Four strategies to feast on this Thanksgiving

One of the biggest food-centered holidays is on the horizon! Thanksgiving can be a day to slow down and reflect on the actual words “thanks” and “giving.” We also recognize this day might require a lot of extra energy, pre-planning, and even a little patience. Holidays can be joyful and stressful, and that stress can be a major trigger for over-eating.

This year, you can include your Wondr skills in your list of things to be thankful for. They were made to help you through the holidays.

Thanksgiving might mean enjoying a homemade buffet in the kitchen and hours nestled on the couch watching football. Or a casual picnic in the driveway, connecting with neighbors over a roasted turkey fresh from the smoker. Maybe it’s a morning walk at the local “turkey trot,” a formal family sit-down dinner, or a day of “Friends-giving”.

With all the different holiday traditions we enjoy across the country, this celebration looks different for everyone. Whatever it looks like for you, it can be a chance to connect with the people that matter most to you.

And it’s the perfect time to use your Wondr Skills and make a plan ahead of time. Consider these mindful eating skills and strategies to help you enjoy the day and maintain your weight loss goals.

1. Focus on Flexibility

This mindset acknowledges that special days often involve a change in your usual routine. You may eat meals at different times. A focus on flexibility means that you can create a loose plan around when and what you will eat, then pause to bring some extra awareness to your feelings of hunger, fullness, and satisfaction. One example of flexibility could be planning to enjoy your favorite Hunger Saver to hold off on your Hunger Level 3 until dinner is ready.

2. Savor the Flavors

Give yourself permission to enjoy the traditional and unique flavors that come with your special meal. Use your During-Meal Skills to slow down and give your mind and body a chance to be satisfied. Chew slowly to truly take in all the tastes you don’t typically enjoy the rest of the year. If you happen to eat more during this time, remember that you can reset and get back to your routine at the next meal!

3. Rule of 3

The Rule of 3 was made for Thanksgiving! This strategy helps ensure that you get flavor satisfaction with the foods you truly enjoy! First, scan all of the food offerings. Next, consider which three items you really want to eat by thinking about the taste, texture, aroma, and appearance of those foods. Sit down, take a few deep breaths, and enjoy those three favorite foods. If you still feel hungry, go back and mindfully choose a small portion to savor – and of course, stop when you’re comfortably full.

4. Remember Grace and Gratitude

Make this year an opportunity to practice your Wondr skills in new ways. If things don’t go quite as planned, give yourself some grace—knowing that you can re-balance at the very next meal. Give thanks for the food that’s nourishing your body and for the memories you’re making during this holiday season.