Let's Be Thankful

by Dr. Brett L. Lukert, DC

Thanksgiving season is a great time to celebrate all of our many blessings. We have so much to be thankful for, and sometimes we just need to relax, and try to appreciate what we have. Our families, our health, and our freedom are three things in particular that we should not only be thankful for, but that we should also do our best to appreciate.

Family is very precious, and the holidays allow us the opportunity to spend extra time together, away from structured work schedules. Whether it is participating in the annual family football game, or enjoying conversation and hot cocoa by the fire, it is the quality of the family time that counts. Family time, in addition to consuming an abundance of turkey dinner, wonderful side dishes, and delicious desserts throughout the day help make Thanksgiving so enjoyable. These family memories are what make the holiday homecomings so special.

Next to family, is there anything more valuable on earth than our health? Since stress is one of the major contributors to health problems, it is nice to have a holiday that gives us the opportunity to relax, unwind, and catch up on some much needed rest. From a nutrition standpoint, eating healthier foods in moderation is one guideline that we generally will give to our patients, but not on this day! How many times do we get to celebrate Thanksgiving?!? Life is short, and this is one day that is okay to indulge…just remember to exercise more the next day!

As important as our family and our health is, each would be much less significant if we did not live in the country that we do. We have the luxury of freedom because of the sacrifices that our soldiers have made for us over the years. As a result of their efforts, we have opportunities in life that most people in this world do not.

During this holiday season, enjoy the family, take time to relax, and remember to extend a sincere “thank you” to the veterans around us. Happy Thanksgiving and remember to be healthy, live healthy, and stay healthy!