Clean And Green
It’s hard to go wrong with a beautifully scented bath product, especially a 100 per cent natural one like Nana Essence Body Wash. Russian-born Nana Korolev was a competitive swimmer when she started experimenting with organic ingredients for treating her chlorine-damaged hair. Her Ontario-based company now focuses on a simple line of products free of parabens and harsh preservatives, like this all-over cleanser made with organically grown rosemary or spearmint. $12.99 at www.nanaessence.com (also available at 26 stores in Toronto — check the website for list).
Dream Weave
Of course, synthetic linens are an oxymoron, but did you know that most 100 per cent cotton sheets are treated with formaldehyde to keep them from wrinkling? Perfect for the sensitive sleeper, Organic Cotton Sheets are free of major toxins and chemical treatments. With a 280-thread count, they feel as luxurious as they are virtuous, and you don’t have to settle for boring beige since they’re available in a range of eco-dyed colours. $39.99-$209.99 at Grassroots Environmental Products, 408 Bloor W., 416-944-1993 or 372 Danforth, 416-466-2841; www.grassrootsstore.com).
Black Lightning
If you want to slip something stimulating into your sugar’s stocking, why not treat them to some antioxidants at the same time? Endangered Species Extreme Dark Chocolate is high in cocoa content — 88 per cent, well over the recommended 70 — and has a clean, filler-free taste. Plus, 10 per cent of net profits are donated to protect animals at risk, like the sexy jaguar pictured on the front. $3.29 at newly opened organic and fair-trade shop Panacea, 588 Bloor W., 647-350-3269, www.panaceaecoshop.com. (If you really want to get your sweetheart going, pick up a bag of organic, fair-trade coffee while you’re there.)
Choice Treatment
Great for the kind of person who likes to shop around, a WaySpa Gift Certificate is valid at thousands of spas worldwide, with over 100 to choose from in the Toronto area alone. Available at any price point, the gift certificates can be used toward a one-hour shiatsu treatment or a resort retreat, and they don’t expire, a nice feature for those who procrastinate even when it comes to pleasure. Take advantage of their holiday special by snagging a $50 gift certificate for $39.99 by booking online at www.wayspa.com/gift-certificates/?_dc+50_39.