Mindful Eating this Holiday Season
Set yourself up for success by taking time to ponder how you want your holiday to go. What do you want to receive from it? What do you want to give? What are your boundaries?
Set up guidelines so hard decisions are made before delicious temptation is set before you. Will you eat one slice of pie? Only stick to the main course? Or be okay with cutting loose and giving yourself a free day?
Slow down, see your food, smell your food, taste your food, breath, and give thanks.
Chew! Don't gobble down dinner and then swallow dessert. Your body will sing your praises if you simply take the time to chew. Now only will it break down your food to make digestion easier, but it will allow your stomach to catch up to your brain so without getting over stuffed.
you will know when you are full
Try to stick to natural sweeteners. While honey and maple syrup still are not "healthy" they are a better option than white refined sugar. Try bringing a pumpkin pie made with coconut or date sugar to the party!
Express gratitude for not only your food but your body as well. Cut yourself some slack and practice a little self love. Eat with gratitude for the nutrients and love the food is providing you with. Avoid the guilt trips as your mind is powerful, if you eat with the belief that the food is "bad" and will add ten pounds on, chances are that thought will become reality. Instead, love yourself and accept a splurge as an enjoyment in life, use this time to bond with friends and family over a meal versus flog yourself for your weakness.