Thanksgiving is undoubtedly going to look a little different this year, but we can all agree that we’ll be chowing down per usual, even if we’re just at home with our partner or pets. Thanksgiving is a holiday centered around rich, indulgent meals and quality time with your loved ones. But no matter how big or small your celebration is this year, why not try incorporating some healthy traditions that will have you feeling good come the day after. Here are some ideas to help you create a wellness-forward Thanksgiving without giving up the parts you love.
Work out as a family
I have a lot of friends who kick off Thanksgiving morning with a sunrise hike. If you live somewhere where the weather permits, why not get out and enjoy some fresh air first thing in the morning as a family? Go for a hike, a long walk with the dog or a bike ride together to get your blood flowing and those endorphins ready to feast later in the afternoon.
Make a crudité spread
Chop up a huge variety of veggies and make a crudité platter before you even start cooking so everyone has something to nibble on throughout the day. Even if you indulge later on during the Thanksgiving feast, at least you’ll have given your body some healthy nutrients earlier in the day.
Meditate together
Suggest a group guided meditation with your loved ones to kick off your festivities. Use an app like Headspace or Calm to make it an easy, enjoyable ritual that everyone can partake in together. It doesn’t have to be long—shoot for 10 minutes or so of guided group meditation to help everyone get in a zen-like mindset for the feast.
Provide an infused water bar
Whether or not alcohol is involved, it’s always a good idea to hydrate by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. If you’re hosting, make it fun by creating an infused water bar. Make a variety of different fruit or floral-infused waters that will encourage your guests to make sure they’re following every cocktail up with 8 ounces of H20.
Make some simple swaps
If you can, try switching out some heavier, less healthy ingredients for a more wellness-centric alternative.
- Extra-virgin olive oil instead of butter
- Avocado instead of butter, oil or mayonnaise
- Bananas instead of sugar (when baking)
- Nonfat Greek yogurt instead of sour cream or mayonnaise
- Pecans or almonds instead of croutons
Send everyone off with leftovers as a parting gift
When you make so much food for your Thanksgiving feast, you’re undoubtedly left with a bunch of leftovers. By the time you’ve finished eating the leftovers, you’ve really had three-plus Thanksgiving dinners over the course of a few days. If you’re looking for a healthy Thanksgiving this year, leave the leftovers for someone else! Plan ahead by providing containers that your guests can fill up, take home and keep. You can buy some cute containers specifically for Thanksgiving leftovers here and here. When they’re this cute, your guests are basically leaving with a party favor!
Photos by Brooke Aliceon Photography. See more from our Organic Friendsgiving post.
