Hello, food enthusiasts! After indulging in the holiday season’s delightful treats and festive feasting, it’s time to reflect on our eating habits. How did you fare during the holiday food frenzy? Did you stick to your healthy eating habits, or did you find yourself indulging more than you’d planned? According to Lisa Hardesty, a clinical health psychologist at Mayo Clinic Health System in Mankato, it’s normal to feel a bit guilty or disappointed after the holidays when we realize we’ve strayed from our usual healthy routines. But don’t be too hard on yourself – it’s all part of the fun and joy of the holiday season!

So, what should we do to get back on track without setting unrealistic, unsustainable goals? Hardesty suggests that the key lies in practising mindful eating year-round. Instead of drastic diets or sudden changes, she recommends taking a more mindful approach to eating as a healthier and more sustainable strategy.

To help you ease back into a healthy eating routine, Hardesty offers practical tips to help you become more mindful about what, when and how you eat. First, identify your “why.” Why do you want to eat healthier? Understanding your reasons can help you stay focused and committed to your goals. Planning ahead is another crucial step. By anticipating challenging situations and creating a solid plan for those times, you can set yourself up for success. Slow down and savour your food rather than mindlessly devouring everything in sight. By appreciating each bite and paying attention to your body’s cues, you’ll be more likely to make healthier choices.

It’s also essential to allow yourself some indulgences. Life is all about balance, after all! Make intentional choices about when and where to enjoy your favourite treats, without letting guilt or shame dictate your actions. And remember, it’s okay to slip up from time to time. Consistency, not perfection, is the key to long-term success.

As we focus on our own well-being, let’s also remember our neighbours, especially those who live alone. It’s natural to wonder about the health risks associated with loneliness. Keeping an eye out for our friends and neighbours and offering them companionship, especially during the winter months when feelings of isolation may be more prevalent, can make a huge difference.

So, let’s make a commitment to practice mindful eating and healthy habits throughout the year. With a little dose of mindfulness and self-compassion, we can stay on track and feel our best – no matter what the occasion! Remember, it’s all about balance and taking care of both our bodies and minds.

Who’s ready to get back on track and make conscious, healthier choices this year? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below – we’d love to hear from you!