Enjoy Thanksgiving (and beyond...) guilt free!
The holidays can be a trying time for many who are keeping their health goals a priority, but much of the angst we feel comes from a feeling that we can't have certain things we love. I am here to encourage you to change your mindset about eating during the holidays with a few simple tips...
1. Start your day with a healthy breakfast! Do not deprive yourself of breakfast in order to save calories! Your body will thank you for a nourishing start, and you will arrive at your holiday meal without being famished and ready to binge! You will feel in control, your blood sugar will be stable, and overall you will feel better.
2. Take a brisk walk in the morning. Keeping up with whatever your exercise routine is will keep you feeling energized and your mood stable. Get friends and family to join you for a stroll after dinner as well!
3. Be mindful about what you love, and plan to enjoy your favorite things. Have a little bit of everything, and savor each and every bite! Be aware of the aromas surrounding you. Breathe deeply and chew slowly, for longer than you normally would. You will get even more pleasure from the meal, and it helps with digestion, too!
4. Change you mindset from "I shouldn't be eating this,” to "Im choosing to eat this." This simple twist from negative to positive is powerful. You can also say, "I'm choosing not to eat that", instead of "I can't have that." It puts you in control and empowers you to make mindful choices, without guilt! Remember, it's not about depriving yourself, it's about balance!
5. With balance in mind, fill your plate up with vegetables! Make some roasted brussel sprouts or sautéed greens, and eat up! Winter squash, turnips, root vegetables are all wonderful sources of vitamins and antioxidants, not to mention, "grounding" for the mind and soul. Turkey is a great source of protein, and if you love the dark meat and skin, choose to eat it and let it nourish your body as it may need it during the long, cold months of winter.
6. Balance water with alcohol and sweet drinks. Enjoy your favorite beverages, and try to drink equal amounts of water.
7. Enjoy your pumpkin pie! Be thankful for your family and friends and the delicious food that surrounds you and bask in the happiness. The healthiest people, who live the longest are those who surround themselves with loving family and friends, and truly celebrate!
I wish you a very happy and healthy holiday season!
Julie F. Mitchell . Integrative Nutrition Coach . 207-315-0431 . jmitchell.healthcoach@gmail.com
United States
About this blog:
Fresh ideas about wellness
Julie Mitchell
Certified Integrative Nutrition Health Coach
Julie has enjoyed teaching young children for nearly 30 years before choosing to move into a new career in Integrative Nutrition. Her interest was sparked when she observed the connection of the typical diet of highly processed, artificial foods and increasing chronic health issues, food sensitivities, behavior and learning issues. She also realized that some of her own health issues were stemming from stress and anxiety caused by the changing public school system. She now coaches individuals, couples and families and provides workshops and classes both in Integrative Nutrition and cooking.
Julie lives in Wiscasset with her husband, golden retriever and cat in an old farmhouse nestled on a hill overlooking the Sheepscot River. They have raised 5 grown children and enjoy art, music, cooking and traveling. Julie can be reached for questions or comments at: jmitchell.healthcoach@gmail.com
207-315-0431
