4 Tips for a Happy and Mindful Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday for many, a time to gather with loved ones around a table of delicious food and kick off the holiday season. But as joyful as this celebration can be, it can also feel overwhelming, especially for those on an intuitive eating journey. The idea of facing a Thanksgiving feast might feel intimidating if you’re still working to let go of food fears and embrace all foods without guilt.

Don’t worry, you’re not alone, and this doesn’t have to be a stressful time. This Thanksgiving, let’s focus on staying in control, not by restricting, but by embracing intuitive and mindful eating to truly honor and respect your body.

Here are four tips to help you navigate Thanksgiving with mindfulness and confidence:

1. Stay Present and Aware

Thanksgiving can be full of distractions: lively conversations, football games, and an abundance of food. To avoid eating past fullness, set an intention to stay mindful. Pay attention to the food choices you’re making, the portions you’re serving, and how you’re feeling as you eat. Check in with your hunger and fullness cues throughout the meal, it takes practice, but it’s worth it!

2. Start with Small Portions

When your favorite dishes only come around once a year, it’s tempting to overload your plate. Instead, serve yourself small portions to start. This allows you to savor your food without feeling uncomfortably full. Remember, you can always go back for seconds if you’re still hungry. This approach also reduces food waste while honoring your body’s needs.

3. Listen to Your Body

If you grew up in the “clean your plate club,” breaking that habit can be tough. This Thanksgiving, commit to tuning into your body’s signals. Stop eating when you feel comfortably satisfied, no need to push past fullness. If you can’t finish everything, save leftovers to enjoy later. This way, you get to enjoy your favorite dishes without discomfort.

4. Pace Yourself

Slowing down during your meal is key to mindful eating. Put your fork down between bites, and take the time to chat with family or friends. This gives your brain a chance to register fullness signals from your stomach. By pacing yourself, you’re more likely to feel satisfied and less likely to overeat.

The holiday season can be challenging, especially for those new to intuitive eating. Resisting the urge to eat past satiety takes practice and patience, but you can do it!

For an even more mindful Thanksgiving, consider starting your day with a refreshing walk or some movement to boost your mood and energy. And don’t skip breakfast, heading into dinner overly hungry makes it harder to listen to your body’s signals.

Above all, remember this: you are in control. Trust in yourself and the choices you’re making to honor your body. This year, let’s leave behind dieting habits and embrace the joy of intuitive eating—because you deserve to feel good in your body and enjoy the holidays.