As the seasons blow their breezes, the cycle of life is marked by rhythms that break the monotony and tedium of daily routines. Holidays are those clarion call moments that force one to take a deep breath and review life. Shake off the weariness and refresh body and soul.

The calendar teems with holiday occasions the world over, celebrating diverse customs and traditions. Whether a formal or religious ritual or informal celebration, holiday gifts must be custom-built for the occasion. If you are familiar with the event's background, then choosing an apt gift will not be too tough on your nerves. Picking up a few extra gifts is always be wise-you never know who you want to toast with.

Business associates exchanging holiday gifts can inject a little lightheartedness into their gifts. You must of course guard against business improprieties or negative sexual overtones in the choice of gifts. Personal care products, lingerie or jewelry are best avoided. Scan from an array of computer accessories, photo frames, tabletop decorations, that old-faithful coffee mug in multicolor, diaries and distinctive stationery.

A cross-cultural holiday gift needs to be seriously researched. Your international friend or colleague or host will not take too kindly to incongruous offerings that patronize or slight. As a holiday globetrotter, before presenting gifts to hosts, do your homework on cultural etiquette and social connotations, including the color of the gift-wrap paper. Be extremely alert if your holiday gift is for someone from Japan, the Middle East, Latin America or Asia.

For a family trip, holiday gifts must be planned systematically, with a budget and a list drawn up. Include the number of people or households being visited and family favorites. To save suitcase space, one sleek gift per family will suffice, provided it is of substance and value. Electronic gifts, home furnishings/accessories, books that range from the latest best-sellers to timeless classics or a collection of spiritual essays or lectures, talismans, gourmet chocolate, wine, personal care items, build-it-up kits, DVDs, jigsaws and board games for kids, can all spell leisure and enjoyment.

As couples, holiday gifts can be easy, as you know each other's idiosyncrasies and cravings. As friends, it gets easier-you just know how to make the good times roll. Theme parties with costumes and music can be a lavish holiday gift idea that injects the maximum enthusiasm at holiday time.

If you are staying at home for the holidays, send your cards out early. Surprise your janitor, baby sitter, neighbor, nurse or mail man. Spread the good cheer and count your blessings.