Holidays are a great time to savor good memories and make new ones.
To thwart holiday stress and keep the focus on the glass being half full, here are some questions to contemplate on your own or, better yet, with your loved ones:
- What’s your favorite holiday story?
- What’s your most treasured family moment (and, family is what you make it)?
- Share some traditions you admire either from other families or other cultures.
- Talk about ways you like to spend time together.
- Brainstorm ideas for “quality time” over the next few months.
- And then, of course, the Thanksgiving classics: What are you grateful for, how are you thankful, what are your blessings?
Sound mushy? Well, maybe. The truth is, when we measure happiness in science, we find that people are, quite simply, healthier when they feel most fulfilled. They feel most fulfilled what they are able to bolster up key character strengths such as gratitude, curiosity, hope, love, perseverance, and persistence. Oh, and zest is a bonus too.
So, is it mushy? If you want it to be BUT it’s also good for your health!
If you’re not up for “mushy,” one other great idea for when you’re all together is to share your health history. Biological relatives can put together a health history tree so each person is aware of potential genetic risks (click here for a free resource). Beyond risks, sharing your health goals is always good to muster solid support in reaching for your dreams.
In short, wherever you are this holiday, whoever you’re with, savor the joys (and maybe slough the frustrations with a brisk walk). Age old advice, no?
From all of us at PATH… Happy Thanksgiving!
See you on the PATH Ahead!