Holiday Food Memories

Holiday foods often bring back special memories—baking cookies with siblings, helping your mom with the turkey, or ending the day with a cozy cup of hot chocolate. These moments are tied to joy, love, and connection.

If you’re struggling with disordered eating, it can be tough to fully embrace these traditions, especially if they involve fear foods. But the truth is, these activities are about so much more than the food—they’re about spending time with the people you care about and creating new memories together.

Let’s now explore some tips to help you rediscover the joy in these moments and truly embrace the holiday season.

The holidays are filled with delicious foods—everything from appetizers to desserts. It’s a season where people come together to enjoy great meals and even better company. But the magic of this time goes beyond the food itself. When you cook or bake with someone you care about, you’re not just making treats—you’re strengthening your bond and building meaningful connections.

It doesn’t have to be a family member if that doesn’t feel right for you. What matters most is sharing the experience with someone you trust, someone who supports you unconditionally. This shared activity not only provides emotional comfort but also shifts the focus away from any food-related worries and toward the joy of creating something together.

You can make it even more enjoyable by adding a festive touch—play your favorite holiday songs or have a beloved Christmas movie on in the background. These small additions bring a sense of fun and celebration, helping you connect with loved ones, find joy in the moment, and create memories you’ll treasure for years to come.

If there’s a traditional dish that brings back fond memories, consider starting with that. Whether it’s gingerbread cookies or green bean casserole, try making them again with a trusted friend or family member. This can help you rediscover the joy of the tradition while having support along the way. Don’t be afraid to get creative! If you feel the need to adjust the recipe to make it more comfortable and less overwhelming, feel free to make changes that suit your current needs.

Take it easy and go at your own pace. If cooking or baking doesn’t feel right, no worries—there are other fun ways to get involved. You can invite your loved ones to decorate cookies or build gingerbread houses together. It’s a great way to be creative, chat, and reminisce about past holidays. This shifts the focus from the food to the special moments you’re creating with those you care about.

And remember, not all holiday traditions are about food! For anyone with an eating disorder, just being present can be tough. But if your holiday traditions include activities like sledding, ice skating, making ornaments, having a cozy movie marathon, or even driving around to see Christmas lights, embrace those moments. It’s about enjoying time with your loved ones and making happy memories together.

Even though you’re cooking or participating in a holiday activity, the real magic of traditions lies in the memories you create with the people you love—sharing laughter, learning new things about each other, or even burning the pie! What matters most is that you’re making stories and memories together that will last a lifetime.  When you focus on the people around you, you’ll naturally begin to build a healthier, more positive relationship with food, one that’s filled with warmth, gratitude, and meaningful experiences.