The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and, often, a lot of food. From Thanksgiving turkeys to Christmas cookies, Hanukkah latkes to New Year’s Eve hors d’oeuvres, there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to enjoy. However, it can also be a time when many of us fall into the trap of overindulgence, leading to discomfort and guilt. The key to fully enjoying this festive season without going overboard is the practice of mindful eating.

What is Mindful Eating?

Mindful eating is about being fully present and aware of your eating experience. It involves paying attention to the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food, as well as noticing your body’s hunger and fullness cues. It’s not just about what you eat, but how you eat.

Benefits of Mindful Eating During the Holidays

• Enhanced Enjoyment: When you slow down and savor each bite, you might find that you enjoy your food more. This can lead to greater satisfaction with smaller portions.
• Better Digestion: Eating slowly and mindfully can improve digestion and reduce gastrointestinal discomfort.
• Awareness of Hunger and Fullness: By tuning into your body’s cues, you can avoid eating past the point of fullness.
• Reduced Stress: Mindful eating can be a meditative practice, helping to reduce stress and increase feelings of calm.

Tips for Mindful Eating During the Holidays

• Start with Small Portions: You can always have more if you’re still hungry, but starting small encourages you to check in with your hunger and fullness levels.
• Eat Slowly and Chew Thoroughly: This gives your brain time to register fullness, which can take about 20 minutes.
• Limit Distractions: Try to eat away from the TV, computer, or smartphone. This helps you focus on the experience of eating.
• Engage Your Senses: Notice the smell, texture, and taste of your food. This can make the eating experience more enjoyable and fulfilling.
• Check-In with Your Body: Periodically during your meal, pause to assess your hunger and fullness levels.
• Practice Gratitude: Take a moment to be thankful for the food on your plate and the people you’re sharing it with.
• Be Kind to Yourself: If you do overindulge, don’t beat yourself up. Acknowledge it, learn from the experience, and move on.

Mindful eating during the holidays doesn’t mean you have to miss out on your favorite festive treats. Instead, it’s about enjoying them in a way that feels good for your body and mind. By eating mindfully, you can savor every bite of the holiday season, without the side of guilt. Remember, the holidays are a time for celebration and enjoyment – and that includes enjoying your food!

If you would like support staying on your health journey during the holidays, give us a call! We have treatments that can help.