Tips on how to enjoy holiday food in moderation during the celebrations
By prioritizing mindfulness, hydration, self-care, and intentionality, you can enjoy the holiday season while protecting your well-being.
The festive season brings joy, connection and pleasure, but it can also take a toll on health and wellbeing if not approached mindfully. Integrating wellbeing into celebrations can offer a more balanced and enjoyable experience. Here's how leading experts suggest we take a mindful approach to the holidays.
Setting the right goals
Dr. Manoj Kutteri, CEO and MD of Atmantan Wellness Center, stresses the importance of setting clear goals during the holidays. “The holidays are often a time when we tend to binge on food. Practicing mindfulness during the holidays means putting an emphasis on simplicity. Rethink what really matters to cultivate gratitude and choose thoughtful and meaningful gifts.” He advises setting realistic goals and prioritizing self-care: “Prioritize your time over the amount of tasks, make time to relax and savor the moments.”
The 3A method
Dr. Dharmesh Shah, Director of Holistica World, emphasizes holistic practices to nourish the mind and body during the festivities. “The 3As method (awareness, analysis and action) is key to maintaining well-being. Mindfulness helps us avoid overindulgence, while analyzing our emotional triggers keeps us centered. Taking action in small, manageable steps, such as incorporating yoga and meditation, will ensure balance and vitality.” Dr. Shah’s approach of integrating modern science with traditional therapies creates harmony between festive joy and personal health.
Emphasizing simplicity
Nakshi Satra, founder of In:ha Wellness, advises staying grounded with simple self-care practices. “Make sure you’re drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and balancing your meals with fruits and vegetables, while still enjoying festive treats in moderation,” she says. Satra also encourages light exercise, deep breathing, and mindfulness rituals to keep you energized. “Practice grounding techniques, such as walking barefoot or using grounding stones like hematite, to stay balanced amid the celebrations.”
By prioritizing mindfulness, hydration, self-care, and intentionality, you can enjoy the holiday season while protecting your well-being.
