Even though it’s after Christmas, this might be a good present to start now for next year! Now, I know what you’re thinking, “A year long gift?!” But trust me, it’s going to be something so satisfying and give so much gratitude to your friends and family you won’t even think about it after the first day. Thanks Stephanie for sending over a simple, mindful blog post with a present ides for next holiday season!

Hello new friends! I’m Stephanie Conroy – I write for the Travelling Peach, as well as my own blog, Stephslife.net  I am a mom of 4, 2 are special needs.  I am @stephie_lark on Instagram and Twitter, and my FB Page.

It  is that time of year again, the time we think of gifts and family, but it is also still time to practice gratitude. The thing about gratitude is when you are practicing it and really in that moment, no negative thoughts or emotions can come into this state of mind. The key is learning to practice it regularly, to make it a habit.

A great way to do this is to keep a gratitude journal. This can be something you start or end your day with, but it can also be something you do when you feel stressed. It can be like meditation, and take you out of that negative state of mind.

A gratitude journal also does not have to be something you do for just yourself. A few years ago, I bought journals for the people in my life and every day I wrote what about them made me feel so grateful. This is a gift that only really costs time. and love.

Gratitude and mindfulness both really can do so much to improve our lives, and sharing that can help improve the lives of others. It can help keep you grounded and happy with yourself, as well as the people in your life, and take the focus off of material objects. If you have a tendency to feel stressed during the holiday season, it can also assist you in that area of your life.

The best part of the idea is there is always something to be grateful for, so, in that abundance, there is also the ability to find an abundance in happiness as well.