Give Thanks

NOTE: We YOU Docs wrote this a few years ago and we believe it more strongly today. We wish you all a happy, healthful, thankful Thanksgiving.

If Thanksgiving weren't synonymous with gravy, butter, and other festively dressed saturated fats, it would be the healthiest holiday around – and not just because the bird itself is a great source of lean protein, or because sweet potatoes are rich in vitamins (just replace the marshmallow stuff with toasted walnuts).

Thanksgiving is about giving thanks and being with family and friends, and there's no question that both make people healthier. Turns out that if you keep a gratitude journal, you're also likely to exercise more, have fewer aches and pains, and feel more optimistic than if you ramble on about things that drive you crazy or don't matter much. Even better, 15 minutes of daily gratitude can dramatically decrease stress hormones in your body. (You'll look better, too. Here's why.)

Use the holiday to remember people who are important in your life and write them a note of gratitude. If they'll be around your holiday table, thank them in person. You'll all feel more deeply connected and even happier to be together. While you're fussing with the bird, the centerpiece, or your new whole-grain stuffing, take a minute to put the thanks in Thanksgiving. Your heart will be grateful, too.

We're grateful you've read this far. We each write three notes a night to say thank you. Try it. Let the people you love know you're grateful they're in your life.

Want to look at the world with new gratitude and appreciation? Do this.