Theres been a three-month long build-up of chocolate bunnies and Biscoff hot cross buns at the supermarket, along with plenty of Easter recipes on TikTok. You’ll either be looking forward to two long weekends in a row or you’re dreading your routine being knocked out of place and the extra feasting that come with it.
No matter how you’re feeling about this holiday period, we’ve got 5 tips to help you enjoy what’s on offer while staying on track with your health goals!
- Restriction isn’t the answer
When a season like Easter or Christmas rolls around it can feel like the best solution is to completely restrict all your favourite treats! However, although it feels counter-intuitive, the answer to sustainable weight loss and healthy weight maintenance isn’t total restriction. When we restrict certain foods like chocolate or hot cross buns, we become more obsessed with them, and our thoughts become controlled by that food! When we do get our hands on them – we tend to overeat. Instead, give yourself permission to enjoy a little chocolate or an Easter treat instead of fretting the small stuff.
2. Mindful Eating
No doubt Easter Sunday will be spent with family or friends, and we know a gathering usually revolves around plenty of delicious food.! Use this as an opportunity to practice mindful eating. Try to serve yourself and build your plate around plenty of nourishing foods while including the things you enjoy whether that’s the lamb, gravy or roast potatoes. Take the time to thoroughly enjoy each bite, and focus on how it tastes instead of stuffing it in.
3. Balance your plate
Easter meals often feature delicious yet indulgent dishes – you may have a family tradition that has been kept up for years. This doesn’t mean you have to forgo nourishing foods, and you can still fill your plate with plenty of vegetables. You could put your hand up to bring the salad – which means you know there will be something high in fibre to keep you satiated. When you build your plate, start with veggies then add your choice of protein and any other special dishes on offer. A balanced plate means you can feel full and nourished, and you’ll be surprised at how giving yourself permission to enjoy everything and practising mindful eating can be a game changer.
4. Go for quality over quantity
Although the kids in the household will argue over who gets the most chocolate – try to think about the quality of the delicious Easter treats you will enjoy. Be selective and choose high quality, premium chocolate or fancy hot cross buns which you are probably more likely to savour each bite and truly enjoy. Without even realising it you’ll probably end up eating less by doing so!!
5. Keep up your usual routine
Just because it’s a longer weekend or holiday it doesn’t mean your exercise, sleep or food routine must go out the window. If you are away on holiday your days make look a little different and that’s ok. Start the day with a nourishing brekkie or as you normally would! You can make Easter more active by planning a family walk or game in the park or backyard. If you have more time on your hands, invest in yourself in a positive way whether that’s more time in the kitchen, starting a new book or ticking of a bush walk you’ve always wanted to do!
Lastly, remember Easter is a time to enjoy, so don’t let a little chocolate or extra socialising throw you off track. Celebrate with moderation, keep a balanced mindset, and savour the moments with family and friends. You’ve got this!
