Holiday coping tips

Wow, its hard to think about just how fast the year has gone. There have been so many things that have changed for me this year and I couldn't be more grateful for them but if I am honest, like most people with eating disorders, I am a little worried about the holidays. The holidays means lots and lots of food and that makes me worry about whether or not I can stay strong during this season. Here are some coping tips for those of you who celebrate Thanksgiving and/or Christmas....it's coming soon!!!!!!!



Food Coping Tips For Thanksgiving and Christmas!

1. Talk to someone- If you have worries about coping during these holidays then talk to someone that knows about your struggles and they will be able to support you. If you talk to your parents then they may even be able to alter some things to make you feel more comfortable.
2. Make sure you surround yourself with the people that keep you positive- In the holidays it is quite easy to get caught up with people who don't actually have your best interests at heart or people who make you feel bad (even if they don't mean to). 
3. Ask someone to be your food buddy- A family member could be someone who helps you to manage your eating disorder and can support you through all of the bad times. This food buddy can help you to ensure that your meals stay healthy which will keep you in a good frame of mind.
4. Don't forget "the reason for the season"- It can be very hard to remember what thanksgiving and Christmas is all about when your mind is preoccupied with food. remember that they are both positive times of the year when you can draw the positivity from others. I enjoy it so much when people are positive around me as it makes me feel a lot better. It is good to take your mind off of these issues.
5. Make time to relax- This time of year is where stress levels really hit their heights. There are so many events to attend, things to do, people to please etc. Just remember that you should be your priority. Its okay to say no to some things and just take some time to relax and figure out what you are going to do that way you don't feel too "snowed under".
6. Time-out- make sure that you plan some time regularly where you can have a little time out from everyone and their expectations. Sometimes it can be very tiring to make sure that you stay completely string for people during the holidays so to ensure that this doesn't effect your recovery, make sure that you dedicate some 'me-time'.
7. Stay calm:

- sit as tall as possible with your feet fat on the floor, and try to take your mind off the stressful - situation or things that are going on around you
- take a slow deep breath in while counting to 3
- hold your breath for a count of 3
- exhale slowly while counting to 3
- repeat 3 times (or as many as needed)

Remember to believe in yourself and stay strong over this holiday season. 

Keep smiling.

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