The way I like to see the holidays is as a few major days – Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, and the New Year, which is less than a week of the end of your year. One approach to the holidays is to enjoy that time with your family and friends, worry less, and make memories. Know that a few special occasions is a part of life and will not sabotage your progress. What matters most is your ability to bounce back and return to your healthy habits. Understanding that those few days of less-than-optimal eating won’t undo your hard work helps alleviate unnecessary guilt and instead of fixating on the short-term setbacks, focus on the overall trajectory of your wellness journey.
What gets tough about the holidays though is all the parties at work, get-togethers with friends, and extra time spent with family outside of the actual day of celebration. This is where it gets difficult for most and what matters most during the rest of the winter weeks is portion control, mindful eating, grace, and resilience. Acknowledging that you have the power to regain control and make mindful choices is so helpful. Use these moments as opportunities to learn more about your relationship with food and develop strategies for balance and sustainability.
Thanksgiving, in particular, tends to be a day of indulgence, but it doesn’t have to derail you from your wellness journey if you choose to use a mindful approach to your eating habits. Maybe you don’t like the post-stuffing bloat, or the grogginess from turkey overload, or being couch-locked after too many slices of pecan pie. You can enjoy the day with a more nourishing approach:
- Eat breakfast and have a lunch or snack if you’re not having dinner until later in the day. It’s better to not be ravenously hungry and overeat. You can always put some aside as leftovers. Skipping meals or denying yourself food when hungry can set you up to binge-eat and feel overly stuffed.
- Listen to your body and the signals it is giving you. Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Rather than piling your plate high with big helpings of every dish, start with smaller portions. Give your body the chance to signal when it is satisfied, allowing you to enjoy a variety of flavors without overindulging.
- Savor each bite, seating mindfully involves more than just chewing and swallowing. Engage your senses by savoring the textures and flavors of each bite of each dish. Slow down, put your fork down in-between bites, have conversation with others around you, appreciate the effort that went into the meal, and relish the experience.
- Hydrate wisely amidst the festivities. Don’t forget the importance of staying hydrated. Opt for waterer herbal teas to accompany your meal. This not only aids in digestion, but helps you recognize true hunger and fullness, preventing overeating as well.
- Prioritize nutrient-rich choices. While Thanksgiving often brings an array of tempting treats, balance your plate with as many nutrient-dense options as possible. Load up on the vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to ensure you’re providing your body with the essential nutrients it needs and craves.
- Give yourself grace and permission to enjoy your favorite holiday treats. It is one day, and a mindful indulgence can be part of a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Focus on quality over quantity, savoring those special dishes without the guilt.
- Stay active. Incorporate physical activity into your holiday routine. Whether it’s a family walk after the meal era fund outdoor activity, staying active contributes to your overall well-being and helps balance the indulgences of the day.
Remember, the journey to better health is a marathon, not a sprint. By approaching Thanksgiving and the holidays with mindfulness and balance, you can enjoy the festivities without compromising your health and wellness goals. If you find yourself enjoying a few extra treats during those special occasions, embrace the experience without guilt. The next day is a new opportunity to nourish your body with wholesome food and engage in activities that support your well-being.
Fill the festive season with the aroma of delicious holiday meals. Savor the flavors, cherish the company, and celebrate the joy of the season in a way that both nourishes your body and your soul.
Written by Kayla Allen.