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Easter is a day of celebration, which for many is the time when family and friends gather to enjoy holiday festivities, each other’s company, and most of all, eat! With candy galore and all day feasts, living a healthy lifestyle can be a daunting task during the holidays. When the temptations are at an all-time high, it can feel like life is conspiring against your weight loss goals. However, you may be surprised to learn that there are many ways to have a healthy balance while staying true to your health goals and still enjoying your favorite Easter traditions. Rise above the temptation this year with these 6 tips for a healthier Easter weekend.
1. Keep your goals top of mind
Think about your long-term goals and why you are pursuing a healthy lifestyle. Are you wanting to stick to your goals today and make progress towards new habits and behaviors? Based on those answers, seek out ways you can make simple choices that will help you stay on track while still enjoying yourself.
A few examples:
- Look for more ways you can add vegetables to your dish. Read our 13 veggie hacks for creative, fun ways that will have even the most extreme veggie haters loving these nutrient-dense treats.
- Make fun Easter-themed healthy snacks. Need some inspiration? Check out the crowd-favorite Guacamole Deviled Eggs.
- Add more movement to your day with a family Easter egg hunt or walk.
- Don't forget to stay hydrated.
2. Have a plan
Having a plan is key to feeling confident with any holiday or social event, especially when you’re trying to stick to your health and wellness goals. Focus on what you can control. If you’re hosting, can you create a few nutritious dishes to help make getting in your veggies and protein easier? If you’re traveling elsewhere, can you pack snacks and water to ensure you’re staying properly fueled and hydrated (raw veggies and hard-boiled eggs travel great!)? Or can you bring a fun game or plan a big Easter egg hunt to keep you active?3. Reflect on your "why"
Stay focused on what the Easter holiday means to you. What really makes this holiday special? Think about your traditions and relationships and connect with friends, family, and the people around you. Take time to reflect on the things you’re grateful for, too – this can help take the pressure off of the food or meal.
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4. Give yourself grace
Give yourself grace. Holidays are social norms that are important to engage in, but keep in mind that it’s not all or nothing. You have many opportunities to make healthy choices all week long – one meal throughout your week isn’t going to completely derail your efforts or progress.
5. Consider your plate
Don't aimlessly add food to your plate but be intentional about what and how much you are grabbing. Look for your favorites in smaller portions and keep an eye out for potential healthy substitutions. Here is a general guideline when thinking about your Easter meal plate:- Aim to make half of your plate full of non-starchy vegetables, whether that be grilled, roasted/sautéed vegetables, or a salad. Make your plate colorful!
- Fill one-quarter with lean protein. Scan the table for lean sources of protein like chicken, lean beef, or fish.
- Leave the remaining one-quarter for your favorite side dishes. If you’re looking to add another source of carbohydrate, look for a fiber-rich starch like quinoa, sweet potato, or a whole grain bun.
- Oh yeah, and don’t forget to hydrate!
Did you know you could even change your eating habits by simply using a different plate? Learn how the size, color, and shape of a plate can affect your portion size. Read more!
6. Be mindful
Mindfulness is a state of being that focuses on the present moment—being aware and accepting of your thoughts, feelings, and messages from your body. When it comes time for Easter candy, chocolates, or dessert, you shouldn’t feel the need to skip them!
Mindfully check in with yourself and consider if you are still hungry, if you are craving something sweet, what emotions you are feeling, and how you might feel after you ate the treat. Then, make an informed choice that you will feel confident in and satisfy your hunger or cravings. While you’re enjoying it, do so mindfully by taking slow conscious bites, taking in all the sensations of the food. Check-in with your hunger and fullness cues throughout your experience, and then again, make an informed choice on whether to enjoy it all or just a few bites.
Mindful eating takes tenants of mindfulness and applies it to how we eat. If you are not familiar with the practice or want to become more mindful of your eating habits, read our 3 practical ideas and logical first steps to get you started.
