The holiday season doesn’t have to mean overconsumption, clutter, or stress. With a few thoughtful choices, you can give gifts that are meaningful, safe, and better for the planet.
We spoke with Sarah, a former health advisor, mom of four, and founder of Low Toxin Rabbit, a platform dedicated to simplifying low-tox living. After healing her own Graves’ disease through lifestyle changes and detoxification, Sarah now shares research-backed tips and trusted product recommendations to help families build healthier, safer homes without overwhelm.
In this interview, she shares practical tips for giving gifts that are intentional, sustainable, and mindful; perfect for making this holiday season feel a little calmer and a lot more meaningful.
To start, can you share a bit about your journey into low-tox living and what inspired you to build Low Toxin Rabbit?
My journey really began with my own health crisis. In my twenties, I was in terrible health and struggling with Graves’ disease. I was constantly tired, frequently sick, and on thyroid medication as well as beta-blockers to manage my blood pressure. I wanted to have children one day, but I worried whether it would even be possible without major intervention and medication.
I’d tried numerous diets and doctor-prescribed medications that never solved the issues and often created new ones. Eventually, a specialist recommended radiotherapy or removing my thyroid. I knew there had to be a better way. That’s when, after some prayer, I chose a completely new approach and began working with a holistic doctor. Their testing uncovered the root cause of my illness, and after a period of detoxing, overhauling my lifestyle, and reducing my toxin exposure, I was able to come off all my medication.
Since then, I’ve birthed four healthy babies with no interventions, and my thyroid and blood pressure have been amazing ever since. A far cry from my twenties.
I started Low Toxin Rabbit to share what we’ve learned on our journey, to help others, and hopefully prevent people from finding themselves at the bottom of the cliff with their health.
What does “sustainable gifting” mean to you, and how can people keep it simple during the holidays?
I remember one Christmas, pre-kids, my husband and I were doing some last-minute Christmas shopping, wandering around a mall late in the evening. As we looked at our list and filled shopping bags we realised a lot of our gifts were really just a gift for the sake of getting them... something. Although it can be a great way to show someone you care about them, we hated the consumerism, and knowing that our extended families would probably be doing the same thing in another mall across town. I realised I wanted to focus on intentional, sustainable choices that add value rather than clutter.
To me, sustainable gifting is about supporting the “little guy” and making choices that last. I really love buying from smaller businesses. When you buy from a small maker or seller, you're supporting a family and a dream, not just a corporation. To keep it simple, I focus on quality over quantity. You don't need a mountain of presents; one thoughtful, sustainably made item means so much more.
For someone new to low-tox habits, what are a few accessible, beginner-friendly gift ideas you love recommending?
It doesn't have to be complicated! I love recommending:
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Low-tox skincare: A beautiful tallow balm or natural face oil is luxurious and practical.
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Organic chocolate: Who doesn't love chocolate? It's a treat that feels special but is consumable (so no clutter!).
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Slippers and clothing: Look for natural fibres like wool or organic cotton. They feel better on the skin and are better for your health and the planet.
What are some of your personal go-to gifts that are thoughtful, low-tox, and practical?
For a generic "thank you" or a small gesture, I almost always go with high-quality organic chocolate. It’s universally appreciated.
For something more personal, we love making things. For years, we’ve made homemade truffle balls for our postie each Christmas. It’s a small tradition, but it connects us to the people who serve our community. Plus, it’s delicious!
Are there any common holiday gifting mistakes you see — things people think are “eco-friendly” but might not be?
Yes, "greenwashing" is huge. People often buy things branded as "low tox" or "eco" without checking the details. It’s important to read what it is made of and where it is sourced from. Just because it looks “natural” doesn't mean it's non-toxic. It pays to ask questions and if the business is not completely transparent shop elsewhere.
How can families with kids approach low-tox gifting without feeling overwhelmed?
Shop small or with businesses who care about our health and environment! Go to local markets where you can talk directly to the maker or choose sustainable online businesses where you talk to an actual person (I share many on my site and social media pages). Ask them what's in their products. It takes the guesswork out of it and connects your kids to the story behind the gift. And remember: less is more. Kids often get overwhelmed by too many toys. A few meaningful, safe items are far better than a playroom full of plastic that will break first use.
What small habits or mindset shifts can make the holidays feel more mindful and less wasteful?
Shift your focus from "volume" to "value." Instead of buying five cheap plastic toys that will break in a month, buy one smaller, better-quality product, like a wooden toy or a craft kit. My kids just love drawing supplies for instance. It reduces waste and teaches kids (and us) to value what we have.
What’s one piece of advice you’d share with someone who wants to be more intentional with their gifting this year?
Start small and be kind to yourself. You don't have to change everything overnight. Maybe just pick one category, like stocking fillers to go low-tox and choose better this year.
Bringing Low-Tox Values into Your Holiday Giving
If there’s one theme that carries through Sarah’s answers, it’s this: intentional gifting isn’t about perfection; it’s about choosing better, choosing smaller, and choosing with heart. Whether that’s supporting a local maker, choosing natural fibres, avoiding greenwashed products, or gifting something homemade, low-tox gifting is ultimately about giving with meaning.
At Q for Quinn, we share many of the same values Sarah talks about; prioritizing organic materials, transparency, and products that are gentle on skin and the planet. If you’re inspired to gift more intentionally this year, sustainable essentials like organic cotton and merino socks, cotton underwear, or small-batch, thoughtfully made items can be a beautiful place to start.
Where to Find Sarah
For more tips and a directory of trusted low-tox brands, you can visit Sarah’s site at Low Toxin Rabbit, or connect with her on Instagram at @lowtoxinrabbit and on Facebook.
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