The holidays are a time to focus on the most important aspects of life. We take time out to be with family, share gifts, and give to those less fortunate. Whether intentional or not, feelings of gratitude are often woven throughout these annual traditions, and can impact our mental health in a positive way.

It’s a time of year when many people feel the stress of overloaded schedules, competing priorities, and the weight of family expectations. One way to manage through these challenging times is to choose and practice gratitude. We know that gratitude helps us appreciate life, improve our health, build strong relationships and handle adversity. In fact, research shows having an attitude of gratitude is consistently associated with greater happiness.

HOW TO PRACTICE GRATITUDE THIS HOLIDAY SEASON [5 WAYS]

There are so many ways to experience and teach gratitude this holiday season. If you’re in need of ideas on how to practice gratitude this holiday season, the following activities could be right for you. Practice gratitude by:

Establish a workout routine that is consistent and healthy
Be open with children about how the holiday season as an important time to focus on destressing
Reconnect with old friends, family, and loved ones to celebrate the holidays together
Begin a 14-day gratitude journal to keep track of your growth and encourage others to participate as well
Donate to a family in need or to a local food shelter

There is something in the Boutique in every nook and cranny. Seriously, and we are grateful! I came in today after being off for 3 days and it will take me all day to acquaint myself with all the new merchandise. From Christmas decor to slippers and scarves and flannels and coats and oh my, I am out of breath. We have so much merchandise, so shop early for the holidays if you so desire. You will be happy you did, as our customers are already gift shopping for themselves and others. Tis’ the Season!

What’s new at Meadow Boutique this week?

Our favorite labels like STACCATO, DOUBLE ZERO, LOVE TREE, PAPER CRANE, DAVI & DANI, J.NNA, HYFVE, GILLI, & 2 HEARTS have graced our racks this week with pieces you will want to try! See for yourself below. Great colors, styles and textures are what Meadow Boutique is about. There is something for everyone and the fashion just keeps coming every week.

I don’t know about you, but I am excited for the end of this year and all the fun we will have during the holiday season. I am not going to stress about a thing. I am going to practice gratitude and not sweat the small stuff. Winter in Seattle can be a bit difficult. It rains for months on end and it get's dark at 4:30 when the time changes. This is hard for me. I crave sunlight and blue skies, which is right around the corner in my full fledged retirement. That’s a whole other story. Until then, I am going to focus on your smiling faces and kindness. I am going to talk with you about your family and kids and trips. I am going to help you find the best gifts for you and your loved ones. I am going to be present and kind and wonderful to all of you. I know all of us share this same sentiment at Meadow Boutique. We love our customers to the moon and back. That’s a fact! xoxoxoxo

“Blessed is the season which engages the whole world in a conspiracy of love.” – Hamilton Wright Mabie