Here we are, smack-dab in the middle of holiday season. Maybe the holiday you celebrate has passed already, and all you have left is New Years.  Or maybe it hasn't happened yet.  Either way, we're not done yet!

I don't have to tell you that the holidays can be a really tough time of year for people who struggle with food.  This time of year can feel like a food minefield that's nearly impossible to navigate.  

I think there are few reasons for this.  First off, food is everywhere right now.  It's hard to resist.  And some of it is food that you only get this time of year, so there's a real pull to dive in.  

In addition to that, the holidays can be really stressful.  It just seems like there's too much to do, and not enough time to do it.  From all of the expectations we put on ourselves to all of the expectations that others put on us, it can feel really overwhelming.

And finally, if this time of year brings up difficult emotions for many of us.  Maybe family gatherings are difficult to attend.  Or you're feeling isolated.  Or you're remembering loved ones who are no longer here.  Yes, lots of strong emotions are brought up this time of year.   

So if you're someone who turns to food to manage stress, comfort yourself, or distract from painful emotions, this is a tough time of year, to be sure.

But as difficult as it may be, it's not impossible.  And here's where IFS can be really helpful.  

On this week's podcast, we're talking about why this time of year can be so difficult in terms of food and how to navigate it with the help of IFS.  Some of what we're talking about is:

• Remembering that the parts that lead us to food are trying to help us!

• Maintaining realistic expectations for ourselves

• Setting boundaries

• The need for curiosity and compassion

• Regularly checking in with parts

We're almost across the finish line!  You got this!  But if you need a little extra help, take a listen to this week's podcast!

And if you're really curious about your own eating system and/or helping your clients with theirs, I have some exciting groups for you! 

• IFS and the Eating System Master Class 

• Food and Body Freedom 

Where to find me:

Therapy website (for therapists and other helping professionals):  drkimdaniels.com

Coaching website (for non-therapists):  yourweightisnotyourworth.com

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