CHECK IT OUT:Books to help you find some holiday happiness

The Holiday Season has officially begun. The New Year is right around the corner. Everyone is busy, busy, busy. And wishes for peace, joy and happiness are a constant refrain. It may be time to reset your priorities and pace yourself for the rest of December. Quiet time spent reading and reflecting creates space to meditate on your pursuit of happiness and the meaningful relationships in your life. Over 2,000 years ago, the Greeks thought happiness a civic virtue. Take a moment to rediscover that ancient tradition and the modern source of your inspiration.

“Secrets of Happiness: Three Thousand Years of Searching for the Good Life,” by Richard Schoch. Examining the ancient Greek definition of the good life, the Meditations of Rome’s Marcus Aurelius and the Buddha’s Four Noble Truths, British historian Schoch leads us on a journey through history on the philosophical and religious traditions of happiness.

“A Hand to Guide Me,” by Denzel Washington. The Oscar Award-winning actor introduces the reader to the importance of everyday relationships and mentors who shaped his life and introduces the life-changing stories of many personalities, such as Alex Rodriguez, Bonnie Raitt, Bill Clinton, Whoopi Goldberg and others.

“Eckhart Tolle’s Findhorn Retreat: Stillness Amidst the World,” by Eckhart Tolle. Written by the author of “The Power of Now,” this is an introduction to the nondenominational spiritual master’s concepts of stillness, the pursuit of enlightenment and the human compulsions that shape our experiences.

“Lessons in Becoming Myself,” by Ellen Burstyn. Read an inspirational account by the Oscar and Tony Award-winning actress detailing her search for professional fulfillment and meaningful personal relationships.

“Why Buffalo Dance: Animal and Wilderness Meditations Through the Seasons,” by Susan Chernak McElroy. Explore a collection of seasonal meditations and inspirational stories from nature. Learn how animals can exhibit valuable lessons about subjects such as emptiness, altruism and regeneration.

“The New World of Self-Healing: Awakening the Chakras and Rejuvenating Your Energy Field,” by Bente Hansen. The book is accompanied by a CD featuring exercises and meditations, and the author uses a holistic approach to focus on physical, mental, emotional and spiritual wellness through the exploration of positive belief patterns for inner peace and beauty. But what if you are already experiencing great happiness, thank you very much. This book is for you!

“Don’t Get Scrooged: How to Thrive in a World Full of Obnoxious, Incompetent, Arrogant, and Downright Mean-Spirited People,” by Richard Carlson. The “Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff … And It’s All Small Stuff,” author details 60 ways to deal with the stressful elements and dysfunctional people you encounter during the holiday season.