SPRING EATING MINDSET FIX

I have a wild proposal as we head into summer… are you ready for it?

This spring, let’s ditch our old ideas of “preparing for summer” by punishing ourselves with restrictive diets and hiding under swimsuit covers! I know I’m not the only one who is working on a healthier relationship with my body, but I’m DONE allowing my old ideas of what my body “should” look like stand in my way of living summer months to the fullest.

This year I’m going to buy the swim suit I love, not the one that’s the most flattering and disguising of my body. I’m going to consciously work toward loving the body I’m living in right now. I’m not going to avoid events and dinners out with my family and friends due to the food options available. I’m going to continue to care for my health by eating well, yes. And I’m going to continue to move in ways that make me feel strong, absolutely. But I’m not going to miss out on the fun either.

Who’s with me!? Who’s ready for a change?? Here are a couple things I’m doing to care for the health of my body while also working to love and appreciate it! Read all the way to the bottom for a couple spring recipes to try asap!

Eat More Veggies

Duh, right? But did you know it’s been proven that it’s far easier to add something to your diet (or any routine) than it is to take something away? As you may know, in recent years we are moving away from the “diet” mentality and diet culture. We’ve discovered it’s not sustainable to limit your options and deprive yourself of foods you love – even those options that aren’t conventionally thought to be “healthy.” Food isn’t good or bad, food is just… food! So, instead of eliminating foods from your diet, challenge yourself to add a vegetable to every meal and snack.

Bring Your Cooking Outdoors

Who doesn’t love a meal cooked in the outdoors? Not to mention, less of a mess in the kitchen is always a positive thing, am I right? And not only can it be an enjoyable experience, grilling your food can be one of the healthiest cooking methods. Because it requires less oils for cooking, and excess fat and oil is eliminated during the cooking process, it’s produces leaner and cleaner food! No need to heat up the house on a warm day, enjoy the weather and less cleanup, by moving your meal prep outdoors!

Choose your favorite lean protein – steak, chicken, salmon, etc. and serve with some grilled marinated vegetables! You’ll find a variety of pre-made marinades at your local store, or make your own! Here’s a simple, but delicious recipe to try:

¼ cup olive oil

2 Tbs balsamic vinegar

1 tsp garlic powder

1 tsp dried basil

Juice of 1 lemon

½ tsp salt

½ tsp pepper

This recipe comes from Real Simple Good. They recommend mixing all ingredients and drizzling over vegetables AFTER grilling. This way, the cooked vegetables are better able to soak up all the yummy flavors!

Are you like me and like to enjoy yourself a beverage while you’re cooking (or providing moral support while hubby does the grilling ;) )? Here’s a super simple spring cocktail idea from The Spruce Eats:

Tamarind & Tequila

1 ½ ounces blanco tequila

1 ½ ounces tamarind nectar

½ ounce simple syrup

4 ounces ginger ale (or to taste)

Combine first three ingredients. Then, top with ginger ale. Add a lemon rind or wedge for garnish, if desired!

Do you have a favorite springy food or drink recipe? I’d love to hear about it! In fact why not continue the conversation in my Wellness Community Facebook Page! Click here to join! I share weekly meal plans, mindset and nutrition tools and soon will have guest speakers to share their expertise!

See ya in the FAB Community...

Lucie Mitchell, CTNC &b. CTLC