The holiday season is upon us: non-stop carols piping through the shopping malls, eggnog lattes at Starbucks, parents attempting to perch squirmy kids on Santa’s knees. Christmas is fabulous – a time to gather together to love, laugh and reflect – but it’s also overwhelming, all that cooking, eating, family time, and shopping. People frequently report it’s one of the most stressful times of the year.

One stress point is trying to find the perfect gift for your nearest and dearest. Some (perhaps more intelligent souls) will bypass the consumer element this year and forego gift giving. I definitely appreciate and acknowledge this route. Yet there remains something heart stirring about giving a thoughtful gift that you know someone will truly enjoy. It’s even better when you know the gift will add to their life in a positive way.

Here’s a list for those of you who are stuck for creative gift ideas:

1. Yoga Pass (plus mat)

Do you have a friend or family member who continues to publicize that they want to “get into yoga”? Or do you know a person close to you who enjoys yoga, but finds classes a bit pricey for their budget? Help these people out. Buy them a yoga pass (or even just a few sessions) from a yoga studio near them. The yoga mat adds a fun element to the gift. Don’t think they’d be interested in yoga, find another activity: rock-climbing, skiing, pottery, etc.

2. Magazine Subscription

A magazine subscription is a superb idea for any person who has a particular passion. Every month they’ll gain more knowledge and inspiration on something they’re deeply interested in. This Christmas, I’m giving my mom, an avid gardener, a subscription to an excellent gardening magazine. And, because I live far away from her, it’s a sweet monthly reminder of how much I love her. There is literally a magazine for any interest or hobby: running, sailing, nature, travel (Just look on Amazon).

3. Meditation Program

Do you have someone in your life who is stressed out or going through a tough time? Give them the gift of meditation. Maybe they’re too shy to buy a meditation product or perhaps they don’t know anything about meditation. A gift is an excellent opportunity to introduce meditation into their lives. I’m familiar with the AmericanMonk and the Silva Life System, both excellent meditation programs. Want to upgrade the gift? Buy an iPod and put the meditation audio files onto the iPod for them. Now that is an awesome present!

4. Collection of Personal Development Books

If you’re reading this article there is a good chance you’re interested in personal development and wellness. There is also a good chance that you read books in the area of personal development. Why not give the two or three books that you have found to be the most interesting or inspiring? If this material has added to your life, there is a high probably it will strike a chord with those around you as well.

5. Gift Certificate for a Massage

Gentlemen, listen up! A gift certificate for a massage (or facial) is a great way to tell the woman in your life how much you appreciate her. Most women give and give (and give some more). Even in egalitarian marriages where both the husband and wife work, women do more cleaning, cooking and childrearing. They rarely have time to pamper themselves. So, again, a spa day is a great way to say “thank you” for everything they do.

6. A Donation

Trying to shop for the person who has everything? Christmas is the time for giving, so truly give someone the opportunity to do just this. Go to JustGive. On this website you can buy a “GiveNow” Card, a customized charity gift card, which allows the person you give it to the chance to donate the amount to any charity in their database they wish to support. They get to choose to support a project focused on any issue that interests them, whether the environment, women’s issues, poverty, etc. How cool is that?

7. Eco-friendly Home Gift Basket

“Green” and “Eco” are on everyone’s lips these days. This Christmas, help those closest to you make their most precious space – their home – more environmentally friendly and healthy. Get a basket or pail and fill it with non-toxic products for their home: hand soap, detergent, dish washing liquid, house cleaner, etc. Better for their health and better for the world! Check out SeventhGeneration for ideas.

8. A Letter

Don’t have a lot of money and want to give something straight from your heart? Write a letter (not an e-mail, a proper letter!) to each of your loved ones telling them just how much they mean to you and how much you appreciate them. Tell them exactly what you feel and exactly what they add to your life. I promise you they will never forget this gesture of kindness.

Please help to add to this list by sharing any gifts that you’ve received that have had a positive impact on your life.