“Enjoying a healthy Thanksgiving is about making mindful choices throughout the day.”
Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday for connecting with family and enjoying delicious meals, but it can also be a time when we neglect our health. At the Integrative Health Practitioner Institute, we believe balance is key to fully enjoying this day. With a few mindful choices, you can maintain a healthy Thanksgiving while celebrating. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the day—from morning to night—helping you stay active, eat well, and embrace gratitude.
1. Start Your Day with a Morning Fasted Walk
To begin with, a fasted, morning walk is a simple way to set a healthy tone for your Thanksgiving. When you walk in a fasted state, your body uses stored glycogen (a form of glucose stored in your muscles and liver) for energy. Once those glycogen stores are depleted, the body starts burning fat, which can support healthy weight management. Not only does walking in a fasted state help utilize stored glucose, but it also enhances your mood and reduces stress. For this reason, try taking a 20- to 30-minute walk before breakfast to boost energy levels. Additionally, this peaceful time allows you to reflect on the day ahead, preparing your mind for the celebration. These simple yet effective practices are among the many insights that can help you lead a healthier lifestyle, a focus of our comprehensive IHP Health Coaching Certification programs.
2. Prepare an Organic, Whole Food Healthy Thanksgiving Meal
Next, focus on preparing a healthy, organic, whole food Thanksgiving meal. Eating nutrient-dense, organic foods can keep you feeling energized and satisfied.
Try including:
- Pasture-raised baked turkey, for lean protein.
- Organic baked sweet potatoes, loaded with fiber and vitamins.
- Steamed organic green beans and broccoli, rich in antioxidants.
- A fresh organic salad made with radishes, tomatoes, cucumbers, a squeeze of lemon, and a drizzle of organic olive oil for a light dressing.
- A warm, comforting bowl of butternut squash or pumpkin soup, both rich in vitamins A and C.
- For dessert, a healthy twist on apple strudel, made with organic apples and oats.
Eating organic and pasture-raised foods not only helps you stay healthy but also ensures you avoid harmful toxins. As a result, you’ll feel nourished and ready to enjoy the day fully.
3. Practice Gratitude Before Your Healthy Thanksgiving Meal
Before you dive into your delicious meal, take a moment to practice gratitude. Expressing thanks for your gifts and the people around you has been shown to improve emotional well-being. After all, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks, and gratitude has measurable health benefits—lowering stress, boosting happiness, and even improving sleep. Not only that, but sharing your gratitude with loved ones strengthens relationships.
4. Take a Walk After Your Healthy Thanksgiving Dinner with Family
After enjoying your meal, take another walk—this time with family. Walking after dinner aids digestion, stabilizes blood sugar levels, and reduces post-meal fatigue. Besides the health benefits, it’s also a great opportunity to bond with your loved ones. Whether young or old, everyone can enjoy the fresh air and quality time together. Indeed, this simple activity can be a meaningful part of your healthy Thanksgiving tradition.
5. Laugh and Connect with Loved Ones
After your walk, find time to laugh and connect with your family and friends to enhance your healthy Thanksgiving day. In fact, laughter is a powerful stress reliever, and staying connected with loved ones is crucial for emotional well-being. According to Blue Zones research, communities with strong social ties experience longer and healthier lives. So, spend time sharing stories, laughing together, and strengthening those bonds that are vital for happiness and longevity.
6. Don’t Stress—Enjoy the Day
Above all, remember that a healthy Thanksgiving is about enjoyment. Try not to stress over creating the perfect day. Perfection is never the goal when it comes to your health journey. Allowing yourself to enjoy a dish you wouldn’t normally eat can enrich your Thanksgiving experience. As long as there are no allergies to the ingredients, embracing this flexibility can help you cultivate a healthier relationship with food. It’s important to savor these moments, knowing that one indulgence won’t derail your progress.
7. Wind Down and Rest After Your Healthy Thanksgiving Day
Finally, as the day comes to a close, wind down and rest. Getting a good night’s sleep is essential, especially after a busy day. Enjoy some quiet time before bed to help your body and mind relax. As a result, you’ll wake up feeling refreshed and ready for the days ahead.
In conclusion, enjoying a healthy Thanksgiving is about making mindful choices throughout the day. By starting with light exercise, eating organic foods, practicing gratitude, and taking time to relax, you can feel your best while celebrating this special holiday.
If you’re ready to learn more about living a balanced and healthy lifestyle, consider enrolling in our IHP Health Coaching Certifications. At the Integrative Health Practitioner Institute, we provide comprehensive training to help you guide others toward optimal wellness. Schedule a call with our Admissions Team today to start your journey to a healthier life and discover how you can make a lasting impact on the lives of others. We hope you and your family enjoy a happy and a healthy Thanksgiving!
