Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays to be with family and recount the blessings god has given us! And let’s face it, it’s also about the incredible meal we get to share with those we love!

Yep- that’s right, it’s ok to enjoy the food- every bite, even if it’s covered in butter, sugar, and sauces you can only imagine the calorie content!

Every year, we have a few special days we get to sit and enjoy fellowship around the table on a holiday, so why waste part of your mental capacity worrying about how much you just ate!?

Sure, it’s great to bring a healthy dish to pass (hey Dashing Dish), and it is wise to listen to your body. But it’s not only ok - it’s also healthy to let the thoughts about what you did or didn’t eat GO- and focus on the people, the memories being made, and the overall experience!

Life is all about balance, and having that piece of pie won’t tip the scales (literally or figuratively) in any direction.

What can be harmful, however, is food guilt, or any emotional bondage to food for that matter. In fact, I believe it is more unhealthy than any food itself!

Just to be clear, this isn’t an invitation to binge, and lose touch with your body’s hunger signals entirely…In fact, letting go of food guilt and "rules" will actually prevent all-or-nothing behaviors!

This Thanksgiving, and every day- let the food guilt go! This is what makes a lifestyle different than a diet! Balance, enjoyment, and freedom!

So whether it’s a second helping of mashed potatoes, or pie, just be sure to do one thing- Enjoy!