Gifts That Keep on Giving

As I recently was thrown into the deep end of trying to buy a gift for a friend who also suffers from restless legs syndrome (RLS), it gave me the opportunity to spend a good few hours trawling the internet looking for some good ideas.

What I found inspired me, so I thought I would share them with you all.

Signs and sayings others with RLS understand

Luckily, I found a considerable amount of merchandise that held the RLS ribbon or comical mugs that offered some light relief with logos such as, "I have RLS and may not be able to stop myself from kicking your ass!"

We all know someone who feels like that.

Skip the scented gifts!

The dread of the "rogue smelly" that is given as a thoughtful gift has followed me ever since I was a teenager. That caring auntie who was obviously trying to drop the hint that you smell, or why else would they buy you a gift with such overpowering odours? It does not mean you have to carry on the trend.

Give the gift of relaxation

For many, Epsom salts are a tried and tested way of releasing pressure in calves. Add the recommended amount with an essential oil of your choice (lavender is good, especially if you are heading to bed afterwards, hoping for an RLS-reduced night). You can also try gently massaging your legs to help alleviate some of the creeping feelings.

If you are a glutton for punishment (or don't have a bath installed), you can try cold compresses on your legs or a hot water bottle. You could even try alternating the 2 to help lessen the RLS feelings.

Building an RLS comfort basket

There are 3 suggestions for a gift basket for RLS sufferers: Epsom salts, a couple of essential oils such as mint or lavender, some massage oils or creams all twinned with some reusable hot and cold compresses.

You could make someone the happiest person alive if you acknowledge their condition and help them tackle it in one fell swoop.

Depending on your budget, you could consider buying a weighted blanket. These can be useful for RLS suffers as they can help reduce the creeping sensation in their legs, also helping them to reduce the need to move.

Gift ideas for movement

This suggestion might seem like it's coming a little out of left field, but bear with it. Maybe invest in a Fitbit or some walking shoes for them. Exercise can help alleviate the feeling that you have energy built up in your legs (that is what my RLS feels like sometimes – it feels like my legs have got springs in them that have been wound up so tight they need releasing). Along with expelling energy by walking, it can help you sleep easier and deeper at night.

Avoid common RLS triggers

This next suggestion might require a great deal of space, but the recipient might love you forever, so it could be worth it. Purchase them a pallet full of tonic water! Some people believe the quinine contained in tonic water has an effect on RLS. Who am I to argue?

Just remember, no buying chocolates, alcohol, or their favourite Starbucks coffee! The contents might aggravate their symptoms, and then they may just spend all night kicking!