GIFT GUIDE: Functional gifts and fun activities to treat your favorite introvert
The holidays are coming, which means it’s time to start thinking about what to give the people in your life.
If you have someone who is an introvert, you'll know that they prefer gifts that support their interest and as much as possible, less social interaction. Some like hands-on hobbies, some enjoy a good cup of tea, and others prefer activities they can do at their own pace.
Whether the introvert in your life is a hobbyist or someone who likes exploring new things in their own quiet way, here are gift suggestions to make them feel loved and remembered this holiday season.
Weighted blanket
If your favorite introvert person likes to sleep alone, give them a cozy and restful sleep with a nice weighted blanket, perfect for the cold weather and the busy errands this holiday season. Reports have shown that using it during sleep promotes relaxation, eases stress and anxiety as it triggers the release of serotonin and reduces cortisol, and calms the nervous system. Another study also said that it helps improve sleep, like those suffering from insomnia.
“The idea behind a weighted blanket is that it gives the sensation of being held or compressed or having that sensation of something kind of just gently pushing on you,” said Alicia Roth, PhD, sleep psychologist for the Cleveland Clinic. However, she noted that its effect may vary for everyone. Experts have also advised avoiding giving it to those with respiratory problems, like sleep apnea, diabetes, or severe heart conditions, as the pressure of the blanket may be unsafe.
Grab yours via e-commerce platforms or Comfort Living PH.
Noise-cancelling headphones
Whether they're a gamer, a movie geek, a digital nomad, or someone who enjoys music all day, every day, a good quality noise-cancelling headphone makes a thoughtful and practical gift.
Try the SONY WH-1000XM6 (P27,999). Its elegant design features a wider headband and smooth vegan leather, ensuring a pressure-free fit for long listening sessions. It also uses advanced processors and an adaptive microphone system to deliver crystal-clear audio and noise cancellation.
Kindle
If you have the budget, give your avid reader friends a library at their fingertips with Kindle. Its compact design lets you enjoy books anytime, anywhere—even while doing chores. Plus, it emits lesser blue light, so it’s easier on the eyes for longer reading sessions.
You may get them on Lazada, Shopee, and Amazon.
Tea sampler set
Whether a quiet afternoon or a quick pick-me-up on some days, make their alone time better with a thoughtfully curated tea sampler set. Several local brands, like Tsaa Laya, offer presentable gift sets complete with premium tea flavors for hot and iced tea, plus desserts to pair with.
Coffee gift package
Help your introvert friends skip the crowd at coffee shops and treat them to a gift set of premium coffee beans, which is a thoughtful way to elevate their daily brew. You can find quality selections from local brands and online platforms such as TheVault.ph or Ritual.
Puzzles
@runitdecks Rotating Barrel DIY Mechanical Puzzle #runitdecks ♬ original sound - RunIt Decks | Cards & Puzzles
If they like to do some small projects, give them puzzles. Opt for 3D puzzles or mechanical ones—wood or metal—to take the fun and challenge up a notch. Not only will they get to enjoy their alone time productively, but the puzzle can also serve as a thoughtful keepsake from you.
You may check the option at KKV stores or at RunIt Decks at Greenhills in San Juan.
Rock climbing
For adventurous introverts, treat them to a day of indoor rock climbing! This thrilling experience demands focus and concentration, allowing them to challenge themselves without needing constant social interaction. It can be a solo activity or bouldering, or you can do it together through belaying or partner bouldering. It may be crowded in rock climbing gyms, though, so better to book on weekdays or at less crowded gyms.
The Bouldering Hive offers multiple packages for beginners and pros. If they're new to rock climbing, you can get them the Intro to Bouldering + Day Pass + Rental Shoes for only P1,300.
You can also try Climb Central Manila in Mandaluyong, which offers unlimited climbing for the entire day for P650.
Paragliding
Another exciting option is treating them to a tandem paragliding experience. Lasting around 15 minutes or less, this activity offers stunning aerial views of nature while keeping social interaction minimal—aside from a brief discussion with the pilot during the pre-flight briefing.
High 5 Paragliding is offering activities in two sites in Rizal. For the peak flying season (October to May), activities are held in Cardona, Rizal. The rates are P2,900 for a weekday flight and P3,400 on weekends.
Meanwhile, during the off-peak season (May to October), paragliding moves to Pililla, Rizal. The rates for Pililla are P3,500 on weekdays and P4,000 on weekends.
You can buy gift vouchers, which are transferable and valid for one year from the date of purchase.
Pottery making
If they enjoy a quiet yet productive day, consider taking them to a pottery-making session. Whether they prefer working solo or joining a class with you, it’s a wonderful way to relax—and you’ll create lasting memories in the form of your own handmade pieces.
You may book a specific class or private sessions at Bumi & Ashe or Wabi Sabi. Meanwhile, Studio Matisse is offering a traditional Japanese pottery-making class for two on Dec. 7. Priced at P4,250, the session includes the workshop, appetizer, and two iced teas and wines. Book your slots via this Instagram page.
A full spa day
For hard-working introverts, a full day at the spa is a chance to step away from daily stress and recharge. This is their chance to relax and unwind without having to deal too much with other people.
You may check out Nanyang Spa Leisure in Parañaque, which offers its signature spa at P1,500 for one hour. There's also the Luo City Spa at Seaside Blvd, MOA Complex, where you can also enjoy an indoor pool and jacuzzi, free haircut, premium buffets, and fun time via arcades and KTV, depending on which service you'll avail. The entry rate is P3,000 for members and P4,000 for non-members. Learn more about its offerings here.