Thanksgiving gets a bad rap, but this annual feast offers plenty of healthful indulgences—and we’re not talking about the food! Here’s a look at a few calorie-free benefits that may surprise you:
Thankfulness is a proven health booster
Loads of research links gratitude to a variety of health benefits. Did you know that people who frequently feel gratitude are more likely to win job promotions, make friends, feel happier and report lower levels of stress? An attitude of gratitude is also linked to lower blood pressure and fewer trips to the doctor.
Connections
We know it’s painful when Aunt Betty starts divulging her laundry list of physical ailments, but her penchant for oversharing is actually a positive thing. When families share their goings-on, however menial, they are fostering a sense of connectedness, which has been shown to boost confidence and a sense of resilience among family members.
Nap time
Myth alert: turkey will not make you sleepy. While turkey does contain tryptophan, a sleep-inducing chemical, there’s too little for it to have any real effect. Your full belly of mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing and pie is a more likely culprit. Whatever the cause, that cat nap can be seen as a power nap, helping your body to re-energize, boost your mood and sharpen your memory for the remainder of your day. Just don’t overdo it. A 20-minute snooze is all you need to reap the benefits. Any longer, and it’s hard to bounce back.
All of us at Skin Care Institute wish you a happy and healthy Thanksgiving season! To learn about our leading selection of aesthetic and wellness treatments to help you look and feel your best, please call 918.948.9639 or schedule your personal consultation today.
