Celebrate Thanksgiving by Celebrating the Simplicity of Life

Most of us maintain a pretty hectic lifestyle most of the year, from long hours at work to driving kids to soccer practice and dance class to taking care of the house.

If there was ever a time to sit back and appreciate all that we have, it’s Thanksgiving. I’m not just talking about material things. I’m talking about our faith, family and health. These are the things that really make us rich in ways far better than material possessions.

And if we’re going to take the time to truly appreciate what we have, can we at least make the commitment to unplug for the day, if not the entire weekend? That doesn’t mean you have to put down your smartphone. I love taking and sharing photos of my kids as much as the next person. But it does mean taking a break from work and anything else that causes us stress so we can enjoy the simplicity of life.

Relax. Laugh with family. Do fun things together before and after your meal.

Instead of watching football on TV, go outside if weather permits. Let the kids run around, and run around with them. Play games. Go for a walk and say hello to the neighbors. That’s what our grandparents did!

After dinner, instead of plopping yourself on the couch, move the couch to the side of the room and create a dance floor. There’s no rule that says families are only allowed to dance together at weddings. Think of the memories that can be created by having children dance with parents and grandparents. These are the simple things in life that mean so much.

Simplicity extends to the dinner table, too. Go ahead and eat your turkey, stuffing, casseroles and sweet potatoes. Go ahead and have slice of pie for dessert. It’s Thanksgiving. Just remember to put some dark green leafy vegetables on the dinner table. Put a basket of fresh fruit on the dessert table. Drink plenty of water.

And keep in mind that any dish served on Thanksgiving – or any other day of the year for that matter – can be made without preservatives, artificial sweeteners or processed meat. Actually, any dish made with natural, organic ingredients – the simple foods that God gave us – will most likely taste better and cost less than all of the manufactured junk that’s advertised all over the place.

Again, that’s how our grandparents prepared a Thanksgiving feast. We should do the same! Thanksgiving is all about enjoying the simplicity of life. That simplicity is what helps us feel better, function better and live longer.

From my family and the Proodian Healthcare family, I wish all of you good health and a blessed, relaxing Thanksgiving.