Brace yourself, as we enter into January, so do the latest diets, the next new fad, the restrictive eating! A sudden pressure that tends to surround us at this time of year to categorise foods into ‘good’ and ‘bad’ and remove certain foods or food groups from our diet which we may both need and enjoy. So baring this in mind, before picking up the latest ‘New Year, New me’ magazine, try to remind yourself, diets don’t work.
Although they may have some effect short term, is it going to be sustainable?
A set way of eating designed for everyone is not effective, since our dietary needs are so individual and will change from day to day depending on our age, weight, activity levels, hormones and many other lifestyle factors. What works for one does not work for another.
Of course, after taking a more relaxed approach to our diet and lifestyle choices throughout December, many of us look forward to this time of year as a fresh start. It can be a great opportunity to set some new goals and intentions which could be beneficial to our health.
However, if the challenges we set ourselves are unrealistic and/or lack compassion, unfortunately they are less likely to become sustainable and can end in a sense of failure.
So, I encourage you this year to take a different approach. Rather than thinking about what you need to remove, lose or restrict, challenge yourself to consider what you can add in or gain.
Think about what you can add to your diet to make it more nutritious, or try a new exercise / self care ritual which could be both enjoyable and beneficial.
A few examples:
What can you add into your diet to make it more nutritious?
- How many different plant sources can you include this week?
- How many different colours?
- Can you try a new recipe?
- Each time you go to the super market, can you add a new fruit or vegetable to the trolley?
How can you improve your health through new lifestyle choices?
- Prioritise movement that you enjoy and set realistic goals
- Consider starting positive morning and evening routines
- Challenge yourself to something new e.g. journaling, breath-work, music / dancing, regular time in nature
- Do something you love everyday
As a society, we’re often looking for a quick fix; a way to reach our goals as fast as we possibly can.
Whatever they may be, try to see your wellness goals as a lifestyle rather than a finish line – that way they won’t feel like as much as a chore and are more likely to become habitual.
When considering resolutions for 2021, it’s important to take a self-compassionate approach. Rather than feeling the pressure to make a drastic change, let’s direct our attention toward feeling good as a whole, both physically and mentally. Consider promoting a non restrictive, balanced approach which focuses on prioritising sleep, managing stress and building positive relationships with food.
Remember, it’s all about nourishment, not punishment!
Here at The Garden, we take pride in offering the most nutrient dense meals all year around. Our juices and smoothies are a great way to add a new fruit or vegetable into your diet and the diverse choice on the menu means you can try something new on each visit! We focus on creating balanced and colourful meals that will leave you feeling satisfied and fulfilled. Offering take away breakfast, lunch and dinner – swing by and grab your January Garden fix!
Holistic Health Coach - Anna Whyte
The ‘Wellness with Anna’ philosophy focuses on taking a more balanced and holistic approach to health. Often, the tools needed to make a lasting change are already in your toolbox. I offer client led guidance in order to support the progress of an individual working to meet their personal wellness goals. I will not diagnose, treat or take responsibility for bringing about wellness change, but direct, listen and support development.
We work together on a journey to make health a main priority, both physically and mentally.