Thanksgiving is quickly approaching, which can bring up many different emotions. Unique to Thanksgiving is the emphasis on showing gratitude. However, it is commonplace and even encouraged in our society to scrutinize and desire change before we focus on gratitude, especially regarding physical appearance. So, it is essential to intentionally take the time to make gratitude for your body around Thanksgiving and beyond.
By: Ellen Coghlan
Gratitude is important in recovery and healing, and research shows the benefits of having a gratitude practice. Studies have found that those who engage in gratitude practices have higher levels of happiness, improved relationships, lower depression and anxiety, increased resilience, and overall well-being.
We may think of things we are thankful for, such as friends, family, and a warm place to sleep every night. However, we often overlook giving thanks to ourselves and our bodies. Here are five ways to thank your body this holiday season and beyond.
Pick 3-5 Body Parts and Name Something Specific Each Allows You to Do.
Aim for neutrality with these observations. This is not about “loving” your body but instead about exploring things your body allows you to do or achieve. For example:
- Thank you, left arm, for allowing me to hold my dog.
- Thank you, belly, for expanding and contracting to allow me to breathe fresh air.
- Thank you, fingers, for allowing me to text “I love you” to those in my life.
Add One New Caring Act into Your Routine Each Week.
This could look different for everyone, but a caring act for your body might be taking a long bath, reading a new book, stretching before bed, or taking yourself on a solo date to get a massage. It could also be prioritizing a nourishing breakfast each morning or wrapping your arms around yourself and embracing your body in a hug for 30 seconds. There are many other options; pick one that speaks to you and implement it regularly.
Write a Thank You Letter.
Sit down and write a thank you letter to yourself. Write all the things you have done that you are grateful for and that you and your body made possible. Recount all the things you have been able to do thanks to your body and mind. You could put this letter in an envelope and return to it anytime you are having a low body image day.
Do a Body Scan Meditation.
Do a head-to-toe body scan, relaxing your muscles and breathing into areas of tension. This practice can help you reconnect with your body and mind. It can support you in becoming aware of where you are holding stress and discomfort. Check out this guided option from New York Presbyterian.
Nourish Your Body.
This applies year-round, but holidays can bring up added stressors around food. On Thanksgiving or a holiday gathering, people are tempted to “save up” on food when they know a big meal is coming later in the day. Continue to nourish your body no matter what happened in the past or is coming up currently. Be present with yourself and your body, and commit to continue nourishing yourself to live your life to the fullest.
Holidays and the end of the year can sometimes feel like a whirlwind. This may be true, but you still have the power to be present and actively work on getting through the holiday season in a healthy and empowering way. Take your Thanksgiving gratitude to the next level by implementing these practices and prioritizing yourself, thus allowing you to show up for yourself and others more genuinely and authentically.
At BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™, our compassionate, highly skilled team of clinicians is trained in diagnosing and treating the spectrum of eating disorders, including anorexia, bulimia, binge eating disorder, compulsive overeating, and other disordered eating and body image issues.
While the holidays are supposed to be a time of togetherness, tradition, and merriment, it can feel stressful and isolating for those with an eating disorder. Let BALANCE help you navigate the holidays and set the stage for lasting recovery. Our 12-day winter intensive program can help you jump-start your recovery. Our exclusive winter eating disorder treatment program fits conveniently within your winter break schedule, allowing you to invest in transformative care. Connect with our admissions team and learn more about our 12-day winter intensive program here.
Looking for eating disorder treatment programs or services in the New York City area? Learn more about our options at BALANCE eating disorder treatment center™ here or contact us here.
This post was written by BALANCE Dietetic Intern, Ellen Coghlan (she/her).
Ellen is currently in her second year of graduate school at Hunter College pursuing a M.S in Nutrition. Ellen decided to switch careers and go back to school in hopes of working with those recovering from eating disorders after her own personal experience. She is passionate about helping empower others to live their most full, joyful lives. Outside school and work, Ellen enjoys podcasts, dinner with friends, and loud music in the kitchen.
