Tips To Combat Holiday Food Anxiety

Let me tell you something.
The Holiday Season is my favorite.
I absolutely love Christmas time and all the different bells and whistles that go along with it. The different kinds of decorating, the family gatherings, cookie decorating, giving gifts, holiday parties, just being with loved ones, the list goes on and on.

But more than feeling joy during the holiday parties or the family gatherings, I would feel anxiety and guilt for the meals and treats I hadn't even had yet. That's right, guilt.

Why? Well, most of you reading probably know why because you also have those feelings about the holidays. I feel like that because I know I'm going to over-indulge. I know I'm going to go over my 'allotted' calories for the day. But what I didn't take into account the privilege of simply being present in the moment with my family and friends.
Two years ago, at Christmas time I would fast all day so that I could have all the treats and indulge in a meal, but I would still feel guilty.

Christmas 2016

Last Christmas, I was training for a bikini competition. So I had to watch my macro-nutrient intake. I made sure to stay within my limits and I steered clear of any 'bad foods.' But what I missed out on, was what my siblings and I like to call, 'Polish Christmas' with my family overseas. Was I proud of myself? Hell yes. And I recognize that it probably isn't the healthiest mindset to have, but I was so proud that I was able to say no to so many different food options, knowing that I wasn't going to be able to get them back home. But it didn't matter, I said no.

Christmas 2017

This year, I plan on sticking to my macros given to me by my coach. What is different this year from the last two years, is even though I am watching what I eat, I am not going to give up moments with my loved ones in favor for saving 150 calories.

I want anyone reading this to know that it is okay to live in favor of what you want. If you are working hard on your goals and working hard to achieve perfection with your body... let yourself enjoy the holidays. Don't go crazy and eat 12 days worth of calories, protein, fat and carbs in 2 days, but enjoy your time.

This was a complete shift in mental space from years prior. I have had such great support from my coach, my husband, my siblings and friends. Here are some tips that helped me with my holiday anxiety and I hope they help you too!

Tips to combat Holiday Anxiety 

1) Plan your day out.

This helps because you won't be caught off guard by hunger on long drives or little nibbles here or there. If you have your approximate macros for each meal, you know how much you can play with. For example, if you have your meals somewhat laid out, you know you will eat approximately 1,200 calories. Leaving 300 calories free if your goal is 1,500 calories for the day to have some fun things. 

2) Journal

I like to write out how I'm feeling. It gives me clarity and understanding that this too will pass. Emotions are powerful things, but they only have the power over you that you give them. If you are feeling particularly overwhelmed with how your Christmas Eve, Christmas or maybe just the holiday gathering is going, I recommend trying to write out how you are feeling to truly understand what's causing those emotions. 

3) List what you are excited about

Like I said earlier, I love Christmas and it is full of magic. If you are feeling like you are focusing so much on food, on what you can or cannot eat, list what makes you excited about the holidays and focus on those. Focusing on these things that make you excited, can draw your attention from the things that are causing you stress. 

4) Take a walk

Simple. Effective. Just get outside. Fresh air and exercise has always helped me get my mind off of things that stress me out. Give it a try. 

This one is a hit or a miss, it works for me, but I can see how it would not work for others...

5) Help cook the meal or treat

Cooking, I've found, is really calming and stress-relieving for me. So when I was feeling anxious about the food that I was going to be around, I would ask if I could help cook it. Somehow, being part of making the meal, made it easier for me to not indulge in it. 

6) Remember the real reason for the season

It's not about stressing out about giving gifts, it's not about stressing out about the cookies that will be there, it's not about stressing out about being in 4 different places at once, it is about being with your loved ones and being grateful for all the love and light you have. I know that it is easier said than done, but know that focusing on the positive will make you feel better.

Let me know if there is any tip you have that would be good to add to the list and if this is helpful! 

I hope each and every one of you have a very Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!