Whether you’re tearing round the shops buying last minute gifts, dealing with the in-laws, or waking up at the crack of dawn to stuff a turkey, Christmas has that annoying habit of being one of the most stressful times of year. Now think of your most stressed out friend or family member and think about what the festive season must be like for them. Do your bit this Christmas with a gift which will promote serenity and tranquillity for a few precious hours.

Yoga Retreat

Chilling out at a yoga retreat doesn’t have to mean taking a flight to India to spend a month in an ashram. Just one weekend in the country, away from the pressures of daily life is enough to leave someone chilled out and refreshed. Chandra Yoga offers yoga weekends in the UK. Their retreat in Leicestershire is in a brilliant location out in the country where guests can breathe easy.

Jo Malone Candles

A bit of candle light goes a long way to aiding relaxation, and an added scent just gives it that extra nudge. A bag of tealights from the pound shop won’t really cut it as a gift, but these delights from Jo Malone look and smell as expensive as they are; particularly this Lime, Basil & Mandarin one. Throw in some travel candles if they’re also off to a yoga retreat and you’ll be someone’s favourite for the foreseeable future!

Harvey Nichols Chillout Kit

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Everything you need in one box for that chilled-out spa experience in your own home. Luxurious bath soak, camomile tea, a sleep candle and rest mask are all your stress-head friend needs to kick back and reach a place of serenity. The chillout kit doesn’t come cheap but it does have that ‘special gift’ factor.

Nap Massaging Bed Chair

Ooh, what a delight – an all in one massager, reading chair, tea holder, and reading light. Nowhere in the world is more relaxing than your own bed, so imagine giving someone the gift of their own little retreat right at home. Oh, and not forgetting – the Nap Chair also massages while you’re reading a book and sipping a camomile tea!

Solar Sun Jar

If you suspect that the long dark nights might be a cause of stress but a holiday in the sun is out of the question, this Solar Sun Jar might just be the answer to your stressed friend’s problems. This little jar of rays collects sunlight throughout the day and releases them automatically when the moon comes out. Altogether now… ‘you are my sunshine, my only sunshine’.

For more great gift ideas for him and her, from designer furniture to top-of-the-line sound systems to simple stocking fillers, visit ConranShop.co.uk.