Enjoy the festive season the balanced way
The festive season is officially here and the goal this month isn’t about restriction, but about mindful indulgence and nourishing your body so you can sparkle all the way into the New Year.
I created my non-negotiable list for the festive season ahead and shared it on Instagram. Non-negotiables are the simple and essential habits you commit to no matter how busy life gets. Regardless of the amount of food and alcohol consumed, a different routine than normal, increased mental load, stress and less sleep than usual. You keep these base habits as best as you can. They’re not strict rules, they are the baseline habits that keep you feeling grounded, energised and well. No rules. No pressure. Just anchors that help you show up feeling good. Think of them as the minimum level of self-care that supports your body, mood and mindset, even when the demands (and fun) get REALLY full on.
What would be on your non-negotiable list?
To help you navigate the season of fizz and feasts, I thought I’d share some practical tips for you.
The 80/20 rule for festive feasting
In my kitchen, we embrace the 80/20 rule during festive feasting. The aim is to nourish yourself with wholesome, balanced, nutrient-dense meals about 80% of the time, whilst allowing the remaining 20% to include treats and your festive favourites you love (mine is definitely Christmas pudding and cheese!). This approach helps you feel good both physically and mentally, and can support your energy, digestion, and mood with nutritious foods. Enjoying seasonal indulgences without guilt or restriction. This approach is a more gentle and realistic way to stay well during the holidays while still savouring the joy of the season.
Here are a few ways to make mindful choices around eating:
Don’t skip meals: It’s tempting to “save up” calories and not to eat before a party, but this often leads to overeating later due to blood sugar dips and intense hunger. Keep your mealtimes regular to maintain your energy levels and feel your best.
Prioritise a balanced plate with enough protein and fibre: Include in each meal good quality protein (turkey, nuts, fish, beans, lentils, seeds, eggs, Greek yogurt) and high-fibre foods such as whole grains or colourful fruits and vegetables. This helps you feel fuller for longer, balances blood sugar, and can help reduce any cravings. When you sit down for a meal, aim for 1/2 plate vegetables/salad (this does not include white potatoes- think colourful and varied vegetables). 1/4 of a plate of good quality proteins, which includes organic meat, chicken, fish, eggs, dairy, nuts, tofu, beans, and pulses. 1/4 of a plate of complex carbohydrates such as whole grains, like quinoa, brown rice, farro and oats and starchy vegetables, for example, sweet potato. 1/2 tbsp of good fats, such as extra virgin olive oil, butter, or a portion of cheese, nuts/seeds, or avocado.
Mindful eating: Slow down and savour the flavours. Eat sitting at a table rather than on the go this helps you to tune into your body’s fullness cues.
Wishing you a healthy and happy Christmas and New Year.
Katie