Our family has done a little soul searching this year. Dr. April and I have really been thinking about the object of giving to each other and our families. Is it to participate in the fun? Give to receive? Get in the holiday spirit? What we found is that it's all about expressing our joy, love, and gratitude for those we cherish in our lives. If we approach this year with a focus on what's in our hearts and not in our stockings, the "reason for the season" takes on a powerful meaning.
How can this help us become healthier? Feelings of love, gratitude, and joy have shown to improve functions of many organs, most notably the heart. It creates synchronicity in the tissues. This is when all the various parts of the body work together fluidly and easily coordinating their actions and producing health in the process. We also get a healthy release of feel-good hormones, much like with exercise. That's why it feels good to give!
As you share your joy this year through gifts, parties, or whatever your method of choice, keep in mind the celebration of love you're sharing with others. You will brighten someone else's day while bringing health, peace, and joy to yours.
Dr. K