by Aimee Wojtowecz
This week brings the conclusion of our Navigating a Healthy Holiday series! Let’s take a quick second to recap tips 1-4.
- Remember your why
- Stay consistent
- Plan ahead
- Use the plate method
#5 The last tip is STAYING MINDFUL!
We know that highly restrictive diets or mindsets are not sustainable. This often leads to the yo-yo dieting we often hear about.
Why does this happen?
If you have kids or remember being one, do you remember when you were told you can’t do something or have something?
Do you also remember hyper-focusing on that?
It’s the same thing. When we tell ourselves we can’t have something like pie, cookies, or that blanket statement of having “zero sugar”, we start to think more about the cravings until we finally succumb which often looks like overconsuming.
Do you want a treat? Great!
Have it, savor it, and then move on.
Eating mindfully has a multitude of benefits. By slowing down you have time to examine and change your relationship with food—for example, helping you to notice when you turn to food for reasons other than hunger. You may also derive greater pleasure from the food you eat, as you learn to slow down and more fully appreciate your meals and snacks.
While mindfulness isn’t for everyone, many people find that by eating this way, even for just a few meals a week, you can become more attuned to your body. This can help you to avoid overeating, make it easier to change your dietary habits for the better, and enjoy the improved well-being that comes with a healthier diet.
Pro tips:
- Start with a mindful practice: Before you begin your meal, take a few slow, deep breaths to become present and aware of your body and its sensations.
- Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body’s cues and feelings of fullness. Eating slowly allows your body to process the food and recognize when it is no longer hungry.
This is a season of sweets and treats. Instead of feeling deprived that you can’t have something then overeating later, have a little bit then move on. It’s ok to enjoy a treat!
With following these tips hopefully you will feel more confident navigating the holidays!