Christmas is right around the corner, and we know everyone’s ready to par-tay. Whether you’ll be hosting a bash or two, or attending as a dinner party guest, leave thecookies and cocktails to someone else. Instead, bring out a sweet treat that’s guaranteed to get the most OMGs – cupcakes. You simply can’t go wrong with cute Christmas cupcakes — especially when they feature adorable Santa hats, sugary Frosty faces, and comical Rudolph noses.
Brit + Co
Save these snowman Christmas cupcakes from melting by simply scarfing 'em down! The entire holiday party will go bonkers over the detailed decorations, too. (via Brit + Co)
Your Cup of Cake
You need these Christmas cupcakes in your life right now! Break them out while watching your fave Hallmark Christmas movies, and they’ll put you in the most perfect mood. (via Your Cup of Cake)
Baked Bree
The M&M "bulbs" on these little trees have a totally 3D effect. It’s so cool, and the technique is so easy, even the littlest bakers in the house can get in on the decorating action. (via Baked Bree)
Averie Cooks
The secret to building these green trees as tall as possible is ice cream cones. Set some on top of your Christmas cupcakes, then go crazy with the piping bag! (via Averie Cooks)
Frugal Mom Eh!
Here’s a festive Christmas cupcake that requires zero special decorating tools. Just pipe on store-bought icing straight from the tube, then add mini marshmallows and voila — a jolly Santa hat! (via Frugal Mom Eh!)
Amanda Wilens
This recipe reminds us of our fave Starbucks holiday drink, the Peppermint White Mocha. When anything sweet and minty comes in dessert form, we're there. (via Amanda Wilens)
Barley & Sage
Eggnog is *the* signature drink of the holiday season, and baking it into some Christmas cupcakes only makes it better. (via Barley & Sage)
A Virtual Vegan
Cranberry and orange flavors team up alongside pistachio in these vegan cupcakes that'll put the finishing touches on your Christmas dinner. (via A Virtual Vegan)
Little Sunny Kitchen
These jolly little guys are guaranteed to bring a smile to everyone’s face. Keep your phone handy to snap some Insta pics while you bake, because they’re guaranteed to rack up the likes. (via Little Sunny Kitchen)
Hungry Happenings
These Christmas cupcakes are made from the very best chocolate batter you’ll ever taste, then topped with a giant swirl of chocolate ganache. Add a peanut-butter cup head, an M&Ms nose, and candy cane antlers, and they’ll be utterly irresistible. (via Hungry Happenings)
Bakerella
These little treats are *snow* good. They're topped with donut holes, so you're basically getting two desserts in one! Both pieces are rolled in confectioner’s sugar before assembling, making this cupcake doubly-sweet. (via Bakerella)
Crafty Morning
Rudolph the red-nosed reindeer… had a shiny gumball nose! Your littlest guests will be wow-ed to see their fave Christmas character make an appearance on your dessert table. (via Crafty Morning)
Frugal Mom Eh!
The base of this holiday cupcake is the richest double-fudge cake batter you’ll ever taste. Prepare for the onslaught, because everyone will be asking for the recipe! (via Frugal Mom Eh!)
Pink Owl Kitchen
Blackberries remind us so much of the winter season. If you want to serve some fruity Christmas cupcakes this year, this easy recipe is your best bet! Just wait 'til you try that buttercream. (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
A Spicy Perspective
The warm spices included in chai will also warm your heart as you begin to bake these Christmas cupcakes for the fam. (via A Spicy Perspective)
One Little Project
These snowmen are super festive, and they come together fairly quickly using ingredients that you probably already have on-hand. Be sure to finish them off with a generous avalanche of granulated sugar to make them extra sweet. (via One Little Project)
The Girl Who Ate Everything
These Christmas cupcakes get their jolly flair from a peppermint stick decorated like the North Pole. How cute are these?! (via The Girl Who Ate Everything)
Half Baked Harvest
Cookies + cupcakes = dessert overload. But we're here for it! Each bite of these Christmas cupcakes will bring forth that warm, fuzzy feeling. (via Half Baked Harvest)
One Little Project
These polar bear paw-print cupcakes look just like little teddy bear paws. And the clever coconut "fur" makes them just as sweet to look at as they are to eat. (via One Little Project)
Two Sisters Crafting
Hold onto your holiday Mickey Mouse ears, because everyone’s fave Santa hat cupcakes just got a cartoonish twist. Your new favorite Christmas cupcakes have arrived! (via Two Sisters Crafting)
Your Cup of Cake
Christmas season has not truly arrived until you spend a morning sipping on hot chocolate. Be sure to invite a few friends over, because treats this sweet treat must be shared. (via Your Cup of Cake)
Bakerella
Sprinkles and candies make for the cutest little cupcake faces. These baby bears would be super adorable at a winter wonderland-themed party. (via Bakerella)
Earthly Provisions
This vegan gingerbread cupcake base will enchant you and your guests even further once you top them with tiny lil' snowmen. (via Earthly Provisions)
Kathryn's Kitchen
These Christmas cupcakes are as healthy as they get – with a darling strawberry Santa hat! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
If you’re enchanted with these adorable Christmas cupcakes, follow us on Pinterest for more fun recipes!
This post has been updated with additional reporting by Meredith Holser.
Nothing gets you in the holiday spirit quite like baking easy Christmas cookies (and making a mess in the kitchen with sugar, flour, and *all* the sprinkles). Thankfully, you don't have to be a trained pastry chef to create the best holiday cookies for Santa. Christmas cookie decorating doesn't necessarily mean sitting down with fancy candy topping and buckets of royal icing. It could be as simple as throwing together some easy Christmas cookie recipes with few ingredients or hacking cake mix to make the dough. Now that you have the confidence to get started, check out these easy Christmas recipes and get to baking!
Real Food Dieticians
With marshmallow and chocolate chunks and a pinch of cayenne pepper, these cookies are the sweet delicious kick we want in our holiday cookie. (via Real Food Dietitians)
Clean Cuisine
Here's a healthy but just-as-delicious take on the classic Gingerbread cookie. Gingerbread cookie recipe is delicious and healthy. It’s also gluten free and dairy free with a fresh taste of ginger and molasses. (via Clean Cuisine)
Kathryn's Kitchen
This no-bake cookie recipe is so easy and clever! Simply use Oreo cookies dipped in melted chocolate and then decorated with more chocolate, festive sprinkles and a Rolo candy to look like your ornament topper. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
Julia Frey of Vikalinka
Turn your holiday candy canes into these chocolate cookies, dipped into melted chocolate, for a festive cookie everyone will love. (via Julia Frey of Vikalinka)
Completely Delicious
Drizzle your cookies with white chocolate and sprinkle sparkling sugar for a cookie party favorite. (via Completely Delicious)
You can make the cookie dough in this recipe ahead of time and freeze it to save you time during the Christmas rush. When you're ready for this baking recipe, just take them out of the freezer and arrange on a baking sheet. Fourteen minutes later, you'll be enjoying one of the best Christmas cookie recipes: warm cranberry white chocolate chunk cookies — filled with melty chocolate chips. (via Brit + Co)
Is all that red and green cramping your style? Give typical holiday colors a break with these pink pastel ornament Christmas cookie idea, complete with crushed candy cane sprinkles. Eloise would definitely approve. (via Brit + Co)
The Original Dish
These almond-flavored shortbread cookie sandwiches with raspberry jam and milk chocolate will be on your holiday cookie rotation for years to come. (via The Original Dish)
Kathryn's Kitchen
Soft and chewy and reminiscent of a cinnamon roll. OMG good! (via Kathryn's Kitchen)
This warmly spiced gingerbread cookie dough can act as a base for your favorite holiday shapes and decorations. Personally, we're suckers for this making snuggly sweaters with this easy Christmas cookie recipe. (via Brit + Co)
Need a cup-shaped cookie to go with your steaming cup of hot cocoa? Try this frosted, easy holiday cookie recipe, made with store-bought ingredients. (via Brit + Co)
This Wife Cooks
Top these peppermint-infused sugar cookies with Hershey's Candy Cane Kisses for your next cookie exchange! (via This Wife Cooks)
Pink Owl Kitchen
Perfect with a cup of hot cocoa, these cardamom cookies are melt in your mouth! (via Pink Owl Kitchen)
Vanilla and Bean
These classic no-bake cookies are super simple and make tasty food gifts! (via Vanilla and Bean)
Woman Scribbles
These buttery cookies with coffee caramel and topped with chocolate are a sweet tooth's dream. (via Woman Scribbles)
Feel Good Foodie
These cookies are infused with anise seeds and topped with colorful sprinkles for extra festive fun. (via Feel Good Foodie)
Two Peas and Their Pod
These soft and chewy oatmeal cookies with tart dried cranberries, a hint of fresh orange, and creamy white chocolate are a classic crowd pleaser! (via Two Peas and Their Pod)
Barley & Sage
Add a coffee-flavored twist on classic chocolate crinkles! (via Barley & Sage)
Simon Bajada
This recipe from the new cookbook Crumbs: Cookies & Sweets from Around the World by food writer Ben Mims was inspired by a cookie recipe from Poland.
These crunchy, delicate, heart-shaped cookies come together with puff pastry, cream cheese, and a cinnamon sugar coating. (via Brit + Co)
This lightly pink holiday cookie idea is homemade, but in a pinch, just stock up at a Chinese restaurant and dip in white chocolate and crushed candy canes at home. (via Brit + Co)
These fun Christmas cookies are sure to wow all your holiday guests, including Santa himself. Plus, it's awesome to add a twist to the Christmas cookie game with zero baking. (via Brit + Co)
Express those fond holiday emotions not with words but with a custom-made emoji expression. (via Brit + Co)
The holidays can be nutty, but baking Christmas cookies definitely makes things better. These goodies can be rolled out, cut, and decorated to your liking. Plus it makes for a fun date night or girls' day activity. (via Brit + Co)
Though there aren't any animal crackers in the actual recipe, the addition of honey and oat flour will make you think otherwise. Use the dough for all of your fave rolled or cut cookies. (via Brit + Co)
Though you can make any cut-and-bake cookies with the chocolate dough, we're partial to using it for these edible hot cocoa mugs. They are finished off with a sprinkle rim, Rudolph face, and candy cane handle. They're so cute they can almost pass for the real thing! (via Brit + Co)
Who needs store-bought Oreos when you can impress your friends with the homemade version? We also think that the scalloped edges are the perfect finishing touch. (via Brit + Co)
These Christmas cookies can also double as cute decor, at least until they're all gobbled up. Add some powdered sugar before serving or add peppercorn eyes and buttons and bake until all the moisture is gone (around 10 minutes) to display them through the holiday. (via Calico and Twine)
Not only are these cookies tasty but they're extra cute. The hearts are perfect for Valentine's Day but for the holiday season swap your cookie cutters for some Classic Holiday Cookie Cutters. (via Two Spoons)
It's just not the holiday season without frosted sugar Christmas cookies. Ditch the idea of a perfect cookie and instead, top yours with a fluffy buttercream and whimsical decorations. The messier the better! (via Half Baked Harvest)
Why choose between cookies and brownies if you don't have to? This hybrid is the best of both worlds, with a luscious peppermint frosting on top. It's the thing of our candy cane dreams! It's oh-so-tempting to serve these warm with ice cream in lieu of the frosting! (via Cooking Classy)
Buttery toffee, smooth white chocolate, and rich macadamia nuts make these homemade Christmas cookies a natural pairing with hot chocolate. (via Lovely Little Kitchen)
Any combo of cinnamon and sugar tastes like the holidays to us. This easy Christmas cookie is great for all kinds of gatherings and is plain enough that even picky eaters will want one. (via Cozy Cravings)
Just when you thought mini Reese's cups couldn't get any better, they make impressively convincing snowmen hats on these unique Christmas cookies. Don't forget to save a couple cups to snack on later! (via Half Baked Harvest)
The trick in these cute Christmas cookies is making a depression in the cookies with the bottom of a glass before sticking them in the oven, so you can fill each one with as much icing as you like. Load 'em up! (via The View from Great Island)
These cookies are made with healthier ingredients (like coconut sugar, cinnamon, and almonds) and are also grain-free, dairy-free, and gluten-free. That means you can gift them to pretty much everyone on your list. (via Cotter Crunch)
If you're going to give your kids a cookie, you might as well hide a strawberry on top to balance it out. Dip the strawberry in green candy melts, add sprinkle ornaments, and let it fully harden before attaching it to the cookie with a blanket of white frosting snow. (via Lovely Little Kitchen)
Gingerbread cookies are a mainstay of the easy holiday cookie table. This recipe is made healthier with dried apples, then drizzled with a paleo-friendly caramel sauce. (via Food Faith Fitness)
Turn your favorite cup of cocoa into a festive + easy Christmas cookie with this recipe. This is definitely for the chocolate lovers out there — it's got double the chocolate and a cocoa powder topping for good measure. (via Amanda Wilens)
If you don't usually love eggnog, give this recipe a try before you write it off completely. There's only a touch of spice, but it's just enough to keep things interesting. (via Half Full)
If you love cookies but dread rolling out the dough and meticulously decorating them, use this recipe. The dough doesn't need to be rolled out before you form the cookies, and since the sprinkles go directly into the dough, the decorations are already done. (via Averie Cooks)
Soft and chewy molasses cookies are a hallmark of the holidays. And unlike some, these don't need to be chilled before baking, so they can go from the bowl to the oven to your mouth in record time. (via A Cookie Named Desire)
Chocolate, caramel, and nuts form the traditional turtle cookie — but these are a deliciously gluten-free version. (via The Skinny Fork)
If you're more of a visual learner, follow along with the easiest Christmas cookie recipe of all, the whipped shortbread cookie.
Check out our online baking classes for more easy Christmas cookie recipe ideas and inspiration and follow us on Pinterest for more recipes!
Additional reporting by Justina Huddleston and Sara Cagle
This post has been updated.
Lead image via Half Baked Harvest
Struggling with the winter blues? From the short days to the dark nights and frosty temperatures, it's not surprising that the season can have an impact on our mood. But these 41 innovative products are designed to offer a much-needed boost. From light therapy lamps and energising supplements to cozy weighted blankets and calming gadgets, these items provide practical solutions for enhancing your mental well-being and creating a brighter, more uplifting atmosphere at home.
Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.Amazon
These glasses are lightweight and comfortable for long wear, plus they don't hinder your sight. The blue-enriched white is available in three intensity settings, and can not only help with winter blues but also jet lag.
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A lack of sunlight can affect our vitamin D intake, but these gummy worms are designed to replenish the levels and naturally lift our spirits. They also contain saffron, which has been found to have natural mood-boosting benefits, and reviews say they taste delicious.
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The Hatch Restore 2 Sunrise Alarm Clock is designed to mimic a sunrise and naturally rouse you from a deep sleep. Customers say it helps them to feel alert in the mornings rather than groggy. Plus, it has a wind-down mode and soothing sounds for bedtime.
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These gummies are made with lion's mane mushrooms, which researchers believe can reduce stress, provide a burst of energy and even help to regulate mood. It's safe for kids to use too, and reviews say you can see results within days.
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This lamp has four timer settings and three intensity levels, allowing you to personalize the experience to suit your needs. The standing bracket and a 90-degree rotation allow you to adjust the angle with ease, and the sleek design means it can fit into your purse.
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One way to boost your mood is to pause and meditate. If you're a newbie, this breathing buddha works like a visual tool to count your breathing and help you block out distractions.
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Weighted blankets can help to put your nervous system into “rest” mode and promote better sleep. This velvet design feels so soft and is crafted from premium velvet. It's perfect for keeping warm on cold nights but is also breathable for the summer.
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Not only is this blanket weighted, but it has a heat function to keep you warm on those frosty winter nights. There are ten adjustable heat settings to help you find your optimal temperature, and customers say it achieves their best sleep ever.
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Struggling to adjust to the short days? This sleep mask has layered padding that gently cushions your face, plus it blocks out any light. The silky fabric makes it easy to sleep in, and it also keeps your skin and hair protected.
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This weighted face mask applies gentle pressure and can help to calm an over active mind. It's ideal for when you're struggling to switch off and can be used for both side and back sleepers.
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The winter has its challenges but the long nights can also provide the perfect excuse to unwind and relax. This blanket with sleeves offers hands-free comfort, plus there are pockets for your phone or snacks. It comes in a choice of colors and patterns, so you can pick one to suit your style.
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White noise can be a powerful tool for an anxious mind and help to improve focus and switch off. This sound machine has 31 soothing sounds, including bird song, gentle rain and the crackle of a camp fire. The sleek design also makes it a stylish choice for your nightstand.
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The sound of water can be so soothing, and this indoor piece is perfect if you're lacking in outdoor space. The three tiers create a gentle flow, and customers say it's great value for money.
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This spray has been proven to help you fall asleep faster, using the calming power of lavender, chamomile and vetivert. It's also cruelty-free and contains no sulphates, petrolatum, phthalates or synthetic colours. Simply spray onto your bed linen and enjoy the indulgent scent.
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This orthopedic pillow is designed to soothe aching necks and muscles, and promote better sleep and energy levels. It creates the perfect lift, and there are arm holes for unbeatable comfort. Plus, the gel-infused memory foam keeps you cool.
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Struggling with your energy levels when you work from home? This lamp is the perfect size for a home desk, and it's dimmable with three color settings. One customer claimed the results of this lamp were 'life-changing' after battling seasonal depression.
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This two-pack of Norb Everyday Sun Light Bulbs are designed to create the feeling of natural light in your home without harmful UV rays. The LED design is also energy efficient, plus customers say they're a breeze to install.
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The soothing essential oils of this roll on can provide an instant feeling of calm, and the compact size makes it perfect when you're on the go. Use as part of your bedtime ritual or whenever you're struggling with stress.
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If the short days have disrupted your sleep pattern, melatonin supplements can help to achieve better slumber. These gummies are chewable, and free from synthetic flavors or colors.
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The Ritual Sleep Melatonin capsules use BioSeries technology to release melatonin steadily throughout the night and ensure a better quality of sleep. They've been clinically shown to achieve deeper sleep, with one review hailing them a total 'game changer'.
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This innovative sleep blanket feels like a hug. It keeps you warm and cozy, while replicating the pressure of deep touch. Plus, there is the option to let your feet breathe if you need it.
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These Anxie-T supplements are made from all-natural ingredients, including the Ashwagandha plant which is commonly used to combat stress. You can take three in the morning to induce a natural feeling of calm and one at night for better sleep.
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Enjoy the soothing and comforting benefits of tea without the caffeine. The Republic of Tea is great tasting and the perfect addition to your night time routine. Reviews say you will feel instantly sleepy.
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This cream works to support natural sleep and offer some calming relief from anxiety or nerves. It's free from harsh chemicals and suitable for sensitive skin types too.
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If you're trying to cut down on coffee, this latte powder is made with lavender, blue spirulina and coconut sugar. It's got a deliciously smooth taste, plus the bold pop of color can add some joy to your morning beverage.
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Using low-frequency electrical pulses to calm your body, this sleep instrument can achieve a noticeable reduction in anxiety. The ergonomic design provides a comfortable grip, and it's suitable for all ages.
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Sometimes the best way to combat the winter blues is with some self-care. And these soothing sheet masks are packed with natural goodness to leave your skin glowing. The texture isn't sticky, and the formula uses three types of hyaluronic acid to tackle dry winter complexions.
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Plants are proven to have calming powers, and this bonsai tree kit is a great way to feel at one with nature. It contains four variations of seeds, and the joy of seeing fresh life grow can be an uplifting experience.
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If you want to switch off with your kids, this breathing bear can provide the most adorable meditation pal. It works to guide you through the famous 4-7-8 breathing technique, and can also work as a white noise machine and night light.
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This diffuser not only releases a calming mist, but it can also put on a light show for that feeling of a luxury spa experience in the comfort of your own home. You can enjoy the soothing mist for up to six hours, and the ultra quiet fan makes it discreet for home working.
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These Bose QuietComfort Headphones offer two innovative modes of audio. The quiet mode drowns out background noise for an immersive experience, while the aware mode allows you to be mindful of your surroundings. The ear cups provide a cushion of comfort, and just 15 minutes of charge provides over two hours of playtime.
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Made from aromatherapy natural oils, this candle from Slow North is also free of any petroleum byproducts, as well as synthetic chemical fragrances. Breathe in the calming botanical ingredients, and enjoy 30 hours of burn time.
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This zen sand garden can create hundreds of patterns, and you can adjust the colors and speeds. Sync to your phone to control with the app and create custom playlists to suit your mood.
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If you want to enjoy the calming benefits of yoga but don't know where to start, this yoga mat is designed with beginners in mind. It has the poses printed on, so you always have a visual reference for ease. Plus, the thick material provides support and comfort.
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When in water, Epsom salts break down into magnesium and sulphate and help to soothe muscles and relieve pain. This packet from Amazon is such a steal for the price and has thousands of glowing reviews.
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Make your bath feel a little more boujee with these Epsom salts from LOVERY. They're enriched with essential oils and herbs for a nourishing boost to the skin, and the packaging has such an opulent appeal.
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One of the symptoms of seasonal affective disorder is headaches, but this cap provides instant relief. The gel formula creates a cooling sensation that helps to soothe the pain, plus you can wear over your eyes to reduce puffiness.
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Being around cats can have a calming impact on our mental health, and this hoodie lets you keep your feline friend close. The fleece pouch envelopes them in comfort, while the pom poms provide some stimulation.
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Coloring can bring us such nostalgic joy, and is also a soothing stress reliever. This book is designed for all ages, and contains 52 large pages just waiting to be filled in.
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Golden milk, or haldi doodh, has been a part of Indian culture for centuries and is a warming beverage used to ward off ailments like the common cold. This superfood blend from Sunfood contains a cocktail of goodness, including anti inflammatory turmeric and energy boosting maca.
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Facial tension can lead to painful migraines, but these ice rollers are the perfect remedy. They can also tackle morning puffiness, contour the face and help you feel more alert for the day. A necessity on those cold, dark mornings.
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