Hey there. This time of year you’ll start seeing many “survival guides” for eating during the holidays. Let’s look at specific tips for each of the three holidays listed below, along with a couple of extra tips to keep you in a more relaxed headspace.
Halloween: Enjoying the Sweet Treats
Halloween often brings candy, and lots of it! There’s no need to fear indulging in some sweets, whether it’s leftover Halloween candy or enjoying a treat on the day. The fitness industry sometimes promotes the idea of “earning” treats through workouts or restricting certain foods, but this can create an unhealthy association with food. Instead, savor the treats guilt-free and move on. Remember, a few pieces of candy won’t impact your overall health journey.
Thanksgiving: A Feast for the Soul
Thanksgiving is all about food and gratitude. For many, it’s an opportunity to gather and enjoy a shared meal. Whether it’s the traditional turkey, stuffing, or pies, Thanksgiving food is meant to be enjoyed. One day of indulgence won’t derail your health journey, and letting yourself truly savor the meal can make it a more fulfilling experience. Focus on gratitude for the moment, the food, and the people around you.
Christmas & New Year’s: Festive Foods and Traditions
For some, the entire holiday season is filled with gatherings and seasonal treats, from cookie exchanges to holiday dinners. Embrace it all! If you’re someone who loves holiday treats like gingerbread cookies, peppermint lattes, or Christmas tree cakes, give yourself permission to enjoy them without restriction. By taking this approach, you’ll be less likely to overindulge from a place of scarcity or guilt and more likely to savor each treat mindfully.
The Importance of Staying Off the Scale in January
One practical tip for enjoying the holidays guilt-free is to avoid weighing yourself in January. Weight fluctuations during the holiday season are normal, and they don’t reflect your long-term progress. Instead of letting the scale dictate how you feel, focus on getting back into your routines in a way that feels natural and balanced. Trust that your foundation will help you regain any sense of structure you might want.
A New Perspective: Seeing the Holidays as Part of a Balanced Year
By seeing the holidays as a small part of a balanced year, you take the pressure off yourself. Let the holiday season be a time of joy, connection, and celebration without the added stress. When you allow yourself to fully enjoy these moments, you create a more sustainable and enjoyable approach to health. After all, food is not just fuel; it’s also a way to connect, celebrate, and find comfort.
The holidays are meant to be a time of joy, not stress. By building a solid foundation that aligns with your preferences, you can embrace every celebration guilt-free. Enjoy the treats, savor the moments, and remember that this is all part of a balanced, fulfilling life. You’re not sacrificing your health goals by celebrating—you’re enhancing your well-being through connection, enjoyment, and mindfulness.
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