Valentine’s Day is fast approaching (February 14, mark ya cals and don’t forget!), so it’s time to start hunting down the perfect pressie for the loved ones in your life.

Now, you never want to be the person who shows up empty-handed come the big day and you also want to make sure you’re showing off how well you listened when they humble-bragged about the latest PB they smashed. So if you have a nearest and dearest who is a self-confessed fitness fanatic, then this is the gift guide for you.

With all of the latest health, wellness and fitness gadgets and gizmos on hand, this is the ultimate shopping guide for that special someone. That means no fluffy robes, lingerie or cheeky toys (although we do have an excellent guide for the more sentimental pieces you can check out), we’re talking the hottest trainers, most flattering leggings and coolest gadgets to get their hearts racing this V-Day.

The best fitness and wellness gifts to shop in 2025

The time we are living in today has created robots out of humans. Today, people are more busy behind their laptops and smartphones than ever before. The problems faced by us are more mental.

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Stress, depression, anxiety, anger issues, personality disorders and mood swings are getting more prominent in the medical field. And one of the prime reasons behind these would be lack of communication with your nature, mind, body and soul.

Yes, you read that right. That’s why specialists dealing with such problems ask people to

travel

, change their environment or tell them to ‘Go where you feel most alive’! Because these problems need no medication but just being barefoot on sand or watching the sun go down behind a peak can cure 80% of your issues.

And here enters the concept of

wellness travel

.

The concept of

wellness

travel

Wellness travel has evolved in recent years. From being a niche concept to an international trend, today wellness travel attracts millions of soul-searchers seeking balance and self care. People these days are increasingly becoming aware of the significance of mental and physical wellbeing and wellness tourism.

Talking to Times Travel, Mr.

Tarun Gulati, CEO Himalayan Hotels, said, “As lives are getting busier and more stressful, and environmental conditions in the cities are deteriorating, lifestyle illnesses are seeing an alarming rise. The rise of wellness-focussed retreats is inevitable, especially in towns such as Rishikesh where

yoga

, meditation and healing therapies in the lap of nature are a way of life”.

He further said that there are several resorts in Rishikesh that are becoming sanctuaries for those pursuing holistic experiences.

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“Ayurvedic doctors and physicians conduct pre-visit and on-site consultations to tailor customised wellness programmes that encompass Ayurvedic treatments such as Panchkarma and dosha analysis, yoga, pranayama, meditation sessions, massages, aqua therapy, ancient sacred text gyan, bhajan sandhyas, sound healing and much more”.

Dr. Narendra Shetty, Chief Wellness Officer, Kshemavana- Naturopathy and Yoga Wellness Centre, Bengaluru says, “These days, there are a lot of spas, wellness centres, and resorts.

People are becoming more interested in these kinds of facilities throughout time. In our hectic lives, we began searching for new methods to maintain our health. This is how wellness tourism has expanded. Wellness travel is a combination of travel, health, and fitness. It does more than just treat symptoms; it provides users with a whole experience”.

As an industry specialist he further commented, “Despite not being a novel idea, awareness is causing it to gain traction.

Our contemporary way of life is increasing stress and having an impact on our health. As a result, demand rose. This trend was favourably received by the hospitality sector, which began creating specialized wellness facilities”.

History and wellness

If we go back in time, wellness travel was mainly focused around traditional healing practices and destinations. It included hot springs, spas, and yoga retreats.

But with the advent of the internet and better connectivity, people have become more connected and aware of wellness travel.

At present, wellness tourism is not just an idea. It comprises everything from yoga and meditation centers to adventure travel and sea holidays as well. The idea has expanded from escaping to engaging in mindful and rejuvenating activities that help people to disconnect from their mundane daily lives.

It gives people a chance to reconnect with their soul and do some introspection.

Explaining the concept further, Mohak Nahta – Founder and CEO of Atlys said, “Wellness tourism offers a variety of experiences, including traditional retreats, digital detoxes, renowned spas, and nature-focused activities like hiking and forest therapy. Destinations such as Japan, Iceland, and Costa Rica have become go-to spots, offering travellers unique opportunities to recharge both mentally and physically.

This trend highlights how self-care is becoming an important aspect of travel, as people look for experiences that combine exploration with rejuvenation”.

India as a wellness destination

India has played a significant role in this journey. The country is noted for its ancient wisdom and has long been a destination for wellness seekers from across the globe. The country’s traditions of holistic healing, spiritual growth, and wellness practices have made it an unparalleled destination for those looking to restore their mental and emotional wellbeing.

According to the industry specialist, Raj Rishi Garg, Managing Director, Vaidyaratnam Vrindavan Ayurveda Chikitsalayam, “India has been a hotspot of wellness practices like Yoga and Ayurveda. The focus on spiritual and mental well-being is deep-rooted in the Indian culture which has been fueling wellness tourism in the country. Wellness today is holistic in nature so it encompasses both physical and mental health besides inner healing.

The wellness journey starts with a location which ideally needs to be serene and naturally blessed”.

He also said that today fitness is becoming a crucial component of wellness travel. Sharing his experience, he further mentioned that at his centre, they see a lot of visitors who view physical and mental fitness as an integral part of leading a healthy lifestyle. “The younger generation especially prioritises holistic wellness and believes that the foundation of all achievements, growth, and development is keeping the body, mind, and soul in a good shape”.

Dr Vipul Lunawat, Fitness expert and Founder Director Institute of Sports Science andTechnology ( ISST), Pune, says that in today’s world, being physically fit is of vital importance. However when fitness is combined with emotional, psychological and social wellbeing it is collectively termed as wellness. Travellers want to spend on wellness camps and workshops as it helps in total rejuvenation of mind, body and soul.

There are many organizations which offer wellness tourism packages at exotic locations”.

Speaking about sportsmen and professionals, he said, “In the world of sports, professional athletes push themselves to extreme limits to win at the highest level. This not only exhausts them physically, but they get mentally drained too. If an athlete gets injured or can’t handle failures he/she gets psychologically exhausted.

Top athletes often indulge themselves into wellness programs like sound therapy, mental training sessions, yoga, ice baths etc. to name a few to rejuvenate their minds and bodies”.

Appeal of wellness travel

Wellness travel attracts a variety of demographics. Be it solo travellers seeking to reset their minds or friends looking forward to spending time together or families seeking relaxation and adventure, wellness travel offers something for everyone.

Commenting on the same, Pragya Arora, mental health expert on coto said, “Taking wellness holidays has become a common trend among travellers of all age groups, with many new wellness programs being designed by various experts. As an entrepreneur, sports and fitness expert I often take up wellness programs like sound therapy, yoga, meditation etc which gives me the much needed peace. It helps me to balance my mind to attain higher productivity.”

Comparing the concept with Bollywood, she further said, “Much like Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara, wellness travel is all about stepping away from the rush of life and reconnecting with yourself. Just as each character in the movie found healing through experiences like deep-sea diving, skydiving, or simply being amidst nature, wellness travel invites us to pause, reflect, and reconnect”.

Mr. Raj Singh, Founder & Chairman, Antara Cruises – Heritage River Journeys Pvt Ltd.

also shared his experiences and said, “At Antara Cruises, wellness and fitness are at the core of our guest experience, especially as sailing on the Ganges offers a unique backdrop for holistic rejuvenation. The rise of wellness travel in recent years reflects a growing desire to disconnect from the hustle and reconnect with oneself. We’ve seen a surge in demand for wellness-focused journeys, and we’re thrilled to offer yoga as part of our itinerary.

Guests aboard our cruises participate in yoga sessions led by expert trainers with great enthusiasm, enjoying the tranquil surroundings of the Ganges. The serene atmosphere enhances mindfulness, making it the perfect environment for both beginners and seasoned practitioners. As the demand for wellness travel grows, we continue to provide an enriching and immersive experience, where fitness and well-being meet the peaceful rhythms of the river”.

Waking up blessed, not stressed

These days, people are travelling more as the pandemic left a lifetime deep-rooted effect. The virus accelerated the rise of wellness travel, as many people started looking for ways to improve their physical and mental health while navigating the uncertainty and stress by being jailed inside their homes. Today, travel has become therapeutic and people feel that life is better barefoot.

Maldives is another top spot for wellness seekers. Amjad Thaufeeg, Commercial Director, Kuda Villingili Resort, Maldives, said, “Wellness has become an integral part of travel, including family vacations and leisure trips, reflecting a growing emphasis on holistic health and well-being. We embrace this trend with immersive wellness programs such as yoga, meditation, personalized fitness, and plant-based culinary experiences”.

He further stressed that travellers today seek authentic experiences that connect them to their destination, moving beyond generic offerings which highlights the importance of integrating wellness into travel, enabling guests to recharge physically, mentally, and emotionally.

Calling wellness and fitness a intertwined journey towards holistic well-being, Shreans Daga – Spiritual Teacher and Chairman, Pyramid Valley International says, “ True wellness exceeds fleeting five-minute activities, demanding commitment, focus, and hard work.

Fundamental transformation is achieved when the mind, body, and soul are in harmony”.

Advancements in the wellness industry

Modern advancements in the wellness industry have also played an important role in the rise of wellness tourism. Today we see more spa centres, Yoga retreats and resorts offering wellness experiences like never before. Locations such as Bali, Thailand, and Costa Rica and India are becoming hotspots of wellness travel.

Stressing on the point, Chamindra Goonewardene, VP of Sales & Marketing at Resplendent Ceylon, said, “Wellness has evolved to include more than just exercise and appearance, now focusing on overall well-being. Resplendent Ceylon’s approach to wellness is seamlessly woven into the guest experience across its properties, with Kayaam House standing as a prime example. Located on the Rekawa coastline, the accommodations are designed to create a peaceful atmosphere, and guests can participate in customised wellness programs focused on Ayurveda, tailored to their individual needs.

From deeply satisfying massages to oil-based therapies designed to awaken the nervous system, all treatments will incorporate remedial Ayurvedic elements”.

With all the expert statements and views, it can be concluded that wellness travel is a booming industry today. The reason behind this is purely human’s need for relaxation, personal growth, and mental relaxation. As society continues to prioritise health and self-care, the demand for wellness tourism will only grow, making it an essential part of the global travel industry.

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When it comes to the best holiday gifts to give someone—whether it’s a nice Christmas gift for friends or an affordable stocking stuffer for family—you really can’t go wrong with a thoughtful wellness gift. After all, everyone can use a little more health and wellness in their lives.

In fact, “wellness” is one of those buzzwords that can mean a whole bunch of things—from relaxing practices like aromatherapy for pain to physical practices like exercise, nutrition, and of course, meditation. And now, there are so many products out there you cater to the genre. This means you have plenty of options when it comes to buying the best gifts for the health gurus in your life. (Seriously, the possibilities are endless!)

To save you the legwork, we went digging to find the best of the best and corralled all the most thoughtful wellness picks for every type of person out there. We’re talking relaxing stress relief gifts for that person in your life who’s always frazzled, cozy home picks to help them unwind in comfort and even plenty of meditation gifts for anyone who could use some more zen in their life. And we couldn’t forget all the best fitness gifts, of course—including everything from gym and yoga essentials to a new pair of comfy sneakers to help them meet their walking goals.

Covering a range of categories, all of these gifts put wellness first. Choose one (or a few!) presents for the people on your list this holiday season.

With holiday shipping deadlines nearly here, it’s high time to snag one of the best fitness gifts for friends and family members who may or may not have their exercise routines down to a science. Even if they’re already alternating workout classes during the week, upgrading their fitness gear or unwrapping a buzzy new workout accessory can help your favorite wellness lover level up their approach.

Elevated gym essentials like and a , plus, stylish gear like , , and , will not only be appreciated by your giftees but will likely also become the workout staples they never knew they needed. And since a well-rounded routine doesn’t stop at an actual workout, we also found a treasure trove of items to help guide recovery efforts, as well as general self-care needs, like Lululemon’s coveted .

We’ve rounded up the best fitness gifts that are both effective and highly coveted by Bazaar editors and exercise enthusiasts from across the internet to help with your holiday shopping list. These training favorites are sure to impress even the most dedicated workout devotee.

Morgan Riddle has not only built a career as a lifestyle and fashion influencer but was hired by Wimbledon to host the show “Wimbledon Threads,” a video series on the tournament’s fashion. Riddle is an entrepreneur while also traveling up to 40 weeks a year. While many follow the mega-influencer for her style, I follow for her amazing (and surprisingly attainable) wellness tips. With an incredibly hectic schedule and living life on the road (she travels up to 40 weeks a year), I believe that Riddle is the master of wellness on the go when you don’t have time. So from the expert herself, here are the best wellness tips I learned from Riddle to help your mind and body feel their best—even if you don’t have a lot of time.

1. Get Movement and Sunlight First Thing in the Morning

Riddle makes it a habit to wake up and get outside to move her body every day, no matter where she is in the world (read: she’s constantly traveling). In a “Day in the Life” YouTube video, Riddle explained that she uses ClassPass to help her book workout classes while traveling (even internationally). She also walks a lot—we’re talking 20,000 steps a day—as an added bonus, she shares it helps to combat jet lag. Getting sunlight first thing in the morning is crucial since Riddle is constantly switching time zones, and her circadian rhythm can get thrown off. Sunlight exposure is a major stimulus that helps the body understand when to do certain activities like waking and sleeping. Riddle learned that to adjust to whichever time zone she’s in, movement and sunlight are key.

2. Use a Digital Planner to Add Structure to Your Routine

Living on the go can be filled with so much joy; experiencing new cultures, trying new things, and never knowing what’s next is exciting—but it also leaves little room for structure. The constant travel and changes in Riddle’s routine have meant finding ways to prioritize work tasks so she doesn’t get overwhelmed. For her, that looks like using a digital planner to track her weeks, plan out to-do lists, and organize her schedule. Working a 9-5 has a built-in structure, but as someone whose work week could easily bleed into weekends or holidays, she creates her own version of a 9-5 so she’s not overwhelmed and burnt out. She uses the app Goodnotes and the planner from Flourish to map out a work to-do list, a personal to-do list, any notes for the day, and a schedule for the week every Sunday, so she can wake up Monday morning ready for the week ahead.

3. Try A Fitness Tracker

In an Instagram video (sponsored by Oura Ring), Riddle explained she began wearing the Oura Ring because she wanted to learn how to build sustainable, healthy habits while traveling. As someone who has struggled to keep a wellness routine even in my regular day-to-day, I know how much a fitness tracker can help. The Oura ring gives you direct data from your body, including data on your sleep habits, heart health, and menstrual cycle, which all play into your body’s overall energy and activity throughout the day. It can tell you whether you’re ready for a more high-intensity workout or a slower one, whether you need more REM sleep, or if you hit your sleep goal. For someone constantly on the go, the Oura ring is an investment that makes it easier to track your wellness habits and stick to your health goals.

4. Embrace Doing Things Alone

In Riddle’s YouTube videos, she talks about how nervous and worried she was to do things like going to dinner alone (influencers—they’re just like us!), but now she truly enjoys spending time by herself. She advises starting small when embracing solo activities. Try going to a workout class or coffee shop alone, and slowly work your way up to a solo dinner date. She’s also looked at this time as a way to reconnect with her childhood self and try hobbies she’s always wanted to but never had time for, like taking a ballet class or bike riding. Riddle focuses on activities that bring her joy, get her off her phone, and connect to her body again.

5. Keep Essentials With You That Help You Feel Your Best

Whether you’re packing for a trip or preparing to go from the gym to the office, it’s important to keep essentials on you that can help you feel your best. If there’s an expert on packing a bag with wellness essentials, it’s Morgan Riddle. In a “What’s in my travel bag” Instagram reel, she revealed her checklist for getting the best sleep on a plane: a sleep mask from Drowsy, sleep essential oils, and two sets of headphones (AirPods for white noise and another over-the-head pair for soft music) that act as the perfect noise cancellation combo. She also prioritizes hydration on the plane and uses Aquaphor for her face and lips and the Summer Fridays eye serum to avoid dry skin. She also brings electrolytes to add to her water. Her last tip is to stock up on high-protein snacks because she avoids eating plane food and instead brings things like beef sticks and protein bars.

6. Practice Journaling or Morning Pages

Riddle has been a fan of Julia Cameron’s book The Artist’s Way for quite some time and practices Julia’s method of morning journaling, which is called “morning pages.” The concept involves a stream of conscious writing when you first wake up to help reduce anxiety or stress and to spark inspiration and creativity. You can set a timer or write for two pages. The point of the writing is to keep pen to paper until the time or page number is finished. In my experience, journaling has also allowed me to understand any problems arising in my life and better process my emotions.

7. Keep an “Ultimate Guide to Unhappiness” List

Even though we all do our best to keep to our healthy routines and achieve our fitness goals, we can fall back into old habits we tried to break. Riddle has a solution. In a YouTube video, she shares her “Ultimate Guide to Unhappiness List,” a list in her notes app of things that make her feel bad or lower her mood so that she can go to this list when she’s feeling down and check in if she’s doing anything on the list that could be the cause of her mood. For Riddle, the list included things like drinking alcohol, not working out, waking up late or staying out late, too much social media time, and revisiting painful memories. When we’re down in a rut, we can often beat ourselves up for not doing more or not achieving more, but giving ourselves the space and understanding of why we’re feeling this way can help get us back on track.