Brighten Their Days: Gifting a SAD Light for Someone with Seasonal Affective Disorder

The winter months can be a challenging time for those who suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). 

Shorter days and limited sunlight can lead to symptoms such as low mood, fatigue, and a lack of motivation. 

If someone in your life struggles with SAD, a thoughtful gift that could make a real difference is a SAD light. (I bought one for my wife a couple of Christmases ago. It was a very welcomed gift.) 

Here’s why a SAD light is the perfect present, how it works, and tips on choosing the right one.

What is Seasonal Affective Disorder?

SAD is a type of depression that occurs at certain times of the year, most commonly in autumn and winter. It’s believed to be linked to reduced sunlight exposure, which affects serotonin levels, circadian rhythms, and vitamin D production. Symptoms can range from mild lethargy to severe depression.

A SAD light, also known as a light therapy lamp, can help alleviate symptoms by mimicking natural sunlight, promoting better mood and energy levels.

Why a SAD Light Makes an Ideal Gift

Improves Wellbeing: A SAD light can significantly boost mood and help regulate the body's internal clock, making winter months more manageable.

Thoughtful and Personal: Giving a SAD light shows you’ve put thought into their wellbeing and are offering practical support.

Practical Benefits: These lamps can be used during work or relaxation, making them a versatile addition to their daily routine.

How SAD Lights Work

SAD lights emit bright, full-spectrum light that mimics natural sunlight. When used for 20–30 minutes a day, usually in the morning, they help to:

Boost serotonin levels for improved mood.

Regulate melatonin production for better sleep.

Align circadian rhythms for more energy during the day.

The intensity of the light, measured in lux, is key. Most SAD lamps offer 10,000 lux, which is sufficient to replicate outdoor light exposure.

Tips for Choosing a SAD Light

When selecting a SAD light as a gift, consider the following:

Light Intensity: Look for a lamp with 10,000 lux for effective therapy.

Size and Design: Compact, portable designs are ideal for desk, dressing table or table-top use, while larger models may be better for home settings.

UV-Free Light: Ensure the lamp is UV-free to avoid skin or eye damage.

Ease of Use: Look for features like adjustable brightness, timers, and a sturdy base.

Certification: Check for medical certifications or endorsements to ensure the lamp meets quality standards.

Thoughtful Pairing Ideas

To make the gift extra special, pair the SAD light with:

A cosy blanket: Encourage them to create a snug morning routine.

A journal: Help them track their mood and progress.

A book on mental health: Provide tips and insights into managing SAD.

A playlist of uplifting songs: Brighten their day with music.

A Personal Touch

When giving the gift, include a heartfelt note to let them know you care. You could write something like:

"I hope this light brings a little more sunshine to your days. You’re not alone in this, and I’m here to support you every step of the way."

Conclusion

A SAD light isn’t just a gift; it’s a beacon of hope during the darker months. By giving one, you’re not only offering a practical solution but also showing your love and support in a meaningful way.

This Christmas, help someone you care about brighten their days and feel the warmth of your kindness, even in the chilliest of seasons.

Why a Personalised Mug is Still a Popular Christmas Gift

In the ever-evolving world of Christmas gift-giving, where high-tech gadgets and luxury experiences often dominate wish lists, some classics remain steadfastly cherished. 

One such example is the personalised mug, which continues to warm hearts (and hands) as a popular Christmas gift. But what makes this humble item such an enduring choice?

1. Practicality Meets Personal Touch

A mug is one of the most practical items you can give someone. Nearly everyone starts their day with tea, coffee, or hot chocolate, making it a universally useful gift. Add a personal touch—such as a name, meaningful quote, or inside joke—and it transforms from a simple vessel into a cherished keepsake.

This dual functionality of being both useful and sentimental ensures that a personalised mug is more than just a gift; it’s a daily reminder of the giver's thoughtfulness.

2. Perfect for All Ages and Relationships

Personalised mugs have an unparalleled versatility. Whether you’re shopping for a co-worker, a beloved grandparent, or your best mate, a customised mug can suit any recipient. For children, you can add cute illustrations or their favourite characters. For adults, a sleek design with their initials or a witty phrase might hit the mark.

This adaptability makes it an ideal choice for secret Santa exchanges, close friends, or family members alike.

3. Affordable Yet Thoughtful

Not everyone has the budget for extravagant gifts, and that’s okay. Personalised mugs are relatively inexpensive, especially when compared to high-end presents. Despite their affordability, they don’t feel cheap because they require thought and effort to personalise.

The added element of design—whether it’s a heartfelt message or a funny meme—ensures the recipient feels valued without the giver breaking the bank.

4. Nostalgia and Emotional Value

Christmas is a time for nostalgia and creating memories, and a personalised mug fits seamlessly into this narrative. It can commemorate milestones, like a new job, a baby’s first Christmas, or even a shared experience from the year. Seeing a cherished photo or a warm message every morning evokes a sense of connection and belonging that aligns perfectly with the festive spirit.

5. Endless Customisation Options

Thanks to modern printing techniques, the options for customisation are limitless. From high-quality photo mugs to minimalist designs, glitter finishes, and heat-sensitive colour-changing styles, there’s something for every aesthetic. This variety ensures that a personalised mug can reflect the recipient’s personality and preferences, making it truly unique.

6. A Mug for Every Occasion

While Christmas might be the immediate reason for gifting, personalised mugs have a timeless appeal. They can be used year-round and often become part of someone’s daily routine. They’re also highly durable, serving as a constant reminder of a happy moment long after the holiday season ends.

Conclusion: The Simple Gift with a Big Impact

In an age where people value thoughtfulness and individuality, the personalised mug remains a timeless and meaningful Christmas gift. Its practicality, emotional resonance, and customisation options make it a standout choice for those looking to give a present that’s both simple and impactful.

So, this Christmas, skip the generic gifts and opt for a personalised mug—because nothing says “I care” quite like a morning cup of warmth designed just for them.

You can order them online, in high street printshops or in concessions in supermarkets or some chemist shops. 

Do you plan on gifting mugs this year? Share your ideas in the comments below!

New Year ResOILution from Borderfields

As a vibrant component of a healthy diet – Borderfields cold pressed rapeseed oil can ease you into the new year with an abundance of nutritional merits, including a near perfect balance of Omega 3, 6 and 9. 

It also has half the saturated fat content compared to olive oil, has no additives and is a good source of natural Vitamin E – improving health, wellbeing, and lifestyle.

If you haven't discovered Borderfields range of infused oils yet, you are in for a treat, with garlic, sweet basil, thyme, smoked chipotle and the award-winning Sicilian lemon – you can add a touch of gastro glamour to the turkey, the roasties and the parsnips, and the taste party doesn't need to end there, for a limited time only, you can order a nutritional 12 oil hamper – a great Christmas gift for the foodie in your life.

Each hamper contains all the oils you will need to get you through Christmas and into 2025.

Gold Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 500ml x 2 | Gold Fragrant Garlic Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Sweet Basil Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Thyme Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Sicilian Lemon Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Gold Smoked Chipotle Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Basil 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Lemon 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Garlic 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | Chilli 2 cal Spray Cold Pressed Rapeseed Oil 250ml | The Everyday Rapeseed Oil Spray 250ml

The Borderfields Gold Infusion Gift Pack offers four dinky 100ml bottles, or you can pick and mix six bottles with free delivery.

A spokesperson said: "We may not have Frankincense and Myrrh, but our GOLD range will help create some star dishes through Christmas, Boxing Day and Beyond."

https://borderfields.co.uk/

@borderfieldsoil

Alternative Christmas Cake Recipes Without Dried Fruits

When we think of traditional Christmas cakes, dense fruitcakes packed with dried fruits like raisins, sultanas, and currants often come to mind. 

While they hold a nostalgic charm for many, they’re not everyone’s cup of tea.

 Some people are allergic to dried mixed fruit so always have to miss out on the Christmas cake that everyone else is tucking into. 

But it doesn't have to be that way! That's Christmas has curated several alternative Christmas cake recipes that don't use any dried mixed fruit at all!

If you’re looking to break from tradition or simply avoid dried fruits, here are some delicious alternative Christmas cake recipes to try this holiday season.

1. Chocolate & Hazelnut Christmas Cake

For chocolate lovers, this cake is a festive dream. Rich, moist, and decadent, it swaps dried fruits for nuts and cocoa.

Ingredients:

200g dark chocolate

150g butter

200g caster sugar

4 eggs

200g self-raising flour

100g ground hazelnuts

50ml milk

Optional: a splash of orange zest for a festive touch

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line a round cake tin.

Melt the chocolate and butter together, then let cool slightly.

Beat the sugar and eggs until fluffy. Gradually mix in the chocolate mixture.

Fold in the flour, hazelnuts, and milk until smooth.

Pour into the tin and bake for 45–50 minutes, or until a skewer comes out clean.

Decorate with a chocolate ganache and festive sprinkles.

2. Citrus & Almond Cake

This zesty cake brings bright, fresh flavours to your Christmas table without a single raisin in sight.

Ingredients:

3 large oranges (zest and juice)

200g ground almonds

5 eggs

200g sugar

1 tsp baking powder

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 170°C (150°C fan). Grease and line a round cake tin.

Zest and juice the oranges. Set aside 2 tbsp of juice for glazing.

Beat the eggs and sugar until pale and thick. Stir in the almond flour, baking powder, and orange zest.

Pour the batter into the tin and bake for 40–50 minutes.

Brush with an orange juice glaze while warm and garnish with candied orange slices or flaked almonds

3. Spiced Apple & Ginger Cake

Perfect for those who love warm spices, this cake is moist, aromatic, and full of festive flavour. (This is my favourite alternastiove 

Ingredients:

2 large apples, grated

200g plain flour

2 tsp baking powder

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp ground ginger

150g sugar

150g butter, melted

2 eggs

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease a loaf or bundt tin.

Mix the dry ingredients in a bowl.

In a separate bowl, beat the eggs and sugar, then mix in the grated apples and melted butter.

Fold the wet mixture into the dry ingredients.

Pour into the tin and bake for 40–50 minutes.

Decorate with a simple icing or dusting of icing sugar.

4. Coconut & Pineapple Christmas Cake

For a tropical twist, this cake offers a fresh and light alternative.

Ingredients:

200g crushed pineapple (drained)

150g shredded coconut

200g self-raising flour

150g sugar

3 eggs

100g butter, melted

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line a round cake tin.

Beat the eggs and sugar until fluffy. Mix in the melted butter and pineapple.

Gradually fold in the flour and coconut until combined.

Pour into the tin and bake for 35–40 minutes.

Decorate with whipped cream and toasted coconut flakes.

5. Nutty Carrot Cake

Carrot cake isn’t just for spring—it makes a wonderful festive treat with the right spices and toppings.

Ingredients:

200g grated carrots

200g self-raising flour

150g brown sugar

2 tsp mixed spice

100g chopped walnuts

2 eggs

150ml vegetable oil

Instructions:

Preheat the oven to 180°C (160°C fan). Grease and line a square or round tin.

Mix the dry ingredients, including the carrots and walnuts, in a large bowl.

Beat the eggs and oil, then combine with the dry mixture.

Pour into the tin and bake for 35–40 minutes.

Top with cream cheese frosting and crushed nuts for a festive finish.

Tips for Decorating Alternative Christmas Cakes

Icing Alternatives: Swap traditional marzipan and fondant for cream cheese frosting, chocolate ganache, or a dusting of icing sugar.

Garnishes: Fresh fruits, nuts, edible flowers, or festive sprinkles make excellent decorations.

Thematic Shapes: Use bundt tins, loaf pans, or cupcake moulds to add variety to your presentation.

By embracing these alternative Christmas cake recipes, you can create festive centrepieces that cater to all tastes and dietary preferences. Let the baking begin!

Funky Christmas Jumpers: Embrace the Festive Fun

Christmas jumpers have gone from being a slightly embarrassing gift from your gran to an essential part of festive fashion. 

Whether you’re rocking a light-up Rudolph, a sequinned snowman, or a tongue-in-cheek slogan jumper, these playful knits are a brilliant way to spread holiday cheer. 

What brought this blogpost on? I opened my Christmas jumper drawer and thought: "Yes! This will make a fine topic for another blogpost!"

Here’s why you should fully embrace funky Christmas jumpers this season and how to style them with flair.

Why Christmas Jumpers Are a Must-Have

They Bring Joy: Nothing says "holiday spirit" quite like a cheerful jumper. They’re an easy way to make people smile, whether you’re at the office or the family dinner table.

Perfect for Any Occasion: From work parties to lounging at home, Christmas jumpers strike the perfect balance between comfort and festivity.

Creative Expression: With so many designs available, you can choose a jumper that matches your personality, whether it’s funny, chic, or outrageously over-the-top.

Charitable Fun: Many Christmas jumper days, like Save the Children’s Christmas Jumper Day in the UK, help raise funds for good causes. Looking fabulous while giving back? Win-win!

How to Choose the Perfect Funky Christmas Jumper

Consider Your Audience:

Keep it tasteful for work events or family gatherings. Think cute reindeers, snowy landscapes, or classic Christmas motifs.

For casual get-togethers, the wilder, the better—go for LED lights, pom-poms, or even musical jumpers!

Go Bold with Colours:

Festive reds, greens, and golds are traditional, but don’t shy away from unexpected colours like pastel pinks, icy blues, or monochromatic whites for a modern twist.

Make It Personal:

Jumpers with slogans like "Santa’s Favourite" or personalised ones featuring your name or pet’s face make a fun and unique statement.

Vintage Appeal:

Charity shops and vintage stores are treasure troves for retro Christmas jumpers. They’re sustainable and have a nostalgic charm.

How to Style a Funky Christmas Jumper

For Work Parties: Pair your jumper with smart trousers or a midi skirt and ankle boots. Add a bit of sparkle with jewellery or a festive headband.

Casual Days: Throw on your jumper with jeans and trainers for an effortlessly cool look. Bonus points for a Santa hat or reindeer antlers.

Christmas Day Glam: Wear your jumper with a tulle skirt or tailored trousers. Finish with statement shoes to balance the casual top with a chic bottom.

Layer It Up: Use your jumper as a statement piece over a collared shirt or under a blazer for added texture and warmth.

Where to Find Funky Christmas Jumpers

High-Street Brands: Stores like Primark, Marks & Spencer, and Next offer affordable and stylish options.

Online Marketplaces: Etsy and Not On The High Street have unique, handmade designs that stand out.

Sustainable Choices: Opt for second-hand jumpers from charity shops or rent one for a single occasion from services like HURR.

DIY Your Own: Get crafty with an old jumper and decorate it with baubles, sequins, and fabric paint. It’s a fun project and guarantees a one-of-a-kind design.

Christmas Jumper Day

Don’t forget to mark your calendar for Christmas Jumper Day, celebrated in mid-December. It’s the perfect excuse to showcase your best (or worst) jumper while raising funds for charity. Gather your colleagues, friends, or family and make it a tradition!

Funky Jumper Etiquette

Own the Look: Confidence is key. Even if your jumper has a dancing penguin on it, wear it like it’s haute couture.

Avoid Overheating: Christmas jumpers are cosy, but indoor gatherings can get warm. Choose lightweight fabrics or wear a breathable layer underneath.

Match the Mood: If you’re unsure about how funky to go, scope out the vibe of the event beforehand.

This festive season, don’t shy away from the glitz, glitter, and unapologetic fun of funky Christmas jumpers. They’re not just clothing—they’re a celebration of holiday joy, laughter, and togetherness. So pull one on, pour a mug of mulled wine, and let your festive spirit shine bright!

Gifting Training Courses for Christmas: The Gift That Keeps on Giving

Finding the perfect Christmas gift can be a challenge, especially for loved ones who "have everything."

This year, why not think beyond material possessions and consider gifting a training course? 

It’s a thoughtful, practical, and highly personalised way to show you care about someone’s passions, goals, and self-improvement.

Here’s why training courses make an excellent Christmas gift and how to choose the right one.

Why Gifting a Training Course Is a Brilliant Idea

Invest in Their Future: A course can open doors to new opportunities, whether it’s professional growth, a new hobby, or personal development.

Customised to Their Interests: From creative pursuits like painting to career-focused options like coding or leadership training, there’s something for everyone.

A Gift of Experiences: Unlike physical gifts that might gather dust, learning experiences create lasting memories and skills.

Flexible and Convenient: Many online courses are self-paced, allowing the recipient to learn whenever it suits them.

Eco-Friendly and Clutter-Free: Training courses don’t require packaging or storage, making them a sustainable gift choice.

Types of Training Courses to Consider

Professional Development:

Courses in management, marketing, or IT skills can give a career boost.

Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Udemy, and Coursera offer a range of industry-specific certifications.

Creative Hobbies:

Painting, photography, pottery, or creative writing classes are perfect for sparking creativity.

Websites like Domestika and Skillshare specialise in creative arts.

Health and Wellbeing:

Yoga, meditation, or nutrition courses can help someone focus on their mental and physical health.

Apps like Calm or Headspace often include guided courses in their subscriptions.

Technology and Coding:

For tech enthusiasts, courses in Python, data science, or graphic design can be exciting.

Providers like Codecademy and FutureLearn cater to all skill levels.

Language Learning:

Help someone learn a new language for their next travel adventure.

Rosetta Stone, Babbel, and Duolingo offer gift subscriptions.

Practical Skills:

Cooking classes, gardening workshops, or DIY tutorials are great for hands-on learners.

Look for in-person workshops or virtual options on platforms like MasterClass.

Fun and Quirky Options:

From wine tasting to magic tricks, there are courses for every quirky interest!

Websites like Airbnb Experiences often host unique online or local classes.

How to Choose the Right Training Course

Understand Their Interests: Think about what the recipient loves or has expressed curiosity about. Do they have a hobby they’d like to refine or a skill they’ve always wanted to learn?

Check Their Schedule: Ensure the course format fits their lifestyle. Self-paced online courses are ideal for busy individuals, while in-person workshops work better for those with more flexible time.

Look for Quality: Choose reputable providers with good reviews. If possible, opt for courses that offer certificates of completion.

Consider Age and Skill Level: Select a course that matches their current knowledge level—nothing too advanced or too basic.

Personalise It: Add a note explaining why you chose this course for them. It shows thoughtfulness and adds a personal touch.

How to Gift a Training Course

Digital Gift Cards: Many platforms offer gift cards or vouchers, allowing the recipient to choose their course.

Printed Certificates: If the course provider allows, print out a beautiful certificate detailing the course and package it in a festive envelope.

Bundle It: Pair the course with a related item. For example:

A photography course with a journal for ideas.

A cooking class with a set of spices or an apron.

A coding course with a quirky mug or keyboard accessory.

Popular Platforms for Training Courses

Udemy: Affordable courses on nearly any topic.

Coursera: University-led courses with options for certificates.

MasterClass: Celebrity-taught classes on cooking, writing, and more.

Skillshare: Creative and entrepreneurial courses for all skill levels.

Domestika: Specialised creative classes with a focus on design and arts.

FutureLearn: Academic and practical courses, many of which are free.

The Open University: Accredited courses for long-term professional growth.

Why It’s Perfect for Christmas

In a season focused on giving, a training course is the ultimate thoughtful present. It’s a gift that says, “I see your potential, and I want to support you in reaching it.” Plus, it’s unique—far more memorable than yet another pair of socks or a box of chocolates.

So this Christmas, skip the queues and gift something meaningful. A training course is not just a present—it’s an opportunity to inspire, educate, and bring joy that lasts far beyond the festive season.

DIY Craft Gins: Perfect Christmas Gifts for Gin Lovers

As Christmas approaches, finding the perfect gift for the gin enthusiast in your life can be a delightful challenge. Instead of buying a bottle of their usual tipple, why not make it personal this year? 

Creating your own craft gin infusions is not only thoughtful but also surprisingly simple. With a bit of creativity and a few carefully chosen ingredients, you can craft a unique gift that’s as fun to make as it is to give.

Why Make DIY Craft Gins?

There’s something special about a homemade gift, especially when it’s tailored to someone’s taste. DIY craft gins are:

Customisable: You can experiment with flavours to suit the recipient’s preferences.

Creative: Each bottle becomes a mini work of art with the right presentation.

Budget-Friendly: High-quality gin and a few ingredients cost less than premium artisan bottles.

The Basics: What You’ll Need

Before getting into the recipes, gather your essentials:

Base gin: Choose a decent quality gin with a clean, neutral flavour profile. Avoid heavily botanical or flavoured gins, as they can overpower your infusion. Some people use a good quality vodka as the base.

Infusion ingredients: Fresh or dried fruits, spices, herbs, and botanicals.

Glass bottles or jars: Airtight and sterilised for storing your creations.

Labels and decorations: Add a festive touch with handwritten tags, ribbons, or wax seals.

Recipe Ideas for DIY Craft Gins

Here are a few festive infusion ideas to get you started:

Cranberry and Orange Gin

Ingredients: 250g fresh cranberries, zest of 1 orange, 200g sugar, 500ml gin.

Method: Prick the cranberries, mix with the sugar and orange zest in a jar, and pour over the gin. Shake well and leave to infuse for 1–2 weeks, shaking daily.

Spiced Apple Gin

Ingredients: 1 apple (sliced), 1 cinnamon stick, 3 cloves, a small piece of star anise, 500ml gin.

Method: Combine all ingredients in a jar and let it steep for 5–7 days. Strain and bottle.

Rosemary and Grapefruit Gin

Ingredients: Zest of 1 grapefruit, 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, 500ml gin.

Method: Add the ingredients to a jar, ensuring the zest is free of pith. Infuse for 3–5 days for a bright, herbaceous flavour.

Winter Berry Gin

Ingredients: 300g mixed frozen berries, 2 tablespoons of sugar, 500ml gin.

Method: Combine berries and sugar in a jar, pour over gin, and infuse for 2 weeks. Shake gently every few days.

Tips for Success

Taste Test: Sample your gin every few days to ensure the flavour isn’t too strong.

Strain Carefully: Use a fine sieve or muslin cloth to remove solids, ensuring a smooth result.

Presentation Matters: Invest in pretty bottles and consider adding serving suggestions to the label.

Personalising Your Gift

To make your craft gin gifts extra special:

Include a handwritten note with tasting notes or cocktail recipes.

Pair the bottle with a couple of elegant gin glasses or a small tin of garnish like dried orange slices or juniper berries.

Add a festive ribbon or gift bag for a polished look.

The Joy of Giving

There’s no better way to spread holiday cheer than with a homemade gift from the heart. DIY craft gins are more than just a thoughtful present—they’re a reflection of the time and care you’ve taken to create something truly unique. This Christmas, let your creativity flow and give a gift that will be savoured and remembered.

Cheers to a merry and gin-filled holiday season!