Tips from an Emotional Eating Coach
Introduction
Thanksgiving is just around the corner, and holiday gatherings are in full swing. Have you ever thought, “It’s the holidays, so I’ll just enjoy everything and deal with it later,” and then ended up feeling stuffed, sluggish, and guilty? This mindset can sneak in easily when food feels like a reward or an escape. But what if your goal this season is to feel good—not just in the moment, but the whole season through?
In this article, we’ll look at how you can feel great by keeping your goals in mind. By the end, you'll know how to make choices that honor your body and your holiday joy. Ready to feel empowered around food this season? Let’s dive in!
Why Keeping Your Goal in Mind Makes the Holidays Easier
With holiday meals, family traditions, and tempting treats everywhere, it’s easy to lose sight of long-term goals. But here’s the thing: the choices you make now can affect how you feel for the entire season.
Before reaching for that extra slice of pie, pause and ask yourself: “Will this choice make me feel good in the long run?” This shift can help you stay in tune with how you really want to feel—balanced, joyful, and in control.
Here are some simple ways to stay aligned with your goals through the holidays:
- Pause before eating: Ask yourself, “Will this help me feel good for the rest of the day?” Imagine feeling energized rather than sluggish.
- Keep your goal front and center: Whether it’s feeling more energetic, fitting comfortably in your clothes, or enjoying each gathering guilt-free, keep this in mind before each choice.
- Take intentional steps: Instead of diving into the cookie tray right away, take a moment to savor what you love most, like your favorite homemade stuffing or seasonal dessert.
Turning Holiday Temptations into Empowerment Moments
The smell of pie in the oven, the sight of a holiday buffet, or even just a long day with family can bring on cravings. But what if you could turn that urge into a moment of empowerment?
Imagine this: You’re at the dessert table, tempted by pumpkin pie and chocolate fudge. Instead of mindlessly grabbing a piece, you remind yourself of how you want to feel—peaceful, joyful, and not overstuffed. Here’s how to turn temptation into empowerment:
- Think about tomorrow: Sure, that pie might taste great now, but how will you feel in a couple of hours? Or tomorrow morning? Remind yourself of that long-lasting good feeling.
- Practice mindful eating: When you choose something you love, take time to savor it, bite by bite. This way, you enjoy it fully and are less likely to overeat.
- Stay kind to yourself: If you indulge, don’t let guilt take over. You’re allowed to enjoy your favorite foods—just keep moving forward with choices that align with your goals.
Feeling strong around food doesn’t mean depriving yourself; it’s about making small choices that support the way you want to feel, even during the holidays.
Building a Strong Relationship with Yourself
Your relationship with food mirrors how you treat yourself. By focusing on your needs and holiday goals, you build self-trust and respect, which are essential for lasting change. Here’s a model that can guide you through empowered choices during the season:
- C (Circumstance): You’re at a holiday dinner, and food is everywhere.
- T (Thought): “I can make choices that support me.”
- F (Feeling): Empowered and calm
- A (Action): You pause, asking, “Will this make me feel good all season?”
- R (Result): You make choices that align with your goals, building a positive relationship with yourself.
This way of thinking helps you see food not just as something you enjoy in the moment, but as something that can support your emotional and physical well-being.
Conclusion: Make Each Holiday Food Choice a Step Towards Feeling Great
Every choice you make this holiday season can support the way you want to feel, both now and into the new year. It’s not about being perfect but about making decisions that honor your goals. Next time you’re faced with a tempting table, ask yourself: “Will this help me feel my best?”
Ready to feel strong and at peace with your choices? Book a consultation today, and let’s make this holiday season one that truly feels good!
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