Nutrition by Dawn - Blog

I love getting to talk to women about their health journeys, and I’ve heard a lot this year about struggles with eating mindfully. Whether it’s stress eating or snacking while stuck in the house, 2020 has posed challenges for those trying to reach health goals. 

This concern looms even larger when paired with the holidays. Between huge feasts and traditional recipes that aren’t exactly healthy, it can be really difficult to stay on track during the holiday season. 

Don’t let food be a source of stress during the holiday season! We have enough stress in our lives these days. I have two tips for getting through the holidays with your sanity and waistline still intact—and even have some fun while doing it.

This season, our actions are all about mindfulness. 

1. Be Aware of What You’re Eating

To eat mindfully means to be aware of what you are putting into your mouth and not just snacking here and there. It’s important to note that that doesn’t mean being restrictive with your eating, but rather just thinking through whether you really want the snack in front of you, or if you’re eating it just because it’s there. 

2. Consider How Much You Truly Want 

While you’re considering whether you really want the dish in front of you, also think about how much you want. Personally, I love chocolate, but I really just need a few bites of some great quality chocolate. Being aware that a little bit of great chocolate is more satisfying to me than a lot of lesser quality chocolate helps me to indulge less, but have the same level of satisfaction. 

I could go on and on about this subject, but I really feel that these two simple tips can be revolutionary to a lot of us. Previous holidays may have looked like... having seconds with every meal or constantly having a treat on hand, but the truth is that mindful eating will help you to enjoy those dishes you really love without feeling like you’re sacrificing all that hard work you put in during the rest of the year. 

My challenge to you is to not restrict yourself, but to be intentional and aware of what you’re eating. If you do, you’ll wake up on New Year’s Day feeling fabulous and even happier for not having overindulged this holiday season. 

What is your favorite way to indulge during the holidays? Let me know in the comments!