Tips for a Healthy Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has a bit of a reputation…
It’s the ultimate holiday for indulging in life's simple pleasures, like comfy clothes, quality time with the fam, and of course - tasty food.
But, that doesn't mean you have to kiss your health goals goodbye!
In fact, please don’t. Not because of “calories” - that’s dumb. Because I want you to feel your best! Food fuels us. I want you to fuel yourself this thanksgiving with delicious foods and in a way that allows you to feel happy and energetic vs groggy and gross.
My philosophy on health and wellness is all about nourishing your body with foods and practices that work for you, not restrictive diets or deprivation.
And that philosophy holds true even during a holiday like Thanksgiving, which is all about the indulgent food!
Here are 5 tips for savoring the holiday without sacrificing your wellness OR stressing about every single bite:
Mindful Eating: Pay attention to what you eat and savor each bite. Be aware of how certain foods make you feel, and listen to your body when it’s telling you it’s had enough.
Stay Active: Incorporate physical activity into your holiday routine, even better if it’s outside! Go for a family walk or play a yard game with the kiddos, like football or freeze tag!
Manage Stress: As much as I love them, the holidays can be stressful. Menu planning, outfit planning, grocery shopping, timing and coordinating dishes…it can all pile up! Stress causes inflammation in the body, so remember to practice stress-reduction techniques like deep breathing, meditation, or visualizations to keep it at bay. Also - just care less… it’ll all be ok!
Stay Hydrated: Keeping up with your water intake is so important every day for your overall health, but especially now to help flush the extra sodium that’s common in Thanksgiving dishes.
Get Restful Sleep: Sleep is often overlooked as a key component of overall health and wellness, but it’s seriously SO important! Make sure to prioritize good sleep hygiene to get RESTFUL sleep. Good sleep hygiene practices can be things like: avoiding screens and bright lights before bedtime; sticking to a consistent sleep schedule; avoiding caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals before bedtime; or creating a relaxing bedtime routine, like taking a warm shower or reading a book.
This year, let’s skip the food guilt and focus on what really matters: cultivating a healthy relationship with food, your body, and your mind.
If you’re just starting out on your health journey, this holiday might feel intimidating… Remember to give yourself grace, and stay focused on the big picture of your wellness!
For more tips on achieving balance and understanding your body’s unique needs, check out my new book, Eat to Treat! Visit www.eattotreat.com/book to grab your copy.
