Bonjour lecteurs! Do you feel like you’re constantly hear the word “being mindful”? Not always easy to put it into practice. It’s about being fully present and aware, focusing on your senses and experiences without judgment. I am trying to do this more. So during the holiday season, I want to apply it à la table! It’s all about savouring the flavours and the smells but also appreciating the moment with my famille. By staying present, I hope to fully appreciate holiday meals, cherish time with my loved ones, and make meaningful memories. Sounds good to you too? Here are some idées on how to enjoy eating mindfully this holiday season.
Enjoy The Festive Flavours
J’adore Noël, especially as we are in France. It’s all about good food with festive flavours… From a nice glass of wine to all the appetisers that my mum will prepare, I can not wait for it! Dreaming of French cheeses and dessert such as la Buche de Noël. I am salivating just writing about it!
To enhance l’experience and make it even plus magique, you can:
- Create an inviting atmosphere. Dim the lights, play soft holiday music, and light candles to make meals feel extra festive. This way, everyone is more relaxed and linger à la table.
- Pause and look. Before taking that first bite, admire the dishes, their colours and texture, take a deep breath to absorb the aroma, and consider what makes this food appealing.
- Chew slowly and intentionally. Notice how each bite feels and tastes: it will turn it into a delightful experience.
Listen to Your Body’s Cues
Mindful eating is about paying attention to what your body needs to stay healthy. Recognising hunger and fullness cues helps you enjoy your meal without overthinking it.
- Check in with yourself. Before reaching for seconds, pause to see if you’re truly hungry or following old habits. Being aware helps you make choices that feel good. I know it’s not an easy one, but worth thinking about it.
- Keep the mood light. Avoid putting pressure on yourself or others about portion sizes or what’s on their plate. That keeps the meal fun and stress-free for everyone. Do what feel right for you!
C’est important to teach children to eat when they’re really hungry rather than reaching for food because of their emotions.
A Guilt-Free Approach to Holiday Eating
Do you personnellement feel guilty about indulgent foods over the festive season? I am all about focusing on the joy of the season instead.
- Practice gratitude. Before the meal, take a moment to appreciate the time and effort spent preparing the food. This way, you shift your mindset away from judgment and toward celebration.
- Reframe indulgence. It’s only once a year and holiday dishes are a treat, not a test. So just enjoy it!
- Embracing a guilt-free approach. By doing so, you can let go of unnecessary stress and fully enjoy the moment. Food is not just fuel; it’s a way to connect with traditions and bond with your loved ones.
Teach Mindful Eating to Children
The holidays are an excellent time to introduce kids to mindful eating. It encourages them to appreciate meals and creates opportunities for family bonding.
- Start conversations about food origins. Talk about where ingredients come from or the story behind a family recipe. That can spark their curiosity.
- Make it a game. Ask your kids to guess the spices in a dish or describe how something tastes using creative words.
- They learn something different. It’s always lovely to see Stanley enjoying French culture at this time of the year and say the words of food in French.
Encouraging mindful eating in children also helps them develop a healthy relationship with food that lasts long after the holiday season.
The Joy of Sharing Food
More importantly, holidays meals are not just about eating. Being French, it’s always très important for me to sit down at the table and enjoy a meal together.
So bear in mind a few things:
- Focus on the people, not the plates. Share stories, laugh at old memories, and toast to new beginnings. The bonds you strengthen are just as nourishing as the meal itself.
- Give thanks together. Share the many things in life you love, and remember how lucky you are to have them. Go around the table and have everyone share something they’re thankful for.
- Stay healthy. Balance out indulgence with immunity-boosting food choices in between holiday gatherings to still feel good.
Food Is A Source of Joy
Last but not least, food has always been a source of joy for me. I believe that mindful eating can enhance the taste of holiday meals and bring you further joy.
Be present and enjoy every aspect of the celebration, from the first bite of a beloved dish to the laughter shared around the table.
By eating mindfully this holiday season, you will make it even plus spécial and the memory will be even more vivid in your mind. No need to rush, sit back and relax around some yummy food with your loved-ones.
What will you do this year to embrace the holiday spirit? Will you host and cook the Christmas meal? Or will you be a guest?
Wishing you the best memories with your loved-ones!
Collaboration
