Food Freedom Reminders for the Holidays

The holidays are filled with great food, drinks and social activities. It is a time to enjoy what is going on around you and not count calories or be worried about eating “clean” foods. Food is an important part of day to day life and serves a purpose much larger than “fuel” (check out my last blog post for more information on that!). While the “food noise” can be loud this holiday season it is important to remember everything important going on around you!

Here are some tips to help you if this time of year is difficult for you and your relationship with food. 

Food is not “Fuel”

It serves so many other purposes. It is a way to connect, a way to make memories, and is nostalgic, especially around this time of year! Instead of counting calories and trying to “stay on track” it is important to be present and in the moment. You CAN eat things you might not usually eat guilt-free! Enjoy eating cookie dough with your kids or grabbing a drink with your friends this holiday season!

You don’t HAVE to exercise during the holidays

Exercise freedom is a part of food freedom. This season can be extremely chaotic and if getting a workout in daily doesn’t fit into your schedule, no problem! Being able to prioritize your life events without feeling the need to “burn” off food or earn your food is the most important thing of exercise freedom. Take the time to sit and relax this holiday season without the guilt of not exercising! 

You don’t need a New Year’s resolution

Make this year the year you don’t start a new diet, join a gym you do not like, or participate in a form of exercise that you are not really interested in. This New Year, start prioritizing your relationship with food and exercise. Stop making yourself eat things or move in ways that do not serve you. Unfollow people on social media that promote ideas that contradict your food freedom journey. If you feel like you need a new year’s resolution, make it something not related to your physical appearance! 

You don’t need to “burn it off”

The food you eat is used for energy. Whether it is a gingerbread man or an apple, your body knows what to do with the nutrients provided by all food. Eating a little extra over the holidays is just a little extra energy! There is no need to worry or stress about calories or “burning” off your food. Your body will thank you for the extra energy during this chaotic time of the year.

Just enjoy the holidays

The holidays are a short period of time in the year. With this being said, you should enjoy whatever you want, whenever you want during the holidays! No need to skip your favorite sweets or drinks! They are only around once a year! The holiday meals most stress about are a teeny tiny amount of meals we consume during the year. There is no need to stress over them!