5 Ways to Not Stress About Food During the Holidays
The holidays don't have to be stressful, especially when it comes to food, fitness and living a healthy lifestyle. Here are 5 tips to keep you sane & well during the holiday season.
5 Ways to NOT Stress About Food During the Holidays
Does the thought of being around so much food during the holidays stress you out?
I remember back in the day when I would literally fake sick so I didn't have to go to Christmas parties because I was SO anxious around food.
"But what about my goals? I want to stay on track. I can't trust myself around food. I will eat everything in sight if I go."
... these are only a few of the stories I used to tell myself during the holiday party season.
The holidays are a time of great joy, but for many of us who have experienced the "diet culture" at some point, it can also be a time of great stress.
I love the idea of "HEY ITS THE HOLIDAYS! Don't woooorry bout it and enjoy yourself."
But we all know that it's not as easy as just pretending everything is fine - especially when you're heading to a holiday party and get an overwhelming sense of anxiety of "should I or shouldn't I eat X, Y, Z?"
Here are some practical tips for a stress-free, mindful holiday:
1. Never go to a party/dinner/aunt Susan's house hungry. Drink a protein shake (almond milk + choc @gardenoflife protein = BOMB) or have at least protein and veggies. That way, you're not ravenous and tempted to eat everything in sight.
2. Be discerning. This means don't choose the stale chocolate chip cookies your uncle Jim bought from the store just because they're there. Be discerning about what you indulge in (like having a slice of your grandmas pie she only makes once a year).
3. Practice mindfulness. Before you fill up your plate, take a deep breath and ask yourself, "what can I eat to truly nourish and energize myself right now?" And if you still choose a piece of pie, totally fine because you are the one with the power, making the decision. #adultlife
4. Remember the basics: these are *my tips* that work for me - I avoid appetizers (because I just had my protein shake, remember?); I fill the majority of my plate with protein and veggies for my main meal; I choose ONE dessert that I really want (refer to the above point about discernment).
5. Aaaand most of all: focus on connection! The holidays are one of the only times during the year that most of the family gets together (which can be good and bad hehe), so try to relax, focus on conversation, and have fun.
Oh and you can always recommend a family activity like a walk after dinner or football game (don't pick me, please).
️ LOVE YA! Happy holidays babe!
xo
Images by Katelynn Carlson Photography