Elizabeth Lesser, co-founder of the Omega Institute, shares a gratitude meditation that will help you feel centered and peaceful in the new year.

Attracted to the promise of inner peace, stress-reduction, happiness and better health, many people make "learn to meditate" or "start meditating again" their New Year's resolution. But most find it hard to jump in and even harder to sustain. The idea of sitting still for 10 or 20 minutes with an unruly mind can seem boring, aggravating, confusing, pointless, or even impossible. Here's a practice that can help you begin. It's shorter and a little more lively than traditional routines, but it has all the same benefits. You'll be amazed how it brings a sense of calm and optimism into your daily life. And if you like it, you can then go on to longer periods of stillness, using a variety of techniques and traditions.

Traditions are an important part of celebrating the holiday season. See what the Rev. Ed Bacon, authors and experts had to say about their traditions.

Are there certain foods you always cook with your family? Events you enjoy with your friends? Share your traditions below!

The holiday season is here and so is the stress of finding the perfect gift. Why not give the gift of soul? Here are some books and DVDs to give featuring our very own "Super Soul Sunday" guests and contributors!

• A Man Named Pearl starring Pearl Fryar
• Crazy Sexy Cancer DVD starring Kris Carr
• Crazy Sexy Cancer Tips by Kris Carr
• Crazy Sexy Cancer Survivor by Kris Carr
• The Book of Awakening by Mark Nepo
• Broken Open by Elizabeth Lesser
• Change Your Thoughts—Change Your Life by Dr. Wayne Dyer
• Eat Pray Love by Elizabeth Gilbert
  
• Emmanuel's Gift starring Emmanuel Ofosu Yeboah
• I Am directed by and starring Tom Shadyac
  
• My Stroke of Insight by Dr. Jill Bolte Taylor
• No Impact Man starring Colin Beavan and Michelle Conlin
• Quantum Wellness by Kathy Freston
• SoulPancake: Chew on Life's Big Questions by Rainn Wilson, Devon Gundry, Golriz Lucina and Shabnam Mogharabi
• Wake Up DVD starring Jonas Elrod

For many people, the holidays are a sad and stressful time of year. But Elizabeth Lesser wants to help! Try her 10 ways to reconnect with the real reason for the season.