For many people, today, Thanksgiving day, marks the beginning of the holiday season. It symbolizes tradition, soul food, rest, cooking up a storm, travel, meeting new family members, and even adventure.
It may mean throwing diets and regimens under the rug for the time being, in appreciation of the hours and days of preparation that go into making this day.
For others, it may symbolize rememberance, as people experience a first Thanksgiving without a particular loved one by their side.
And for others, still, it may be a painful holiday. It may be a reminder of events and memories that cause a stinging pain deep down inside.
Usually, I write about my passion – nutrition and food and how it relates to health. Today, in light of Thanksgiving, I want to take this day, a day that revolves around wholesome food, to talk about wholesome health.
We usually think about health as the absence of phsyical sickness. But, health is much more than that.
The World Health Organizaiton defines health as follows:
Health is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
We get our check-ups, read health blogs, and do our best to make healthy eating choices in the best interest of our physical health.
But, what are we doing to take care of our mental and social well-being?
For me, this is exactly what Thanksgiving is about. Many make long trips to share a meal together with family far away, others who cannot share it with family members take part in a big ol’ Friendsgiving.
Those for whom this tradition is foreign, or even confusing to them, may be taking part for the first time and noting that while may, indeed, be a meal of excess, it is also a meal that brings people together and offers the opportunity to express gratitude for all of the blessings brought by this year.
While many may be putting aside the best interest in their physical health today (although you don’t need to), invest time in your social and mental health, and that of others.
How?
- Show your gratitude. As the year comes to an end, take time to reflect on all of the experiences that helped you grow as a person this year. Some experiences may not have been easy, or even enjoyable, but something was to be gained from them. Also, show your gratitude to all of those who have been by your side, you taught your something, who forgave you, and, of course, those who made the turkey and pie today. Whether in person, on Facebook, or through a phonecall or text, say thank you.
- Recognize and give value to others’ struggles. Not everyone may find joy in Thanksgiving. Everyone is on a different journey. Even if you do not share the same feelings, all experiences have value. Let them know you are there for them, and take time to reflect on what you can do to help alleviate others’ suffering.
- Remember that it’s about relationships. This isn’t a regular Thursday night meal. Get to know your neighbors, lean in a little closer to grandma, and exchange traditions with your in-laws. Feel the love and appreciation exchanged on this day, and build on in.
- Be present. Rather than gulping down food and so you don’t miss a minute of the Thanksgiving football game, take enough time to share stories, thoughts, and prayers with those at the table with you. Enjoy each and every taste, spice, and smell. Take time to notice a particular shared feeling – that is what memories are made of. This Thanksgiving comes only once in a lifetime.
- Take time for R&R. In today’s society that cultivates workaholism, it’s hard to find a time where you can turn off the cellphone notifications and put work and studying on the back burner. Don’t feel guilty – instead, enjoy it fully. Learn to let go and engage in self-cafe this long weekend.
- Share. Whatever it is you have to give – food, clothing, a hug, a phonecall – being grateful also means passing it on. Recognize the physcial, mental and emotional needs of others as you heal yours; you’ll see they go hand in hand.
Wishing you all a joyful, meaningful Thanksgiving!
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What are you doing to cultivate your wholesome health this Thanksgiving? Share the love! Comment below!