Embracing Balance

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, family, and - of course - indulgent feasting. As we approach this holiday season, let's explore a fundamental truth about fitness that can empower us to enjoy Thanksgiving without compromising our health goals: "Consistency, Not Perfection, is Key." In my previous blog post I went over some of these points regarding the holiday season - from Halloween, through New Year's Day. So today's post is about Thanksgiving and you.

The Journey, Not the Destination

Fitness as a Lifestyle: Unlike fad diets, or temporary solutions, fitness is a lifelong journey. It's about creating sustainable habits that contribute to your overall well-being. The holiday season, including Thanksgiving, is a part of this journey, not a detour from it. (NOTE: While family is important, they often overstep boundaries that some people may not know they need for themselves. Comments on weight gain, loss, and pressuring others to eat or not eat is NOT acceptable. Some comments may also put down your efforts in being on your journey to a healthier, stronger body - Have someone you trust on standby to turn to in these moments, and understand that it IS okay to set your boundaries and protect them!)

Savor the Moments, Savor the Bites

Mindful Indulgence: Thanksgiving is a time to relish in the joy of good company and delightful dishes. It's not about deprivation or guilt, it's about savoring each moment and bite. For most of us, this is the only time we see many of our family members so Instead of fixating on the calorie count, focus on the experience—create memories with your loved ones and enjoy the flavors of the season.

The Power of Consistency

Small Actions, Big Impact: Consistency is the unsung hero of fitness. It's not about perfection in every workout or every meal, it's about making positive choices regularly. This Thanksgiving, consider incorporating small, achievable fitness activities into your day. It could be a post-feast stroll, a quick at-home workout, or practicing mindfulness in your eating habits. Not able to get to the gym or go for a stroll, but still need to step away? Try the World's Greatest Stretch followed by a deep overhead stretch. Focus on your breathing and take your time; when you're finished you will feel more relaxed and mentally clearer!

Progress Over Perfection

Celebrate Your Journey: Fitness is a dynamic process, not a rigid set of rules. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and acknowledge that occasional indulgence is a natural part of a balanced lifestyle. Thanksgiving is a day of celebration, and embracing it doesn't negate your dedication to your fitness goals.

Finding Balance

Tailoring Your Approach: Every individual's journey is unique. Finding balance means aligning your fitness routine with your personal values and the spirit of the occasion. I personally try to get in some form of exercise daily while visiting with family, so that on the days I can't because of the chaos of Thanksgiving day, I know it's okay because I'll be back to my routine by the end of the weekend anyway. As for balancing food... Well I have a rule. No third plate for the main meal, and no seconds for desserts. In fact, my first plate is small bite-sized portions of each item of the feast, and then my second plate consists of portioned sizes of my favorites. For dessert I have two routes; route 1 - tiny portions of several desserts, and route 2 - a single serving of a dessert.

Share Your Thanksgiving Fitness Approach

Community Insights: Engage with the Bridging Wellness community! Share your strategies for maintaining consistency during Thanksgiving or ask me for advice. By exchanging insights, we can inspire and support one another on our fitness journeys.

In closing, let's remember that Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful for our bodies and the ability to make positive choices. By embracing the truth that consistency, not perfection, is key, we can enjoy the holiday season while staying true to our health and wellness goals.

Happy Thanksgiving, Bridging Wellness community!