About a 3-minute read

As the holiday season twinkles into full swing, our thoughts often dance between festive lights and the daunting judgment of the scale. There's an enchanting array of treats and feasts that could rival any wizard's banquet – yes, even those at Hogwarts. Unfortunately, navigating our own judgement of what’s “naughty” and what’s “nice” leaves us feeling guilty, bloated, and worried about piling on extra pounds when all we want to do is enjoy a bit of holiday magic.

Speaking of magic, there was a time when I believed that Harry Potter's true superpower was his ability to say "No" to the endless parade of magical munchies. I mean, who could turn down a feast in the Great Hall?

But here's a little secret: You don't need a magic wand or even a magic spell to navigate the holiday table. It's about finding balance and joy in our choices, not just about watching the scale. This season, let's explore how to savor the delights of the holidays without feeling like we're adding chapters to "The Dark Arts of Overindulgence.”

The Basics of Wellness

Now, let's get down to the nuts and bolts - or the pumpkin pasties of it all – the basics. It's like building your own Hogwarts castle: you need a strong foundation before you can experience the real magic. Here are the seven horcruxes of health – destroy these, and you're well on your way to defeating the dark lord of unwellness:

1. Fresh, Whole Foods: Think of these as your potion ingredients. The right mix can brew up some incredible health benefits.

2. Eating with Satisfaction: Like Goldilocks, not too much, not too little, but just right.

3. Restful Sleep: Imagine Sleeping Beauty, but without the hundred-year commitment.

4. Intentional Movement: Whether it’s a Quidditch match or a stroll through the Forbidden Forest, keep that body moving.

5. Hydration: Water is the elixir of life – and no, butterbeer doesn’t count. 😉

6. Fresh Air: Get out of the dungeon, breathe in nature, and maybe find a few fantastic beasts along the way.

7. Stress Management: Less focus on Dark Arts, more time in the Room of Requirement. Find what works for you to keep stress at bay. (Need help? Coaching is a great option!)

Master these basics, and you're not just surviving the holiday season; you're thriving in it. And once you’ve learned to cast these “spells” with confidence, they’ll serve you every day of your life!

The Power of Mindfulness and Permission

One of the most powerful “spells” you can cast when temptations abound is to practice awareness and mindfulness no matter what you choose to eat. I once worked with a client who claimed that she was addicted to cookies, and that she was powerless around them. Cookies had become her Voldemort' (aka 'He-Who-Must-Not-Be-Eaten' and over time she had given them a power they didn’t deserve.

We were able to vanquish the cookie conundrum by starting with awareness - looking at when she felt compelled to eat them, how they made her feel, and especially by slowing down to savour them and then paying attention to how they made her feel.

It’s common to allow so-called “treat” foods to have power they don’t deserve. The real magic lies in taking responsibility for our choices, and making them consciously and mindfully. That’s the true way to strip away their dark magic.

Mindful eating is like getting access to the Elder Wand – it gives you control over your food choices. Savour each bite, relish the flavours, and you'll find that a small, well-enjoyed treat is more satisfying than a whole box of cookies eaten guiltily in the shadows.

Navigating the Holidays with Balance and Joy

The holidays are like a Yule Ball – a time of celebration, not stress. Here are a few Lumos spells to light your way:

• Plan Your Indulgences: Just like planning your holiday shopping, plan your treats. Look forward to them, enjoy them without guilt, and then get on with your life.

• Listen to Your Body: It's the best compass you have. If it says it’s full, listen. If it craves something sweet, find a small treat to satisfy it. If it’s a healthier option, great! If not, refer back to point 1 above.

• Enjoy the Company, Not Just the Food: Remember, the holidays are about connections, not just confections. What do you want to remember most about the holiday season? Chances are it’s not that chocolate-covered cherry, but being with people who help you feel merry. 🎄

As we wrap up our magical journey, remember that the holiday season is about joy and connection. It's a time to celebrate, not a time for guilt or stress over food. Embrace the season with a mindset of balance and mindfulness, and you'll find yourself enjoying every moment – and every bite – without the guilt.

And if you're looking for more charms and spells to navigate this festive season, join me at the "Ho Ho Hold the Guilt: Navigating Holiday Indulgences Like a Pro" workshop on December 14th. Let's make this holiday season one filled with joy, balance, and delightful indulgences!