Austin Lymphatic’s Favorite Holiday Picks for Self-Care and Gift Ideas

The holiday season is the perfect time to focus on self-care and share thoughtful gifts with loved ones. Our team at Austin Lymphatic has curated a list of our favorite products, books, and rituals that have brought us comfort and joy this year. Whether you’re looking for a meaningful gift or a way to nourish your mind and body, we hope these recommendations inspire you!

_{A Few of Our Favorite Things}

The holiday season is here, and we wanted to share a few of our favorite gems we discovered this year. Whether you’re looking for a little self-care, a meaningful gift, or a good read, we hope this list brings you as much joy as it has brought us.

I’ve never been big on gift-giving myself (it ranks at the bottom of my love languages). Instead, we’ve always opted for experiences like taking the kids on vacations during the holidays—trust me, with four sets of grandparents, they’re not short on gifts! But this year, my team and I at Austin Lymphatic wanted to share some of the products, books, and quotes that have impacted our lives. Whether it nourishes the body, calms the mind, or makes life a little more enjoyable, we think you’ll love these as much as we do.

_{Here’s a little recommendation (or two or three) from each of us:}

Carlin’s Favorites

• Osea Vagus Nerve Oil: This luxurious oil helps calm the nervous system and promote relaxation. A few drops massaged into the neck or behind the ears can do wonders for stress and tension.
  
• Rishi Ginger Turmeric Tea: A warming, soothing blend that combines the anti-inflammatory power of ginger and turmeric. It’s perfect for cozy winter mornings or evenings when you need a little extra comfort.

Melody’s Picks

• Beef Tallow Moisturizer and Soap: A natural and deeply hydrating option for winter skin. Beef tallow is rich in vitamins and fatty acids that nourish and protect the skin barrier.
  
• Four Sigmatic Organic Mushroom Blend: Melody says she adds this to her coffee every morning for a boost of immunity and focus. It’s packed with adaptogenic mushrooms like reishi and lion’s mane, which support brain health, energy, and overall well-being.

Melissa’s Must-Read

• Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry Cloud: This book is a game-changer for anyone navigating change in their personal or professional life. Dr. Cloud helps you recognize when it’s time to let go and provides tools to move forward with confidence and clarity.

Kate’s Winter Skin Saviors

• All Humans Lone Wolf Universal Oil: This is an Austin Lymphatic favorite—we use it almost exclusively in-office, and for good reason! Locally made with just a few pure, natural ingredients, this multitasking oil is deeply hydrating, reparative, and anti-aging. It soothes inflammation and redness while leaving skin soft and glowing—perfect for face, body, beard, hair, and even tattoos.
  
• Lauren’s All-Purpose Salve: A plant-powered balm that does it all. It’s non-greasy, deeply moisturizing, and suitable for all skin types. Use it as part of your organic skincare routine to keep your skin healthy and happy all winter long.
  
• Goe Oil by Jao: Made with 28 plant, fruit, and flower oils and butters, this lightweight yet long-lasting oil absorbs quickly and works wonders. A little goes a long way! Use it to moisturize skin, smooth dry or damaged hair, remove makeup, or soothe post-shaving irritation.

Natalie’s Quote of the Year

“If I had to live my life again, I’d make the same mistakes, only sooner.”
— Tallulah Bankhead

This quote is a fun reminder to embrace life’s imperfections and not be afraid to take chances.
It reminded me of the movie that came out this year: My Old Ass (I highly recommend it.

Tai’s Gentle Reminder

“Our body carries the weight of your life story; healing is giving it permission to release what no longer serves you.”

Tai said : This quote has been a personal anchor for me. It reminds me to practice patience and kindness toward myself, whether through rest, hydration, movement, or mindfulness. Small, consistent acts of self-care can lead to big transformations”.

Stephanie’s Favorites

• Undaria Algae Body Oil by Osea: My all-time favorite moisturizer. It’s lightweight, nourishing, and leaves skin glowing without feeling greasy.
  
• Loose Leaf Tea Blends from The Herb Bar: My go-to is the Calm & Grounded blend. It’s perfect for winding down and finding a moment of peace.
• If you’ve not yet hit the Herb Bar near South Congress, that’s a treat all on its own. It’s a true Austin Gem. Highly recommend!

Heather’s Cozy Essentials

• Osea Vagus Nerve Bath Oil: A soothing, therapeutic bath oil that helps you relax and release tension after a long day… clearly, we are a fan of this brand.
  
• The Republic of Tea Hibiscus Pineapple Lychee Tea (Cold Brew): A refreshing and hydrating tea that feels like a tropical escape, even in the middle of winter.

Books That Inspired Heather this Year:

• Babel by R.F. Kuang: A beautifully written novel about language, power, and resistance.
  
• Outsmart Endometriosis by Dr. Jessica Drummond: A must-read for anyone navigating endometriosis and looking for holistic solutions.
  
• Come As You Are by Emily Nagoski: An empowering book about understanding and embracing women’s sexual health.

Jess’s Go-To Favorites

• The Book of Boundaries by Melissa Hartwig: This book came to me as a recommendation from a dear friend/client and has been completely transformative. I wish I had come across this sooner in life. I have bought several copies and given this one to many people in my world. It’s a practical guide to setting healthy boundaries in all areas of life. A must-read!
  
• EuroSpa Shower Mist: I stumbled upon this in the hot springs at Ojo Caliente in New Mexico last February and it’s made shower time even more enjoyable and therapeutic. Just a few spritzes of eucalyptus or lavender mist can work wonders for relaxation. I love this stuff!
  
• Pixi Glow Peel Pads: These gentle exfoliating pads keep my skin glowing and refreshed, even during the driest months. I use them twice a week at night on my face, neck and chest. It’s currently the only exfoliant I use. These are definitely coming on the road with me!
  
• Trish McEvoy High Volume Tubular Mascara: I’ve searched for the perfect mascara for about 25 years. I’ve tried them ALL. I just don’t like them! They either smear by the end of the day or are impossible to get off. Or I can’t swim without looking like a mess, or, worst of all, most mascaras Burn my sweet, little eyes. I LOVE this Mascara for everyday use. It’s not really a high-impact like most people like, but it’s very subtle, and you can build to how much length and volume you want. It doesn’t burn my eyes, stays on when it gets wet, and comes right off when I wash my face. And, don’t tell anyone, but If I fall asleep with it on, it stays in place. I like it in Deep Aubergine but plan to get the black for fun. Because sometimes, it’s the little things (like great lashes) make you feel put together.
  
• Sage/Smudging Practice: I’m very smell-sensitive so I’ve always stayed away from sage and incense in general. But this year I started a Smudging practice and it’s been my favorite part of my morning and evening Gratitude routine. I love incorporating this ritual into my day to clear energy and set positive intentions for the day, or to Let Go of things that may have come up.

Wishing You a Happy and Healthy Holiday Season

From our team to you, we hope this list inspires you to treat yourself or a loved one to something special. Whether it’s a nourishing oil, a good book, or a moment of self-care, remember that small joys can make a big difference. Wishing you peace, warmth, and all the good vibes this holiday season!

With all the Love, Jess and the Austin Lymphatic Team