Thanksgiving and Being Thankful
Thanksgiving week is here!
I’m not sure where November went, or any of the months before this, but here we are! With Thanksgiving comes the joy of family, rest, and the coming Winter Holiday season, festivities, traditions! It also often starts the negative self talk of “holiday weight” or the dread of feeling over-served and lethargic. Whether or not we subscribe to it, we have all heard it- the plans to just “reset” after the Holidays and in the New Year, the fear of all the Holiday treats, indulgences, drinks and dessert, so on and so on! But instead of speaking about this season with any complaints or fear, we should be extra thankful, and savor it. The extra time with family and friends, the joys that sweet treats bring when made by a neighbor or loved one, and the funny conversations to be had over drinks.
Mindset can influence how we digest our food, so shift any negativity to the reason for the season-thanks! Be thankful for those that you are able to spend the Holiday with, even if it's a much smaller gathering this year, or just one friend or significant other. Be thankful for your health, the health of those near or far, and the ability to enjoy what is on your plate.
There are some actions you can keep in mind to feel well, and enjoy your day (and the next) to your best!
Don’t skip all meals leading up to your Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner, and then overeat out of hunger! Instead, treat it like most normal days of eating. Hydrate and fuel your body beforehand with a well rounded meal of protein, fat and fiber, so you are satiated leading up to your dinner. This will keep your blood sugar stable and away from that sharp decline.
You don’t need a “turkey burner” workout that morning, or to over-exert yourself, but start your day with some form of movement. It could be a family walk, some stretching in your room or a short circuit of your favorite moves. This can help your digestion that day and clear your head! And don’t worry if it's simple! Oftentimes we overestimate how many calories we burn in an intense workout, and that can lead to you feeling hungrier later in the day, so simple or low impact is great!
Don’t forget that water alongside (and before) that wine! You’ll thank me the next day.
Slow Down. I bet those seconds will be there after the meal (unless you have some growing younger brothers) so don’t rush through your food! It's likely you will be sitting for a while, so take your time, put your fork down and be mindful about your meal so you don’t rush through it! Enjoy the different flavors and take your time!
Give yourself grace. Enjoy your favorite dishes, sides, and desserts and don’t beat yourself up about it. Remember that no one day of eating will change you, good or bad! So enjoy it and remember that tomorrow is a new day ( and follow some of these tips the next day too!)
And let me know how I can help! I’m here if you need guidance along the way! Smaller, helpful habits are the key to not feeling overwhelmed later.