As we approach the holiday week?focused on?gratitude,?food and togetherness, anxiety can also take center stage. Travel worries, concerns about overeating and being triggered by family dynamics can often overshadow joy.? These five re-frames and strategies for reducing anxiety around food at the holidays can help you avoid falling into traps of guilt or self-loathing and enable you to embrace?the holidays with more joy.?
- Prioritize Self-Care Morning self-care routines are a grounding way to begin any day.? A bit of meditation, gratitude reflections, journaling, stretching, movement, and connecting to self set?a positive?tone for the day ahead. Two bonus tips: Avoid shorting yourself on sleep over the holiday; being even an hour short of sleep (think time zone changes) can lead to less-than-stellar food choices. Staying well-hydrated especially as we head into colder weather is critical for optimal brain and vital organ function.?
- Be Mindful Be?mindful as you are filling your thanksgiving meal plate and throughout?the meal. You can ask yourself if your choices are being driven by a physical hunger or?emotional ones; Try to slow?down and tune in with all your senses as you eat. Taking sips of water every few bites, setting down utensils frequently?and minimizing alcohol consumption enhances mindful eating practices.?
- Be Prepared If you have a tendency to overeat at holiday meals, rehearse. Imagine yourself feeling good at the end of your holiday meal, and feeling comfortably satisfied, but not stuffed. Focus on how accomplished and proud you'll feel for not having put yourself into the traditional Thanksgiving food comma.?If you're in charge of the meal or bringing something to the table as a guest, consider a healthier alternative to sugar-laden desserts.
- Set Boundaries If family or friends have a way of triggering overeating responses in you or they are food pushers, plan ahead for how you'll push back or remain neutral.??
- Stay Balanced Maintaining health and happiness is about avoiding extreme states. One of my favorite life axioms, "All things in moderation except love and laughter’ applies here.??
Whether you're looking for more daily energy or?more results in your weight loss journey, get in touch with me
for a judgement free, no-obligation chat about shifting your trajectory. You can start feeling more you again without diets, injections, gimmicks or extremes.?
Certified Behavior Change Specialist
Certified Personal Fitness Trainer
Certified Whole Health Coach
