5 Best Gifts to Bring Back from St. John

You know how it goes… you count down the days until vacation, only to get to paradise and immediately start dreading re-entry into ordinary life. Next time, do yourself a favor and bring back more than just memories.

We could all learn a few things by embracing the island lifestyle. Along with a few tangible souvenirs, here are some of the best gifts you can give yourself:

1. Limin’: You shouldn’t have to travel across an ocean to chill out. Prop your feet up and read a good book. Sit on the porch and watch the world go by. Limin’ is a state of mind, no matter where you are.

2. Manners: It’s customary to greet every person with a Good Morning, Good Afternoon or Good Day on St. John before entering into further conversation. Try recognizing someone’s presence before demanding service and watch the kindness trickle down.

3. Energy: No, you don’t have to hike 10 miles through a tropical forest, even light to moderate activity promotes energy and does the body good. The next time you’re looking for the remote control, reach for your walking shoes instead.

4. Balance: Your laptop and cell phone can wait. Schedule time each day to unplug from the digital world and look up. Replace tech time with a focus on the present moment. The people in your life deserve your undivided attention.

5. Minimalism: You don’t need much to live on an island. You may be surprised to know that you don’t need much anywhere. Free yourself from consumerism by donating, recycling and removing unnecessary possessions.

Regardless of your latitude, it’s time to change your attitude!