It’s that time of year again! While giving gifts to the ones you love is a meaningful experience, shopping for gifts can be stressful. There’s so many gifts to choose from, and yet, that doesn’t make it any easier. And don’t even get me started on finding gifts for co-workers or party games like white elephant.
But instead of worrying about finding one thing that satisfies both you and the person you’re giving the gift to, why not find a few things wrapped up into one? In comes a gift set.
Gift sets are perfect because they are like mini gifts that make one big gift, and they cater to a person’s many wishes. Below, we have listed gift sets that will work for a friend, family member, co-worker, neighbor, or even yourself. Check it out:
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I was elated at the opportunity to experience this firsthand at their newest all-inclusive resort, Secrets Playa Esmeralda in Miches, Dominican Republic. It was there that I realized that everything I’ve learned so far on my mindfulness journey had been worth it.
From listening to world-renowned mindfulness expert and author Deepak Chopra, M.D., speak to swinging on top of a mountain. I was able to tap back into who I am and relish in the person I’m becoming. Here are a few takeaways from my three-day trip.
London on the balcony of her suite at Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Miches, DR
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Luxury Is My Birthright
There’s nothing like living in the lap of luxury and Secrets Playa Esmeralda provided that and more. Once I arrived at the sprawling resort, I was greeted with champagne. Then I was whisked away to my deluxe suite and it was more than I expected. It was spacious, yet comfortable. It sat right on the beach giving me unobstructed views of the white sand and crystal blue waters.
I could hear the ocean waves in my room, which was really nice during bedtime. I had a butler who assisted me with whatever I needed and I took advantage of the turn down service every night. I spent time in the pool, on the beach, and at the spa. It was magical.
Yoga at Secrets Playa Esmeralda, Miches, DR
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Digital Distractions Are Real
Every evening, our group met for dinner with the option to put our phones away. This was in line with the theme of being present and while I didn’t mind giving my phone away, it was odd not having it with me. I know I’m not alone in saying I use my phone a lot. Whether to look something up, to take photos, or to mindlessly scroll in between conversations.
However, it wasn’t until my wrist started buzzing that I realized I was wearing my Apple Watch. Further proving how much we rely on electronics and need a break from it. While my Apple Watch is also considered a digital distraction, I wasn’t as tempted to check it as I would my phone.
London visiting Montaña Redonda in Miches, DR
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Being Present Is A Must
It was an honor to sit across from Dr. Chopra, the man who teaches on the very things I’ve been learning about these past few years. His presence was magnetic and I was excited to hear him speak live for the first time.
He joined Hyatt’s Wellbeing Collective Advisory Board and created an exclusive AI, DeepakChopra.ai for the resort. Before our intimate conversation with the author of The Seven Spiritual Laws Of Success, he led us into meditation.
From there, he dropped a lot of gems, particularly as it relates to being present. “Presence is divine,” he told us. He also shared some advice on how to stay present. “Periodically, ask yourself, ‘Am I here?’ When you ask yourself, you will be present,” he said.
I often go on exciting trips, but what made this one special was the emphasis on being present. Thanks to the constant reminder, I was able to really sit back, relax, and soak in the picturesque resort. Not to mention, I also got to explore other parts of the island like a Cacao farm and Montaña Redonda, a mountain with jaw-dropping views.
This trip came at a crucial time in my life where I was trying to figure out what to do next in my career and it allowed me to sit still and embrace the unknown.
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