7 Gentle Holiday Reminders from an Eating Disorder Dietitian
The holiday season is such a mix of joy and, let’s be honest, some real challenges too. There’s so much going on—from social events and holiday foods to all the expectations that seem to pile up. It’s okay if it feels a bit much sometimes!
Here’s a list of gentle reminders to help you keep mental health and eating disorder recovery in focus so you can navigate the season with a little more peace.
Keep Eating Regularly
Sticking to regular meals and snacks is really important, especially with all the holiday busyness. Even if routines get a little scrambled, try to keep nourishing yourself to stay energized. Skipping meals can sneakily bring back disordered eating thoughts and ramp up anxiety. Just because the food is festive doesn’t mean your body needs any less fuel.
Rest Up When You Need It
Holiday activities are fun, but they can wear you out. Make it a priority to get enough sleep and don’t hesitate to take breaks if you need them during the day. Taking time to recharge isn’t selfish—it’s self-care!
Set Boundaries Where You Need Them
Boundaries can be lifesavers. You don’t have to say “yes” to every invitation or meet everyone’s expectations. If it’s feeling like too much, it’s completely okay to say no. Taking care of your mental space is actually a great gift to yourself.
Make Time for Activities You Enjoy
Holidays should be about things that make you happy, too. Whether it’s baking, watching a favorite movie, grabbing some quiet time, or whatever helps you relax, lean into it. Joy can be simple!
No Pressure to Buy Gifts
Gift-giving can add a lot of stress, especially if it starts feeling like a requirement. Remember, your worth has nothing to do with how much you spend. Thoughtful gestures and time together matter so much more.
Forget the “Work It Off” Mentality
The pressure to “work off” holiday food is everywhere, but it’s an unhealthy mindset. Listen to your body and do what feels good, without any obligation to “earn” or “burn off” food. Movement should feel enjoyable, not like punishment.
Stay Grounded in What Matters
Take a little time to reflect on what matters most to you, and let those values guide you. Staying connected to your own values can help you navigate the season feeling a little more at peace.
In a Nutshell
The holidays can be a lot, but by keeping these reminders in mind, you’re setting yourself up for a more balanced, fulfilling experience. Prioritize your well-being, say no when you need to, and lean into the things that make you feel good. Here’s to a season filled with joy, connection, and self-care—happy holidays!
Contact Emilee
Emilee Young is an eating disorder dietitian and founder of Embrace Nutrition Counseling. She supports all ages and genders in healing their relationship with food and embracing their natural body size. She specializes in binge eating disorder and works from a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating framework.
Embrace Nutrition Counseling provides virtual nutrition counseling to residents in Virginia, DC, and Maryland. Including Virginia Beach, Roanoke, Blacksburg, Charlottesville, and Richmond Virginia.
Services offered include support for:
Eating disorders
Disordered Eating
Body Image Concerns
Eating challenges related to anxiety, depression, and trauma
Prenatal and Postpartum Nutrition
