Treat vs. Cheat Meals

Over the weekend, we celebrated our wins from the last few months by having a treat day. I look at indulgent foods that I don't ordinarily eat as "treat meals" rather than "cheat meals". This perspective reframes foods I still enjoy in a positive light rather than associating them with guilt, shame or regret, which I see happen often when people are on a journey to be healthier but still have moments they desire and allow themselves that ice cream, pizza, french fries, pancakes, etc. Part of the journey with some of my clients is changing that mindset around food.

We took the time to really enjoy each bite (not inhale my food like I'm known to do!), enjoy each other's company and just take the moments in for what they were. It completely makes a difference.

Though I know what eating like this on a regular basis does to your health, I'm personally ok enjoying these moments fully once in a while. Among other things, food is connection and tied to celebration, and complete deprivation on any journey to better health will likely always lead to sabotage.

While my body usually doesn't feel great after a day like this, I move forward and do what it takes to bounce back!

Food for thought 😉 as you reflect on how you typically think about food...