Treat the body and mind
Gift certificates for services such as massages, acupuncture treatments, facials and aromatherapy appointments are a healthy alternative to spiritless presents. Your recipients are much more likely to appreciate, not to mention use, a gift that benefits their overall health, relieves stress and contributes to their inner and outer beauty than they are that sweater or gadget.

Similarly, the gift of an experience tends to have greater durability, for both mind and body, than that of a product. Cooking classes advocate healthy, fresh eating and less reliance on heavily processed foods. Yoga and Pilates classes are a great way to encourage a fit and active lifestyle for those who may be unable (or unwilling) to purchase such instruction for themselves. Additionally, dance classes are becoming more popular among those who seek a more non-traditional and lively workout. When it comes time to consider the artists in your life, writing, painting, photography, acting and knitting classes are examples of conscious and creative gifts that stimulate and inspire talent.

For those on your list with children, many local businesses and venues such as zoos and aquariums, museums, theaters, botanical gardens and cultural centers offer memberships, day passes or gift certificates. A gift the family can use and enjoy together goes a long way toward promoting unity, with the added benefit of creating lasting memories.

Treat the soul
Next, consider putting those you don't know first on your list this year. Many local and national social service agencies keep "wish lists" readily available for needy families or children without families. Items on these lists typically include food, personal care items, or basic household necessities. They cost very little, but are much-needed staples for those less fortunate. For children in foster care who await permanent families, your anonymous gift could be the only one they receive this season. Contact your state's department of children and family services to learn more about how you can make a direct impact on those in your community.

If you're an animal lover, Best Friends Animal Society is dedicated to reducing the number of abandoned and euthanized animals. In addition to operating a sanctuary that serves as home to some 2,000 rescued animals, Best Friends offers workshops to educate communities about responsible pet ownership, initiates spay/neuter programs and leads animal rescue efforts for areas hit by natural disasters, including those during Hurricane Katrina.

International humanitarianism can also inform your giving during the holiday season. Nonprofit organizations such as Heifer International are dedicated to providing sustainable resources such as livestock and education in agriculture to many of the poorest countries in the world. Hearts In Motion , a nonprofit charity whose mission is to "provide care and medical treatment for children, families and communities," serves countries in Central America by addressing poor nutrition and prenatal care. The organization also provides free surgeries for children born with birth defects and hosts medical and dental clinics in villages without such resources.

Make a conscious choice to give differently this year, whether your gift is a service, experience or donation to a worthy cause. The health advantages, fond memories and social impact you can make with such gifts will have a longer lifespan than any present you could wrap.