With the Thanksgiving holiday comes the kick-off of celebrations and festivities that last through the new year. Along with these gatherings come a faster pace, more stress, and less rest. Healthy habits can fall to the wayside and lead to a not-so-healthy start to the new year. Start the holiday season off well and stay on track with your goals with these healthy Thanksgiving tips.
Limit alcohol
Excess stress can lead to excess drinking. Keep alcohol consumption in moderation by drinking a glass of water before the next round of drinks. Pre-decide how many drinks you will have in advance of your gathering and you will be more likely to stop when you’ve hit your limit. Practicing this healthy Thanksgiving tip will help you better manage your emotions during the holidays.
Build a healthy plate
When it’s time to gather for the Thanksgiving meal, focus on the vegetables and proteins. Fill half your plate with vegetables, one-quarter of the plate with turkey (or other protein), and then enjoy the potatoes, stuffing, bread, or other sides in moderation. Enjoy dessert, too! This healthy Thanksgiving tip will give you a good balance of macronutrients and leave you feeling satisfied without feeling overly full.
Give thanks
Practicing gratitude is a healthy holiday tip that might seem obvious, but in the busyness of the day it’s easy to overlook the reason for the celebration. Take a minute to pause and practice gratitude. You don’t have to wait until Thanksgiving to start this one. Begin by giving thanks today and spend the month focusing on gratitude.
Eat breakfast
While it’s tempting to save up calories for the Thanksgiving meal, a healthy Thanksgiving tip not to skip is to start your day off right. Eat breakfast. It’s okay to keep this meal light, but include a good balance of protein, healthy fat, and a small portion of carbs to start on the right track. Doing so will prevent you from overeating and feeling uncomfortable later on.
Get outside
If the weather allows, take a walk in the fresh crisp fall air. Throw a football around or go to the park with your family or friends. Being in nature boosts your wellbeing and reduces stress. Enjoying time outdoors with people you love is a healthy Thanksgiving tip everyone can benefit from as it improves relational wellbeing and connection with one another.
Prioritize rest
Prioritizing sleep and feeling more rested is a healthy Thanksgiving tip that will lead to a better holiday celebration. With good rest, you will interact better with others, make better decisions, and have the energy to enjoy the day more fully. Get to bed with enough time to get 7 hours of sleep before your gathering to be better prepared for the day ahead.
Get up and move
Football, feasting, and family is the perfect recipe for sitting. Ideally, get in a workout on Thanksgiving morning before you gather. Recruit a friend or family member to join you. If formal exercise isn’t in your plans, get up and move throughout your day. Stand while you converse and move about your gathering space regularly for a healthier Thanksgiving day.
By following these healthy Thanksgiving tips you will kick off the holiday season well by establishing a healthier rhythm for the weeks ahead.
