Photo by King….
Johann Helf has a passion for healthy living and its benefits. He has spent many years of his life making positive changes and likes to share tips with others to help them be successful. As owner of Lotus Blooming Herbs, he sources and enjoys sharing shilajit directly from the Himalayas as well as other high-quality Ayurvedic products.
Is It Celebrating or Emotional Eating?
by Johann Helf
Most people think of emotional eating as a response to stress, depression, or other unpleasant life experiences. But have you ever noticed how much unhealthy eating is related to celebrations?
Birthday cake. Anniversary dinner. Office milestones. Cocktail parties. Even when celebrating personal goals such as exercising regularly, losing weight, eating smarter, or breaking “bad” habits, we often celebrate with food.
It’s easy to forget that happiness and pride are still emotions that can invoke emotional eating.
Don’t get me wrong. Rewarding one’s self is a great way to stay motivated. And the occasional food reward can be good for your future resolve. But too often reaching for high-calorie, low-nutrient gratification can be self-defeating.
Is it really rewarding yourself to sabotage what you worked so hard for?
Try these ideas as alternatives to food rewards. Calorie-free motivation not only keeps you on the right path, but can actually generate more fun and memories:
1. Plan some TLC.
Spoil yourself with a relaxing mani/pedi or facial. Spa treatments reduce fatigue and stress, making it easier for you to get back to working hard.
2. Buy yourself a present.
Maybe it’s time for that new Michael Kors bag you’ve been eyeing, a new watch, or some fabulous new shoes. Each time you wear the item, you will remember how hard you worked and that you hit your goal. A meaningful reward can keep you focused and working hard.
3. Book a photo shoot for yourself or your family.
It’s easy to forget how valuable professional portraits can be to your future self. Preparing to look your best for the photo session will also keep you motivated.
4. Reward yourself with a new tool or materials for one of your hobbies.
Hobbies are great ways to keep busy to prevent bad habits from creeping back in. And new toys can make them that much more fun.
5. Plan an activity for friends or family.
Bowling, karaoke, hikes, and other outings can be some of the most fun times of the year. You will get exercise that doesn’t feel like exercise and will be making time for those special in your life. Protip: eat a healthy meal before you go so you will feel in control to enjoy a couple drinks and and some snacks without over-indulging.
6. Try something you have always wanted to, but wouldn’t normally spare the time or cash.
Expanding the mind and taking time for yourself relieves stress that may sabotage your future goals:
- See a play at the theater.
- Go to a concert.
- Take in a museum or art gallery.
- Take a really, really long bubble bath. A really long one!
- Take dance lessons.
Still prefer celebrations that involve food? Try these ideas:
- Join a cooking class that focuses on healthy food preparation. You will learn to prepare new healthful meals that can keep your new regimen from being boring. Plus, you will discover new tastes and learn secrets to making nutritious foods like veggies taste even better.
- Buy a new food that you know is healthy, but is pricier than your normal grocery budget allows. It will give you something to work towards to get to enjoy it again the next time you make it to your goal.
Even on a budget, you can find healthy choices for rewards. Just get creative. For example, instead of dropping a ton of cash on a spa manicure, pick up a new polish or two and have your friends over for a nail party. Museums and art galleries often have free nights you can take advantage of.
Celebrate you milestones however you like. Just remember to keep the special food occasions truly special.
How do you celebrate your achievements?