deliver more useful content and resources like this. Thanks for your precious contribution!
#21 GIFT CARD
Consider giving them a gift card to their favorite store or a spa, so they can treat themselves to something they enjoy or indulge in self-care.
Gift cards give your friend the opportunity to treat themselves to something they enjoy or to engage in self-care activities, providing them with a sense of relief and pleasure.
Just remember to focus on things they would appreciate if you’re gifting them something they haven’t used before.
Or just go for a safe option and gift something they use fairly regularly or something they want use but didn’t have a chance to use at all for some reason or lately.
#22 OFFER YOUR TIME AND PRESENCE
This is something you obviously won’t send physically but you’ll send it as a strong message.
Usually, the most valuable gift you can give is your time and presence.
Let your friend know that you’re available to listen, talk, or spend time together, either in person or through video calls.
You’ll also find helpful:
In that blog post I provided 8 tips that will help you show that you’re really there for your friend as opposed to just declaring that you are but failing to deliver. So make sure to check it out.
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FINAL THOUGHTS ON WHAT TO SEND A FRIEND GOING THROUGH A HARD TIME
These ideas for what to send a friend going through a hard time can serve you as place to start listing your own ideas to help you decide on what’s the perfect thing to send, or you can buy some of these recommendations.
Which ever you choose I know you’ll make a good call because your intention to help your friend who has a difficult time says it all
All of these suggestions aim to provide support, comfort, and moments of respite for your friend during their difficult time.
But, the most important thing is to let your friend know that you’re there for them and that you care.
Your gesture of support can make a significant difference in their journey to healing and overcoming their challenges.
I hope you picked one by now and I wish you good luck with supporting your friend who is going through a hard time!
And I’ll see you in the next post! Before you go, check out:
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