For many of us, there is little chance the holiday season will help wind down all this 2019-induced anxiety, and while self-care is essential, a better, scientifically proven way to soothe those nerves is by practicing compassion. To boost your mood and help others along the way, this year’s gifts should be all about racking up brownie points for the “Nice List” – that, and devouring all the books you can get your hands on. From barbecue to ramen, senior food delivery to shelter pet care, it’s definitely best to approach gift-giving with a food-first attitude.

This article appears in Gift Guide 2019.

A note to readers: Bold and uncensored, The Austin Chronicle has been Austin’s independent news source for over 40 years, expressing the community’s political and environmental concerns and supporting its active cultural scene. Now more than ever, we need your support to continue supplying Austin with independent, free press. If real news is important to you, please consider making a donation of $5, $10 or whatever you can afford, to help keep our journalism on stands.

SUPPORT US