A Clean Thanksgiving This Year

​Each year, the holidays offer a perfect time to gather with loved ones and spend time celebrating the season, enjoying the weather, and of course, eating.  It’s like we think have license to overeat, overdrink and overindulge this time of year. Even nature agrees. This is the time to spend more time indoors, pack on some weight and hibernate for the winter. It’s just what we do, right?

​Well, what if we did it a little differently this year? Many of us tend to make it all about the food. Each social event is centered around what kind of food will be there? Or, oh I better wait to start being healthier until after this event/vacation/holiday, etc. What if instead of making it all about the food and drinks, we made it more about doing things that are good for us? I’m talking about not giving in to the potential stress of travel, excessive social activities, hustle and bustle and frantic energy and instead, taking time to slow down and watch some Christmas movies, exercising, eating healthy, and maybe even meditating. When we are taking care of ourselves, we feel better. Why not continue the things that make us feel good rather than indulge in the things that ultimately make us feel bad even though they are so good in the moment?

​What if we decided to start now and just take baby steps? What if we made Thanksgiving a little cleaner this year? I’m not saying to give up the sweet potato soufflé or the pecan pie, but what I am advocating is to bring in something clean and yummy. When I work with clients, I focus on the method of crowding out, which means that I don’t advise deprivation, because that never seems to work, but we “crowd out” the not so healthy foods in favor of those clean and nourishing foods that make us feel so good. So what are some things you could bring to Thanksgiving that could really make a positive difference?

• Roasted Green Beans with Lemon and Garlic
• Cauliflower Stuffing
• Quinoa Salad with cucumbers, bell peppers, onion and cilantro
• Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Sweet Potato
• A Large Kale Salad with Cranberries and Walnuts
• Sweet Potato and Cauliflower Mashed Potatoes
• Maple Roasted Beets and Carrots
• Go Vegetarian: Tofurkey or Seitan Turkey Roast
• Wild Rice and Mushroom Casserole
• Brussels Sprout, Quinoa and Cranberry Salad

​Just think about it. You might be surprised at the reaction you receive. There may be other people who are straight up grateful that you took some time and effort to bring something clean this year.
 
Wishing you a beautiful, blessed, and joyful Thanksgiving!