I just got back from the battlefield of markets on Thanksgiving week. It wasn’t pretty, but I survived. I only got hit twice by someone’s elbow and reckless carts, and only one person ran off with my cart, and the cashier wasn’t having an anxiety attack. I’m good. Here are some last minute tips for Thanksgiving, so you won’t ruin your health, gain weight, or pull out your hair.

 

 

Have a List
Before you go shopping, have a list and only pursue those items at the store. Having a list will help you get in and out fast. The last thing you want to do is go down every aisle; fighting everyone else, looking, searching, and getting agitated. Also, park away from the crowd and walk. Don’t need to waste time and energy circling for the 10 spaces by the store’s door with everybody else. You’ll avoid the parking lot mess and get some exercise.

 

 

 

Don’t Over Salt or Sugar Your Food.
Be stingy with salt (preferably use kosher and/or sea salt) and compliment with spices such as cayenne, cumin, pepper, hot sauce, etc. Instead of using white sugar, use natural sweeteners such as onions and beets, and honey, agave, maple syrup, and coconut sugar.

 

 

 

Load Up on Veggies First: Start your meal with veggie dishes, soups, salad, etc, before meat, stuffing, and the breads. The vegetables will fill you up and give your body the nutrients it needs to fight all the bad stuff on the way. Hopefully, there won’t be too much.

 

 

Have Fruits Before and/or with Your Dessert:
Have some fruits, such as berries, oranges, kiwis, apples before or with your dessert. Fruits are a tasty and nutritious compliment to any desserts, and it has natural juices to keep you hydrated, and you’ll avoid the extra calories you don’t ever need just from sugary desserts.

 

 

Drink Tea After a Meal
Organic teas such as green tea, oolong, or jasmine teas help settle the food in the stomach, cut the grease, and relax and soothe your body.

 

Take a Walk After the Meal
Once your meal is over; take a walk with your family, friends, and dogs. It will help with digestion, circulation, and keep your heart healthy, not to mention burn a few calories, and it’s fun.

 

 

When You’re Alone
A few times in my life, I found myself alone on Thanksgiving. Instead of moping around the house feeling sorry for myself, I went to volunteer at a homeless and an animal shelter, and it did wonders for my weary and broken heart. Whether it is by choice or not, do what you have to do, but volunteer somewhere for a few hours and you’ll discover that you’re never really alone and there are others who are more alone, and you have the ability to ease their pain and your own.

 

 

Breath Always
Don’t forget to breathe before, during, and after. You’ll do great!

 

 

Whatever you do, please be mindful and kind and have a wonderful and enjoyable Thanksgiving!