By Jessical Sepel – The Healthy Life
@jshealth
The biggest mistake when it comes to healthy living?
Forgetting the importance and beauty of indulgence – in moderation, of course!
I can’t tell you how many people I meet who simply cannot control how much they eat of something “naughty” because the guilt turns into a vicious cycle of dieting and the binge eating.
But I want you to know that it’s HEALTHY to give yourself permission to indulge once or twice a week.
Think about little children – as soon as they can’t have something, it’s all they want!
We may think we’ve grown up, but we all have weak spots. It’s not a bad thing, it’s human nature! Playing the game of mental negotiation will get you nowhere and only make you more stressed in the long run.
Once a week I enjoy 1 scoop of good quality gelato, 2 glasses of red wine or champagne, a little frozen yoghurt or 2-4 pieces of chocolate. And I allow myself to love it!
Here are my top 3 tips for healthy indulgence:
1. Plan for a little indulgence.
If you’re going to a birthday party or out to dinner with friends, factor it in – that doesn’t mean restricting before or after so that you can go all out, it just means to be mindful. If you’re prepared and excited about the indulgence, you’re less likely to feel the guilt.
2. Watch your language.
Avoid terms like “cheat meal” or “giving in.” You’re not cheating on anything or anyone. You’re not giving in, you’re in control and have made a conscious decision to indulge. You are just being human!
3. Remember the power of moderation and mindfulness.
Sit down, savour your indulgence and be mindful about how you’re eating. Be thankful to have food and remember that it is abundant and plentiful. This is not your only meal for the day, so you don’t need to over do it.
