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.
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.
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?
Fireworks can be a thrilling spectacle for us, but for our pets, they can be a source of fear and anxiety. As we celebrate holidays and special occasions with fireworks, it's important to take steps to protect our furry friends from the loud, startling noises. Here are some tips to keep your pets calm and safe during fireworks displays.
We are surrounded by toxins hidden in our soaps, shampoos, toothpaste, sunscreen, household cleaners, lotions, and even our makeup. In fact, women are exposed to over 100 chemicals a day. These chemicals can affect the hormones and fertility of both women and men and can even be passed on to your child during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
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As parents, we constantly strive to provide the best nutrition for our children's overall development, and their brain health is no exception. The foods we choose for our kids can significantly impact their cognitive abilities, memory retention, and focus. While there are various dietary choices available, adopting an animal-based diet can offer numerous powerful foods that support optimal brain health in growing children.
