Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on gratitude and the traditions that bring us together. In Thanksgiving Then and Now, we journey through its evolution—from George Washington’s proclamation to Abraham Lincoln’s revival during the Civil War, and the adaptations made during the Great Depression and World War II. Each era reveals the resilience and creativity of Americans, finding ways to celebrate even in times of hardship.
Alongside this historical exploration, enjoy a heartfelt poem capturing the spirit, The First Thanksgiving Day, where gratitude and hope took root in the New World. Dive into this blend of history and inspiration to enrich your holiday season and rediscover the meaning of Thanksgiving today.
Gratitude is more than just a feeling—it’s a powerful practice that can transform our lives. Inspired by the groundbreaking research of Masaru Emoto, who showed how words and thoughts can affect water molecules, we can apply the same concept to our daily lives. Gratitude has the ability to positively impact our physical and emotional well-being, improving everything from heart health to stress levels. By incorporating simple activities like thank-you notes, daily gratitude rituals, and using Gratitude Essential Oil, we can support our minds, bodies, and spirits. Whether through changing our perspective or taking a moment each day to reflect on our blessings, gratitude has the power to shape our experiences and the world around us. Join us as we explore how practicing gratitude, both individually and as a family, can lead to greater happiness, resilience, and connection, creating harmony and beauty in our lives.
November brings a season of gratitude and Thanksgiving, and while sharing thanks around the holiday table is tradition, the act of gratitude itself holds deeper benefits. Practicing gratitude doesn’t just lift our mood; it has a remarkable impact on our brains, releasing dopamine and serotonin to enhance emotional resilience and boost positivity. Research even shows that regular gratitude can reduce stress hormones, promoting better sleep, less physical pain, and an overall healthier body. Grateful people also tend to enjoy stronger relationships and show greater empathy, qualities that enhance both mental and physical health. By making gratitude a daily practice, we create a ripple effect that improves not only our own well-being but the lives of those around us. Dive into the science and start building your own habit of gratitude for a healthier, happier season ahead.
As an RN since 1975, I've observed the annual push for flu shots from October through March, raising questions about why flu cases peak during these months. Yes, colder weather brings us indoors, but could there be other factors? Consider the high-sugar, high-carb holiday diet from Halloween through Valentine’s Day. Could these food choices be weakening our immune systems? Rather than focusing only on flu vaccines, it’s worth exploring how natural lifestyle shifts—like balanced nutrition, quality sleep, stress management, and exercise—can boost immune resilience. Avoiding grains, which can spike blood sugar and inflammation, and nourishing the body with foods rich in omega-3s, zinc, selenium, and vitamins D and C can also help. Simple practices like good hygiene, moderate exercise, and immune-supporting supplements further strengthen defenses. Let’s look beyond shots and antivirals and embrace habits that truly support immunity through flu season and beyond.
Artificial food dyes, like Red 40, Yellow 5, and Yellow 6, have been linked to mood and behavioral challenges in children, such as ADHD, hyperactivity, and impulsiveness. Research shows that these dyes are made from petroleum and can act as xenoestrogens, disrupting hormone balance. Some studies suggest that around 8% of ADHD cases in children may be tied to artificial colors. Even small amounts of these dyes—like those found in common snacks and drinks—can trigger symptoms in sensitive children. A notable study from The Lancet found increased hyperactivity in kids who consumed beverages with dyes and preservatives. Despite the evidence, artificial dyes continue to be widely used in processed foods, raising concerns about their impact on developing brains and overall health.
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Have you ever stopped to think about what’s in your laundry detergent? Most people don’t, but the chemicals in conventional detergents could be affecting your health more than you realize. From hormone disruptors to potential carcinogens, many laundry products contain ingredients that can trigger allergies, irritate your skin, and even disrupt your mood. These toxins can linger in your clothes and bedding, releasing fumes with every wash. With so much focus on cleanliness, it’s easy to overlook the hidden dangers in those bottles of ‘freshness.’ Fortunately, switching to healthier laundry alternatives doesn’t have to be complicated. By opting for plant-based, unscented, or naturally scented products, you can help minimize your exposure to harmful chemicals, creating a safer environment for yourself, your family, and even your pets. Are you ready to make a change for cleaner, toxin-free living?
Recreating a cherished scent can lead to healthier innovations. By using essential oils, you gain control over the ingredients in your home’s air. Many commercial air fresheners contain toxins like phthalates, formaldehyde, and VOCs, which harm respiratory and brain health.Making your own fresheners lets you customize safe, uplifting scents and is cost-effective and eco-friendly. Simply fill a spray bottle with distilled water, add a tablespoon of witch hazel or vodka, and mix in 10-20 drops of your favorite essential oils. Enjoy joyful, toxin-free aromas for a healthier living environment!
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