With The Holidays Approaching...

The holidays are not always a happy time for everyone — some people don’t feel safe at home, some people have no home to go to, some people just don’t see the point, etc.. — I’d like to focus today on the food aspect of it all.

It is no secret that the fear of gaining weight over the time spent at home is more prominent than ever, but I truly don’t want the thoughts of food and body image to ruin this time with your loved ones. I want to remind you, that EVERYDAY — not just the holidays, that your body is deserving and in need of food.

I know this is easier said than done — trust me — but you and your mind are are deserving of peace. If you are struggling with the thoughts of eating I want you to have a game plan. Confide in someone you trust to take it easy on you & understand that this is a difficult time — to hold your hand through the process of the holidays. Make sure they understand your struggle and comfort you if the sight and smell of all the food gets a little too overwhelming. Remind yourself that you do NOT need to earn the right to eat, and trust that your mind can bring you to a safe space — reminding you that food is not the enemy. Refrain from any diet talk, and make sure the people you are around understand “weight loss” talk does more harm than good. Avoid conversations where people are commenting on what they eat, whether it be good or bad — it is ALL overwhelming. Do not let the pressure of “seeming better” affect feeling better. Talk it out, calm your mind, and comfort yourself best you can.

Engage in conversations that make you smile and laugh. Forget about the negative and be in the moment with the people you love and who love you!

Choose to TRY this holiday season — not force yourself, and quite literally biting off more than you can chew. Forcing yourself to eat may help your body, but damage your mind.

If it all gets too much — take the time to be by yourself because you know your struggles and body more than anyone.

I pray you all feel safe this season, and I hope you can enjoy the food and time with your family. — and if you can’t seem to get ahold of yourself and the pressure of eating around people is too much — KNOW that it is okay and that it is normal. I am proud of you none the less.

AND if you do gain weight over the holidays (or in general) THAT IS OKAY!! Gaining weight is in no way, shape, or form a bad thing — and the stereotype around it needs booted!!!

With all of that being said, I do hope you eat and enjoy food over the next few weeks. I hope you know I am truly wishing for full recoveries and learning to love our bodies know matter how it looks. You deserve to be kind to yourself. We get one body, and I want it to last…

If at all you need someone to talk with over the holidays, or someone who simply understands it - REACH OUT — I am always here to walk you through it.

Love Always,

Rachel <3