Holidays Without Pressure?
The Secret Is What You Choose to Value
For many of us, it’s a special time – a moment to slow down a little and spend time with the people who matter most. It’s a kind of time that’s hard to compare to anything else.
And yet, this season often comes with a lot of pressure. Everything needs to be done. The food has to be perfect. We’re expected to look and feel a certain way. In all of this, it’s easy to forget that the holidays aren’t a competition or a test – they’re about being together.
Food Matters, But People Matter More
Food is an important part of tradition. It brings back memories and emotions. For many of us, it’s the taste of childhood and family gatherings. But it’s worth remembering that the holidays aren’t made only by what’s on the table – they’re made by the people sitting around it.
I especially want to say this to anyone who, for health reasons, can’t enjoy everything that’s being served. If you’re dealing with health issues, allergies, or you’re in the middle of treatment, that doesn’t take away from the holidays. Even if your plate looks different, you’re still very much part of this time. You can still laugh, talk, and enjoy being together.
Balance and Presence Over Perfection
You don’t need to suffer just because “it’s the holidays and I can’t eat this.”
A healthy approach means taking care of yourself without guilt and without stepping away from shared moments. You can sit at the table, enjoy the time together, and still choose what works best for you.
At the same time, it’s worth remembering that a few days over the holidays don’t define your health, your body, or your habits for the year ahead. So unless you’re following a strict diet for medical reasons, you don’t need to deny yourself everything that doesn’t fit the idea of a “perfect” healthy diet 🙂 Balance isn’t about getting it right every time – it’s about finding your way back without stress or self-criticism.
So remember – things may not be perfect or go exactly to plan.
But if there’s presence, kindness, and shared laughter, that’s more than enough.
That’s what I wish for you this holiday season: closeness, calm, and joy in being together – regardless of whether the windows are washed or what’s on your plate 😊
Wishing you a very happy Christmas!
Natalia