Enjoy Thanksgiving Meals: Prioritize Connection Over Perfection
Have you ever gone to a Thanksgiving meal with a gameplan of how you should eat to not feel bad about yourself (physically or mentally) or guilty for what you eat? Do you ever feel bad about or lament meal choices during the holidays? Found yourslef overthinking food or drink choices instead of enjoying them? If this sounds like something you do then this is for you.
As Thanksgiving approaches, you might wonder how to balance your health goals with the indulgent meals and packed social calendar. But what if this holiday season, instead of obsessing over calories or holding to your workout plans, you simply allowed yourself to enjoy? What if things looked a little different than you planned or less than ideal but yo had more fun?
The drumbeat of “earn or burn your Thanksgiving meal” can be exhausting. Worse yet, those messages can suck the joy out of a time that’s meant for celebration, gratitude, and connection. This year, let’s try something different: stop overthinking and focus on savoring the season.
The Case for Letting Go (a Little)
Holidays can often feel like a balancing act between maintaining our health habits and leaning into the festivities. But what if health and joy aren’t mutually exclusive? Research shows that stress and guilt about food can do more harm than a slice of pie ever will. This Thanksgiving, consider embracing the mindset of “enoughness”.
You don’t need to overhaul your goals, hit every workout, or strategize every bite. Instead, focus on maintaining a sense of balance and finding joy in the present moment. Sometimes, the healthiest choice is to relax the reins, especially when it’s about creating memories with loved ones. Focusing instead on having fun without entirely letting go to behaviors you prioritize for health can help you feel good all around.
Tips for a More Joyful Thanksgiving
Here’s how you can shift your mindset to make Thanksgiving both enjoyable and guilt-free:
1. Enjoy the Food, Really Enjoy It
Thanksgiving is about abundance and gratitude, and food is a centerpiece of that. Rather than labeling foods “good” or “bad,” allow yourself to indulge in what you love. But here’s the trick: slow down. Savor each bite, relish the flavors, and truly experience the meal. When you eat mindfully, you’re more likely to feel satisfied with less and avoid the spiral of guilt.
2. Connect with Loved Ones
Let’s face it, the turkey and marshmallow sweet potatoes might be the stars of the show, but the real feast is the company. This Thanksgiving, make connecting with friends and family your priority. Ask questions, share stories, and soak in the moments that make the holiday special. Engaging with others and being social can be incredibly fulfilling and fun!
3. Move for Joy, Not Obligation
If you love a good Turkey Trot or hitting the gym before dinner or next day, go for it! But make it about how it makes you feel long term and your lifestyle including movement, not about “earning” or “burning” your plate. Maybe it’s a walk with family after the meal or playing a game in the yard. Moving your body doesn’t need to be about burning calories—it can just be about feeling good.
4. De-Stress on Your Terms
Holidays can be overwhelming, so find a way to decompress. Whether it’s a quick nap, a morning meditation, or simply stepping outside for fresh air on a walk, give yourself permission to hit pause. A less stressed you is a healthier, happier you (especially during with unique holiday stressors).
A Simple Guide for Staying Balanced (If You Want It)
If maintaining some healthy habits helps you feel your best, here’s an easy way to do it without overthinking:
Focus on Protein and Fiber: Load your plate with turkey, vegetables, and other fiber-rich sides before diving into the stuffing and desserts. You’ll feel fuller and more balanced.
Hydrate: Start your day with water and stay hydrated through the feast. It’s a simple way to feel good without much effort.
Portion Mindfully: Take a little of everything you want and enjoy every bite. It’s not about restriction; it’s about balance.
Get Moving Later: Take a stroll after the meal. Not to “burn off” the food but to enjoy the crisp air and good company.
This Thanksgiving, Prioritize What Matters Most
The magic of Thanksgiving isn’t in perfect macros or a pristine workout schedule—it’s in connection, gratitude, and joy. So let go of the need to get everything “right” and lean into the things that matter most. Eat the pie, enjoy the company, and let this holiday be about more than just the food on your plate.
And remember, the gym will still be there tomorrow. Today is for enjoying time with others, being grateful for what you have, and decompressing.
What’s one way you’ll enjoy Thanksgiving more this year? Let us know, and if you want more tips for navigating the season with ease, reach out!
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