Implementing mindfulness into our everyday lives is a great way to increase our awareness, gratitude, and positivity. Practicing mindfulness allows us to feel grounded and present to overcome stressors and burdens.
Another great advantage of mindfulness is that it benefits your health and eating habits. As we approach the holiday season, it’s so easy to lose sight of healthy habits between stress and the influx of indulgent treats.
Here are some practical ways to approach mindful eating, to help you enjoy the holiday season without overeating.
Take Your Time
We often rush into our celebrations and get caught up in the chaos. By being present and appreciating the things around you, you can catch your breath and be intuitive about your meal.
As you sit down for your meal at your family gathering, stop and reflect on your company-take a brief moment to think something positive about each person at the table. Appreciate the decorations and family traditions surrounding your meal.
Enjoy how your food looks- maybe the gravy and turkey or the delectable pies and cakes. Enjoy this time during your meal and in between bites, savoring your food and respecting when you’re full.
You can set your limits without being deprived by paying particular attention to your body’s feelings.
Plan Ahead
If eating nutritiously is your goal, make sure there will be dishes that serve this purpose. If not, offer to bring your own. Fruit salads or winter veggie bakes are delicious and easy to complement a meal.
Choose to focus on foods that serve your body and your goals if there’s something on your plate that you don’t savor-skip it. Eating mindlessly is an unfulfilling and unnecessary habit.
Treat Yourself
If after your meal you want dessert, never deprive yourself. Assess how you feel: Are you too full or sluggish? Or do you truly crave something sweet? Deprivation can lead to binging or negative thinking- it’s better to treat yourself and celebrate the holidays while applying the same portion size and fullness rules.
Enjoying holiday delicacies is often a much-anticipated part of family traditions- if that is the case for you, embrace this happiness without stifling it! Nutrition is about a healthy balance, and being mindful of your delicious dessert can keep you on track for the future.
Mindfulness is an excellent tool for your lifestyle, especially when it comes to stress management and healthy habits. Using mindfulness as health motivation is a great way to practice mindfulness and reach your wellness goals. Use these tips to be present, healthy, and happy this holiday season.
