The holidays can be a beautiful mix of glitter, cozy vibes… and a whole lot of food and family stress. If you’re in eating disorder recovery, it’s totally normal for this time of year to feel messy. Here are three friendly reminders to help you stay supported while still enjoying the season:
- Keep your recovery rhythm (even if everything else is chaos)
Holiday schedules can be wild — late nights, travel, Aunt Susan wanting brunch at 10am and dessert at 10pm. Try to keep those regular meals and snacks rolling, even if the timing isn’t perfect. Flexibility is a skill in recovery. Nourishing your body consistently helps your brain handle everything else the day throws at you. Think of it as your anchor: food first, fun second. - Prep your boundaries like they’re part of the packing list
We all have that one relative who comments on bodies, diets, or “earning” dessert. You are allowed to protect your peace. Have a couple quick strategies in your back pocket — changing the subject, stepping outside for a breather, checking in with a support person, or simply saying, “We don’t talk about bodies.” Boundaries aren’t rude — they’re recovery tools. - Zoom out from the plate
ED thoughts love to shout: “This whole holiday is about what you eat!” Spoiler: it’s really not. Notice the good stuff — the candles, the music, the inside jokes, the people who make you feel safe. Food is part of the celebration, but it’s not the main character. You are.
And hey…
If you have a hard moment, that doesn’t mean you’re “going backwards.” It means you’re human, and the holidays are a lot. Reach out, reset, and keep going. Recovery isn’t about doing everything perfectly — it’s about showing up for yourself again and again.
You deserve to be here, to eat, to enjoy, and to feel included in every celebration. 💛
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