My Favourite Things This Year: A Pre-Christmas Roundup

I’m not affiliated with any of these brands—just sharing what I love! As the holidays approach, I’ve been reflecting on the little things that brought joy, comfort, and wellness this year. From nourishing pantry staples to soft, cozy clothing, and even Luna’s top picks, these are a few of our favourite things!

1. Gevity Bone Broth Body Glue
Gut health meets gourmet versatility with Gevity’s Bone Broth Body Glue. These little jars pack a punch of flavour and functionality and so good for your gut! Whether stirred into a simple broth, used to enrich a marinade, or added to your favourite dish, they’re a kitchen essential. My personal picks? Populate and Curry. Perfect for cozying up with a warm mug of broth or elevating your meals. You can find them here at Health Post.

Little Tip: I transfer mine into a freezer-safe glass container. This way, I can scoop out just what I need, when I need it, and enjoy them for months instead of weeks!


2. Mitchell's Bone Broth Protein Powder
For those on the go or looking for a protein-packed addition to their wellness routine, Mitchell's Bone Broth Protein Powder is my go-to. Their new Sport Range is a game changer, incorporating Lion’s Mane and Cordyceps mushrooms to support focus, performance, and recovery. Bonus points for being locally made right here in New Zealand! Explore the range here.

Little Tip: These protein powders are an investment, so I make them go further by halving the serving size. By adding nutrient-rich extras like nuts, seeds, and A2 Greek yogurt to my smoothies, I can still reach my 25-30g protein target per meal while making each bag last twice as long.


3. Puresport Electrolytes
Finding an electrolyte drink that isn’t packed with sugar or artificial sweeteners can feel like a quest, but Puresport has nailed it. Made in New Zealand and loaded with essential minerals for hydration and recovery. The Raspberry Salt flavour is my favourite and I mix it with sparkling water for an extra refreshing boost. Hydration, minus the guilt. Explore their range at Puresport.


4. Varley Activewear and Everyday Essentials
When it comes to style-meets-comfort, Varley has stolen my heart. Their DoubleSoft fabric feels like a dream—a true second skin—and their pieces transition seamlessly from yoga class to looking smart when you step out the front door! From cozy knitwear to versatile activewear, they’ve nailed the art of a wearable wardrobe. If you haven’t tried them yet, check them out here. I personally always wait for a sale and while you may have missed Black Friday—Boxing Day is quickly approaching and well, I admit I have a wish list!


5. Dore and Rose Sleep Mask
Sleep is the cornerstone of wellbeing, and sleeping with a silk mask has revolutionised my sleep! The Dore and Rose Sleep Mask is made from hypoallergenic mulberry silk, and blocks 100% of light while being gentle on your skin. It’s not just functional; it’s luxurious. Adding this to my nightly routine has been a small but mighty upgrade. While it’s a little indulgent, I recommend waiting for a sale or adding it to your wish list for Santa! Dore and Rose.


6. My Favourite Book of the Year: The Resilience Toolkit by Dr. Alia Bojilova
This book holds a special place in my heart, not just because it’s beautifully written, but because the author, Alia, is a dear friend who has been an incredible guide in my own journey of self-discovery. Her wisdom, grounded in profound life experiences, shines through every page of The Resilience Toolkit. It’s a powerful blend of inspiration, insight, and actionable advice that left me feeling both comforted and empowered.

If audiobooks are your style, I can’t recommend the audio version enough—Alia’s voice is a wonderful guide. You can find it on Audible. This book is a must-read (or listen) for anyone seeking tools to navigate life’s challenges with strength and grace.


7. Favourite Podcast: Huberman Lab
Okay, I’ll admit it—this one wasn’t even a close contest. Huberman Lab is hands-down my podcast of the year. If you’ve already tuned in, you’ll know why. If not, let me introduce you to Andrew Huberman, PhD, a Stanford neuroscientist.

The Huberman Lab covers a wide range of topics, from sleep and stress to nutrition and brain health. Huberman’s thoughtful, well-spoken delivery and evidence-based insights keep me coming back for more. Yes, the episodes are long, but they’re perfect for those long walks when you’re ticking off your 10,000 steps (or more!).

Whether you’re curious about optimising your wellness, building new habits, or simply diving deeper into how the human brain works, this podcast is a treasure trove of knowledge. You’ll thank me later!


Luna’s Favourites: Fur-Baby Approved Picks

Let’s not forget the fur-babies this holiday season! Luna has been hard at work curating her own list of must-haves. Here’s what she’s loving this year:

8. Lambwolf Collective Enrichment Toys
Luna gives these her wholehearted paw of approval, and I couldn’t agree more! Lambwolf Collective designs toys that are truly beautiful and functional—think minimalistic, beautiful objects that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to your pet’s playtime.

As a designer, I appreciate their aesthetic (finally, toys I don’t mind leaving out!), and Luna loves how engaging they are, because you can hide treats in them. Bonus? These toys are made to last—we haven’t had one bite the dust yet! Keep an eye out for their sales; it’s the perfect time to stock up. Luna’s favourites would have to be the pea-pop, momo, monti, guu and the baguette! Check them out at Lambwolf Collective.


9. Thirsty Dog Bottle
Luna’s next favourite is an absolute summer essential! The Thirsty Dog Bottle is a brilliantly designed water bottle created by a Wellington-based young entrepreneur on a mission to make hydrating our dogs on-the-go as easy (and stylish) as possible.

Luna drinks from this with such enthusiasm that I’m convinced there’s magic involved! Maybe it’s the clever design, or maybe it’s just the joy of me holding it for her—but either way, it’s a winner. Perfect for hot summer walks. Check it out at Thirsty Dog Bottle.


10. Luna’s Favourite Treat: Chuur Premium Quality Himalayan Dog Chews
When it comes to treats, Luna is obsessed with Chuur Himalayan Dog Chews. These healthy, natural chews are made from a traditional recipe using yak milk, cow milk, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. They’re free from artificial nasties, gluten-free, and easy to digest.

The best part? These treats are versatile! Once your pup has chewed them down to the end, pop the leftover piece in the microwave for about 40 seconds, and voilà—a puffed yak treat that’s crunchy and delicious. Luna goes wild for them, and I love that they’re made right here in New Zealand. Grab them at Chuur.

Luna’s picks are proof that our fur-babies deserve the best. Treats, hydration, and playtime? Covered. 🐾


11. My Book: Your Healthiest You
This one simply had to make the list. Writing and designing Your Healthiest You was a true labour of love, taking three years to bring to life. Holding it in my hands fills me with excitement for completing something I have poured my heart into—but more than that, it’s an accumulation of little moments where I decided to believe in myself. This book is my heartfelt offering, filled with simple, sustainable tools designed to inspire meaningful change in the lives of others.

A Little Extra Gift for the Season:
If you’ve made it this far through our favourites, here’s a small gift from us to you. Purchase Your Healthiest You between now and Christmas, and you’ll receive an exclusive 50% off your first week with MyFood Bag. Plus, if you nominate a friend in the notes at checkout, they’ll go into the draw to win a copy of the book—so they can start their 2025 with wellbeing in focus too. A little joy to share this season!

Winner will be drawn on December 22nd and I will contact you to let you know!

I hope you’ve enjoyed exploring our list of favourites and maybe even feel inspired to try a few for yourself in the year ahead! Happy Holidays! xo Kate and Luna


Next
Next

Behind the name ‘Your Healthiest You’