zen

The holidays are the most wonderful and maybe the most stressful time of year. Transforming our homes into places of peace and serenity can give us, and those we love, refuge from the storm.

A peaceful home starts in our heads and hearts. That said, there are a number of affordable items that can profoundly help set the stage for a low-stress environment. Here are a few of our favorites -- let us know in the comments which items you think should be added to the list and we'll update here!

1. Essential Oil Roll-On

Essential oils are, well, essential stress reducers. This simple roll-on is only $10 and infused with all-natural coconut. You can take it almost anywhere but we suggest keeping one in a familiar place at home, maybe where you keep your keys.

Chill (Stress Reducer and Relaxation) Essential Oil Roll On, Pre-Diluted 10ml (1/3 fl oz), $9.95-$12.95; at Amazon

2. Acupressure Mat

Image via Amazon

Ok, get admit that stepping on a spiky mat doesn't sound super relaxing at first glance. But trust, when you do try it out, you won't look back. Acupressure has been used for thousands of years and there's growing scientific evidence to support its use for a number of health benefits. The one that seems most certain: stress relief. And this mat is incredibly versatile, you can stand on it, lay down and even rest your head on the accompanying acupressure pillow for neck relief. It just 5-10 minutes you'll be transported to a very different state of mind. It works great both for decompressing after a long day or for getting energized and centered before you head out into the world.

ProsourceFit Acupressure Mat and Pillow Set for Back/Neck Pain Relief and Muscle Relaxation, $19.99; at Amazon

3. Scalp Massager

Good luck spending more than a few seconds with this one and not turning into a puddle of chill. At just over $10 and with a near five star rating on Amazon, it's one of the cheapest and most-effective immediate forms of physical and mental relaxation. You can use it on yourself or coax a lucky partner into taking turns. Seriously, this will make you understand how a very good dog or cat feels when getting a loving scratch from their human friends. It's amazing and makes for a perfect stocking stuffer or holiday party gift as well.

Scalp Massager,Handheld Claw Head Massager for Deep Relaxation & Stress Reduction in The Office Home SPA. Dark Blue and Green(2-Pack), $10.99; at Amazon

4. Essential Oil Diffuser

This is a must-have for any stress free home. You can choose between a nearly endless variety of scents depending on what effect you're aiming for. Peppermint is our personal favorite as it helps clean the air while creating a relaxing and yet energized atmosphere. Lavender is great for pure relaxation and other popular scents include orange, cedar and vanilla. They're also a handy tool if you have pets, as the peppermint scent helps to mask pet odors and is non-toxic. The typical diffuser lasts 5-10 hours and only requires a few drops of oil, along with around a half cup of water. Most diffusers also have a lighting system, which can enhance the relaxing vibe and also serve as a nightlight if you have them in a child's bedroom or just need a little extra illumination while you sleep. If you prefer less light, you can turn that option off or go with a model that has a chill faux wood grain.

URPOWER 2nd Version Essential Oil Diffuser Aroma Essential Oil Cool Mist Humidifier with Adjustable Mist Mode,Waterless Auto Shut-Off and 7 Color LED Lights Changing for Home, $16.99; at Amazon

5. Portable Back Massager

OK, this is truly a must-have. You've probably seen countless different massage tools. Heck, you may have even bought one or two already. And let's guess: you probably never use it, right? How many of us are realistically going to take the time to run a hand-held massage wand across our back and shoulders? Not many. But there's something almost irresistible about having a personal massage at our disposal. And this thing works! So well! You literally just rest it on your shoulders and go. You can enjoy it sitting down, laying down, or while walking around making dinner or talking on the phone. It has adjustable options for heat, reverse direction, adjustable intensity and timed shut off so you can just relax and let its "hands" go to work. The portable factor is also a cool addition for the tech-savvy member of your household. Seriously, you can't go wrong with this one.

Back Massager, Shiatsu Back Neck Massager with Heat, Electric Shoulder Massager, Kneading Massage Pillow for Neck, Back, Shoulder, Foot, Leg, Muscle Pain Relief, Home,Office,Car Use, $49.99; at Amazon

6. Meditation Cushion

Seat Of Your Soul 2019 Meditation Cushion - Comfortable, Supportive & Durable Organic Cotton & Adjustable Buckwheat Filling | 7 Colors Crescent, Round Or Zabuton | Zafu Yoga Pillow, $32.99; at Amazon

7. Memory Foam Slippers

Oh heck yes. Slip these babies on and you'll never want to take them off. In some countries and cultures like South Korea it is considered proper to remove one's shoes and walk around in similar house slippers. And we couldn't agree more. Slippers no longer are reserved for nighttime or winter holidays. It's impossible to not move around with a calm grace when wearing these. With more than 5,000 five star reviews on Amazon, this has become one of the most popular slippers in the world. They are machine washable, come in a variety of colors and are very durable in case you need to run outside to meet your friendly Postmates courier. Or, maybe that's just us. Either way, these are a must-have for every member of your stress free household. And at around $20, they are an absolute bargain.

RockDove Men's Original Two-Tone Memory Foam Slipper, $19.99; on Amazon

8. Indoor Relaxation Fountain

The sound of gently running water is a universally relaxing sensation. Many experts have speculated that the sound of running water is deeply embedded in our DNA. Whatever the reason, it works and that's enough for us. However, not even has the luxury of living near a calming brook or within earshot of the ocean's cascading waves. Thankfully, there is an affordable solution. This small, indoor waterfall is just over $20 and is worth every penny. Visually, it conveys an immediate sense of peace and calm and is very stylish. The three-tiered fountain is controlled with a simple on/off switch, meaning you can run it through the day (or night) and turn it off when you leave for work or a social event. It's small enough that it makes a great gift for the holidays or a pick-me-up present for anyone who has too much stress in their lives.

HoMedics Silver Springs Indoor Relaxation Fountain, Illuminated Waterfall, Automatic Pump

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