The holiday season is here, and with it comes the opportunity to enjoy time with loved ones and indulge in festive meals. Here is a guide with ideas for mindful balancing before, during, and after the Thanksgiving feast.
Tips to Plan and Prepare
Set Intentions
Reflect on how you want to feel after the holiday: energized, satisfied, and connected. Let these feelings guide your choices.
Plan ahead if you have dietary preferences or restrictions. Provide a dish that aligns with your needs to share with others.
Start the Day Right
Start your day with a large glass of water and don’t skip breakfast. Eating a balanced breakfast with protein, healthy fats, and fiber can stabilize your blood sugar and prevent overeating later.
Move Your Body
Schedule a morning walk, light yoga session, or any type of movement you connect to. Physical activity can reduce stress and prepare your body for a hearty meal.
Tips to Enjoy Mindfully
Focus on Balanced Choices
Center your plate around lean protein(s), such as commonly served turkey, and plenty of vibrant vegetables.
Slow Down and Savor
Savor each bite and fully enjoy all the flavors without overindulging to the point of discomfort. If you’re still hungry, you can always go back for more! Eat slowly to tune into fullness signals.
Try to encourage your family to space out courses.
Stay hydrated, especially if you’re drinking alcohol.
Stay Engaged
Focus on connection, gratitude, and meaningful conversations.
Tips to Reset and Reconnect
Move Your Body
Take a post-meal stroll with family, friends, and or your dog(s) to aid digestion and keep your energy up… or have a little dance party!
Note: it’s okay if you don’t make time for movement on Thanksgiving. Don’t feel forced, even if you have specific health and wellness goals. It’s good to give your mind, body, and spirit time to relax and indulge without any guilt. If you want, try to make time for some movement the day after for balance.
Hydrate and Nourish
Drink plenty of water to flush out excess sodium and stay hydrated. Add a squeeze of lemon for an extra detox boost.
Incorporate lighter, nourishing meals the following day. If applicable, you can make use of leftovers. Ideas:
Loaded salad or grain bowl
Turkey soup (you can save the turkey carcass to make a homemade stock - freeze some for later use. Great for turkey chili and soup!)
Turkey salad (leftover turkey, avocado mayo, celery, onion, etc. → twist: curry powder)
Turkey wrap or sandwich (sourdough and whole wheat are great options). Pair with a granny smith apple, Dijon mustard, and arugula.
Leftover pumpkin? Try this pumpkin hummus recipe: https://www.goodlivin.net/post/pumpkin-hummus – it can also work well as an app on Thanksgiving.
Reflect and Recharge
Practice gratitude by reminiscing or journaling about the positive moments of the day. This can be a self-practice, or something to do with family.
Get quality sleep to help your body recover and maintain good energy levels for the rest of the holiday season.
Thanksgiving is a time to embrace gratitude and connection. With a balanced approach, you can nurture your mind and body while cherishing special moments.
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