Social Event/Holiday Over-Eating..
Many people go into a deep "food trance" experiencing "unconscious overeating" from Thanksgiving (the turkey is not all that gets stuffed!) to January 1st, and they wake-up" January 2nd somehow 5 to 7 lbs. fatter! Same goes for Memorial Day and the Fourth of July!
Losing track of how often what and how much one eats during the Holiday celebrations is often referred to as a "state of eating amnesia". Ironically, as a Hypnotherapist who specializes in weight loss, I put people in a trance to get them out of the "food trance" and back into control of their
mind and mouth!
Here are some Holiday/Social Event Eating Tips that I use with my personal hypnotherapy clients, so that they don't go unconscious…and mindfully enjoy Holiday Eating:
· Think Ahead: Make a list of all the holiday meals and parties you've been invited to, and then mark them on a calendar. This way you'll be reminded in advance of all your "celebratory" days. On these days it's best to eat lightly during the day as to balance the calories and fat in your party food. Maybe substitute a protein drink for a meal. Do not go to parties hungry! This sets you up for a binge!
· Resolve in advance, to limit your choices to your favorites, and to enjoy them in moderation.
· Go easy to second helpings….remember, you don't want to "wear it" later.
· Learn (and rehearse) how to politely say no to well intentioned hosts who "push food" on you…pour on the compliments to them instead!
· Proximity to food can also make a big difference…..socialize away from the buffet table, bar, and other ready sources of food and beverages.
· Alcohol can really pack a Holiday Punch! Alcohol can contribute a large number of calories to your party total. If drinking is important to your way of socializing, try to alternate diet sodas or seltzer with alcoholic beverages.
· Pay attention to Emotional Issues=Emotional eating
· Many people medicate uncomfortable feelings with food to get through the Holidays. Holiday time spent with family can surely bring up many unresolved family issues that can generate strong emotions in you. If you can identify some of these issues prior to family gatherings, you can plan a strategy of what to say, or do should you be confronted. Rehearse these in your mind. You will be better prepared to manage the feelings they generate, and to set emotional boundaries.
· Emotional eating is also connected to the added stress of the Holidays, by adding more social obligations, financial pressures and time constraints.
· Learn how to set emotional boundaries, and set priorities. Relaxation and breathing techniques really help to center and restore you.
· Exercise, Exercise, and Exercise! Increasing your level of physical activity is the best stress reliever that I know. It stimulates feel-good chemicals in your brain, boosts your self esteem and makes you feel more in control of your life. Exercise also helps to regulate your appetite…and helps you burn off those extra calories!
· Holidays are when you want to look and feel your best.
Fill your cup with gratitude, and tell the people you love, that you love them! Celebrate the spirit of the season with good will.
May you be healthy and "well-thy"
Take care and be well,
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