Holiday Eating Tips: Balancing Festive Food and Body Image with Ease
Picture this: the holidays are approaching, there’s festive excitement in the air. You’re looking forward to gatherings, delicious food, and reconnecting with loved ones. But alongside that joy, there’s a familiar worry creeping in - concerns about what you’ll eat, how you’ll look, and how to manage it all. It feels like a tug-of-war between wanting to enjoy yourself fully and the pressure to restrict, compensate with post-party exercise, feel guilty or say “stuff it!” and go all out.
You start planning: “maybe I’ll bring my own food to the party.” Or perhaps thoughts like, “I’ll skip a few meals before the big holiday feast,” creep in. There’s even the urge to justify your food choices or go on a strict health reset come January. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The holiday season can be especially challenging when you're working on a positive relationship with food and body image.
So, instead of dreading the festivities, explore these five practical ways to navigate holiday eating with more peace, flexibility, and joy.
1. Keep Up with Regular Eating
Skipping meals to "save up" for a big holiday feast can lead to intense hunger making it harder to enjoy food mindfully. Try to stick to a regular pattern of balanced meals and snacks to prevent over-eating or feeling out of control.
2. Embrace Body Appreciation Over Body Positivity
Body positivity sure does feel difficult when holiday events bring up insecurities. So, consider focusing on body appreciation instead. Rather than forcing positive thoughts, try to acknowledge and respect your body for all it does. Body appreciation is much more realistic and beneficial for mental well-being, especially during high-stress times. For more body image support, read our top three tips for better body image here.
3. Prepare Responses for Body and Food Comments
Sigh. Holiday gatherings almost always come with unsolicited comments about weight or food choices. You can’t change others (sigh again), but you can focus on your own actions. Take some time to prepare gentle yet firm responses to set boundaries, like, “I’m focusing on enjoying myself this season, not on what I eat.” Or, shift the topic by saying, “Let’s focus on catching up - how’s work been?” Setting boundaries protects your peace without creating tension.
4. Focus on Non-Food Activities
Holiday gatherings don’t have to be all about food. Suggest activities that center around connection rather than just the meal. Playing board games, watching a holiday movie, or going for a walk can help shift focus from food and allow you to enjoy quality time with loved ones in other meaningful ways.
5. Be Gentle with Yourself
It’s okay if you overeat or eat foods you don’t typically choose. Remember, one day (or week) won’t derail your health journey. Extend yourself compassion and remind yourself that you’re allowed to indulge and enjoy without guilt. Taking a more flexible approach allows you to be present and truly savor the holiday experience.
Finding Balance and Joy This Holiday Season
The holidays can stir up a mix of emotions, especially if you’re working on a healthier relationship with food and body image. It’s normal to feel conflicted, but remember, the goal is not perfection. This season, prioritise self-compassion, connection, and setting boundaries where needed. Give yourself permission to enjoy the festivities in a way that aligns with your values and well-being.
If you find yourself needing more support, our team at The Lifestyle Dietitian is here to help. Together, we can work through the challenges and make the holiday season one of balance and joy. Book you first appointment today.
AFTER MORE BALANCED HOLIDAY TIPS? CHECK OUT OUR LIBRARY OF ARTICLES AND RECIPES WRITTEN BY OUR DIETITIANS:
