The mince tarts are in the bakeries, the invites have started flowing, the champagne is ready to pop and the potatoes are being grated, ready to be smothered in oil. Hooray! The festive season is here!
The smell of gingerbread and mince pies fills the air, carols can be heard all around and the Christmas functions are in full swing.
How do we let our taste buds enjoy the festive season without it stressing us out?
Balance your plate (when you can)
Whether you are at home or a party, check out the veggies and fruits first. What takes your fancy? When asked to bring a plate, think about bringing a salad, vegetable dish or fruit platter or veggie xmas tree to add colour at the party. When catering at home, try to include have lots of colourful things alongside the ‘treats’ (inspiration here).
For you children, offer a snack of fruits or veggies (and other foods) sometime before leaving for the party. Then at the party, leave them be (no need to say, get some veggies or have some fruit first). Let them choose from what’s on offer without your judgment.
Give yourself permission…what do you feel like?
For most of us, gone are the days of feast and famine. Life is a constant feast, especially at Christmas time. So with all the delicious festive foods around, take a look and have a think about what you feel like? Give yourself permission to eat and enjoy.
Take a moment to think…
What do you feel like eating? What are your very favourite treats? What is looking really appealing? It is okay, if there is multiple things that take your fancy.
Mindful eating, can be a mere thought, a breath to decide if you feel like eating and what? (and whilst eating, tuning into your body and listening to when it feels satisfied).
Eat slowly and enjoy
Try to limit distractions (like TV and phones) so you can concentrate on eating. Eating slowly helps you savour the flavours more but also helps you to listen to your body’s hunger and fullness signals.
Take a breath, a moment before you start eating to appreciate the food – how it looks, how it smells, the people you might be enjoying it with. Sip your wine slowly, swirl it in the glass and enjoy the aromas.
We hope you enjoy lots of delicious foods with friends and family this Christmas. And remember to relax, it’s Christmas.
