Thanksgiving is a time to pause, gather, and give thanks — not just for the food on our plates, but for the health and connections that sustain us all year long. While the holiday often centers around indulgence, it’s also the perfect opportunity to practice mindful living and gratitude — two habits that truly support long-term wellness.
Gratitude: The Heart’s Medicine
Research shows that gratitude does more than lift our mood — it benefits our health, too. Studies link regular gratitude practices to lower blood pressure, better sleep, and improved immunity.
Try taking a few quiet moments this Thanksgiving to reflect on what’s going well, or to express appreciation to someone who has supported you. Gratitude changes how we experience our day — and our health.
Healthy Ways to Enjoy the Holiday
You don’t need to skip your favorite dishes to stay well. Instead, focus on balance and enjoyment:
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Start with a light breakfast to avoid overeating later.
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Fill half your plate with veggies before adding heavier sides.
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Stay hydrated — aim for one glass of water between each festive drink.
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Take a post-meal walk or join in a family game to aid digestion and boost energy.
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Get good rest after the celebration — your body restores best when you slow down.
Mindful Celebration
The holidays can be joyful, but they can also be stressful. If you’re feeling stretched thin, give yourself permission to slow down. Wellness isn’t about perfection — it’s about presence. The simple act of breathing deeply, enjoying food slowly, and appreciating good company can restore calm and connection.
In the Spirit of Thanksgiving
This season, may you find joy in small moments — a shared meal, laughter, a quiet walk, or a good night’s rest. Gratitude is the foundation of true wellness, and every day offers a chance to practice it.
As the year winds down, it’s a great time for reflection and renewal. Schedule your year-end wellness visit with Doctor Kre to step into the new season balanced, healthy, and grateful.
Dr. Kre Johnson is a Board Certified Family Medicine Physician and the sole owner of Brownstone Healthcare and Aesthetics. She is the Medical Director of the City of Birmingham’s Employee Health Clinic-Brownstone BWell Birmingham. She is the Event Producer of Wifeology and the founder of Three Twenty Girls, Inc. She loves God, traveling, and all things Southern!!
Brownstone BWell: Brownstone Healthcare has partnered with the City of Birmingham to offer primary care services to the employees of the City of Birmingham for $0 copayment. This partnership is for preventative services & screenings and sick visits. We partner with your current primary care physician and our goal is to keep you out of the ER and urgent care. We do not share your information with the City of Birmingham. We uphold HIPPA and professional standards. You can visit us at our downtown location 1700 5th Ave N Birmingham, AL 35203 or Trussville: 4643 Camp Coleman Road #117 Trussville, AL 35173 205-202-5650 call for your appointment today.
