I don’t know about you, but my calendar is full, which means lots of opportunities for more indulgent foods. Mindful eating can be a great tool to help guide you through these situations. With mindful eating, you are focused on the present moment. You use all of your senses to truly taste and savor every flavor. Mindfulness also involves noticing your thoughts or feelings without judgment, and frankly, we could all use a little less judgment during the holidays! Here are a few tips to help you navigate mindful eating at holiday parties
Practice mindfulness throughout the day
- Practicing mindfulness at non-meal times can help you be more mindful when you are eating as well
- Know that mindfulness doesn’t need to be complicated. Take a few deep breaths when you wake up, after you brush your teeth, while you are waiting for your coffee to brew or before you go to bed
- Get up and stretch periodically. Notice how your body feels before and after you stretch
Slow down
- Give yourself permission to say no to events you don’t feel like attending
- Take some time off of social media and your phone so you can be fully present at each party
- Take a stroll through the food table at the party and see what’s there before getting your plate
Savor your favorite holiday foods and flavors
- Think about what you look forward to this time of year
- Try to sit down and really savor those flavors
- Slow down when you are eating, chewing each bite to taste every flavor
It can feel like a rush to fit in all of the holiday parties and seasonal foods before the end of the year. Slow down and take your time to enjoy each party and party food!