The Healthy Valentine’s Gift Guide

Written By Judy Doherty

1. Elevated Edibles

Forget the sugar-laden drugstore boxes and opt for nutrient-dense treats:

  • High-Percentage Dark Chocolate: Look for 75% cacao or higher, or brands that use alternative sweeteners like coconut sugar or monk fruit.

  • Artisanal Nut Butters: Exotic blends like cashew-chai or pistachio-sea salt.

  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil Set: A high-quality, polyphenol-rich olive oil is "liquid gold" for foodies.

  • Manuka Honey: A luxurious, medicinal-grade honey that feels special and supports immunity.

2. Wellness & Self-Care

Help them decompress and recharge:

  • Magnesium Bath Salts: Great for muscle recovery and improving sleep quality.

  • Red Light Therapy Device: A targeted wand or mask for skin health and inflammation.

  • Essential Oil Diffuser: Paired with calming scents like sandalwood, lavender, or yuzu.

  • Silk Pillowcase: Better for skin and hair health compared to cotton.

3. Active & Functional

Gifts that support a vibrant lifestyle:

  • Smart Water Bottle: One that tracks hydration or has a built-in UV purifier.

  • Luxury Yoga Mat: A high-grip, non-toxic mat (like natural rubber) makes a daily practice feel more premium.

  • Recovery Tools: A high-quality foam roller or a handheld massage gun for at-home tension relief.

  • Mushroom Coffee or Adaptogen Blends: Think Lion's Mane for focus or Reishi for relaxation.

Judy Doherty

I am a food, beverage, and CPG product photographer specializing in photos, stop motion, and video, with over 90,000 photos and motion graphics delivered. Clients hire me for my eye, creative direction, and passion for taking their idea to the next level.

My strength lies in a nimble and lean creative process. Clients love getting creative content at a reasonable cost since my studio can art direct, style, and shoot their images quickly and on budget. My studio features an extensive surface library and prop house with a fully equipped kitchen and two shooting studios.

My experience as a chef, stylist, and photographer has earned many awards, including APA Top 100, ACF Gold Medal, and a juried fine art photo exhibit at Art Basel Miami. I was Executive Pastry Chef for two Hyatt Hotels and Resorts before completing two post-baccalaureate certificates for Visual Art and Graphic Design at U.C. Berkeley Extension in San Francisco.

https://judydohertyphotography.com
Next

Where does heart health stand with the new Dietary Guidelines?