Candles, perfume, shampoo and more — free of sulfates, parabens and phosphates — from this Malibu company show off the power of an aroma to soothe the mind. The sexy gardenia scent and clean packaging might do the work of a therapy session or two.
$37, 8-ounce body lotion, $49, six-item travel kit, http://www.kaifragrance.com and at spas and boutiques (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)
It’s tricky, deciding to give someone a present to improve them in some way, but here are some for accomplished or budding yogis, serious exercisers or for those who just need a little emotional or physical pampering.
Soft, colorful and environmentally conscious skidless mats, hand towels and other yoga accessories from a company born in a Santa Monica garage.
$64 skidless mat, $18 towel, Yogitoes, 2403 Main St., Santa Monica, (310) 437-8975 (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)
The chocolates, named for the line of energy containing the seven chakras leading to balance and serenity, contain ingredients meant to match each one (chai and cardamom for sensual, mushroom essence for transcendent) and are boxed in several sizes.
For the driest of dry skin, this hand cream with a cult following was made for ranchers, farmers and other outdoor workers, from the makers of Gorilla Glue. Water and glycerin are the primary ingredients.
$7.99, http://www.okeeffeescompany.com, and at Home Depot, Target, hardware stores and pharmacies (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)
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The Hard Tail catalog could scare away all but the most accomplished yogis, but the mostly cotton knit pants make anyone look cool with no special skills. Solid color pants with a tie-dyed fold-over waist.
$81 for capri length, Hard Tail, 1322 Third Street Promenade, Santa Monica, (310) 393-8787. Also at Nordstrom. (Kirk McKoy / Los Angeles Times)
