I Am Grateful For You!
As this is an issue focused on gratitude, I would like to first thank you for taking the time to check out the November edition of the Ripe Wellness newsletter. As mentioned in last month’s article, the fall is a time when we naturally turn inward, perhaps feeling more contemplative. Something about the chill in the air and the grey sky that turns darker increasingly quicker with each day seems to encourage that. With Thanksgiving right around the corner, tight about now seems like a perfect time to ponder- what does this holiday bring up within you?
For many of us, it conjures up childhood images of the paper turkeys, little black pilgrim hats and that great-aunt who always insisted on kissing us on both cheeks. As we grow older and become the organizers of our holiday events, maybe it means a time that is both exciting and stressful as we interact with family members we don't see regularly.
And, probably, it means a plate piled high with turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green bean casserole and that age-old combination of canned yams covered in toasted marshmallows, a favorite recipe of moms everywhere.
Oftentimes it is the sentimental value behind these dishes that make them taste even better. As families take a day to cook and enjoy a meal with each other, that good and loving energy is transferred into the food. Many of these foods are an annual treat. Some might say it can bring that much more nutrition into the food... so maybe Mom's yams and marshmallows aren't so bad, for one day.
However, the literal binging on Thanksgiving can really sour an otherwise sweet day. The cliché image of unbuttoned slacks and half-asleep guests need not be a reality. It is entirely possible to enjoy every thanksgiving treat without going to bed feeling bloated and regretful.
To begin with, holding off on food until the “main event” might seem like a good strategy, but all it will result in feeling utter desperation by the time you get there. This will raise the odds that you will over-indulge and inhale rather than savor. It is also valid to point out that some of us could use our full energy when dealing with certain relatives on Thanksgiving… Instead, have a snack with a little fat, protein and or slow-burning carbs before leaving the house. A good choice could be fruit or veggies with almond butter, a couple slices of sprouted-grain bread, or even a good quality protein shake.
When choosing your food, try taking a little bit of everything on the table. By sampling everything that appeals to you, you won’t feel deprived. You can always go back for seconds if you need more. Make sure to hit up the turkey (or tofurkey), whole grains and veggies to keep your blood sugar stable. Having some healthy stuff mixed in with the regular sides can help you “crowd out” too much the not-so-good for you fare. Consider adding a plate of dark leafy greens, a crisp raw salad or bowl of hearty whole grains, such as millet or brown rice. This will also help you break down and digest the richer foods.
Whether your Thanksgiving Day is a traditional and large affair or a simple meal with a couple friends, it is a great meal to practice eating with awareness and thanks. Take three deep breaths before beginning to eat. Chew slowly, really experiencing the taste and texture of each bite, which in turn enables proper digestion. Put your fork down in between bites. Thank your body for knowing exactly how to extract the nutrition and process all the foods you eat every day. You may want to shoot for at least one meal a day consumed this way when you try it. This eating style also revs up the metabolism!
Sometimes there can be pressure to keep eating from family members. If you know you are satisfied, it’s okay to let them know you are truly enjoyed their contribution, but you are finished eating now. A nice cup of tea after eating can be an equally pleasant way to be with others still dining. Expressing your appreciation for someone verbally is just as effective as having a third slice of the pie they baked because they know it’s your favorite.
It is often those who have prepared the meal that than get the task of cleaning it all up. Make sure those family members who usually get stuck in the kitchen gets a break and some fresh air. Show your thanks by pitching up so the works get finished faster and take a group walk around the neighborhood. If a large contingent of the family ends up passing out in front a TV watching football after a meal, maybe this is the year to start a casual pick-up game on the front yard before heading inside again.
Whether or not all these tips will be applicable to your holiday, I hope this day inspires you to recognize all that you are thankful for. We are the cusp of great change- the future looks exciting!
