Part 2: Planning Mindful Meals for the Holidays

After learning about mindful eating for the holidays, here’s a tip on how to consistently be more mindful in your meals throughout the day: make an easy plan. This is what I always tell clients seeking advice, and this is especially useful on a day when you have a big party to attend. 

The following are just some of the ways you can easily plan mindful meals: 

1. Start your day with a glass of lemon water. A slice of lemon or a teaspoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice is a great way to wake up your metabolism.
2. For your first meal, prepare a dish that is high in protein and fat. This will help you stay full for a longer period of time. My favorite breakfast is a PFF (Protein, Fat, and Fiber) Smoothie. Here’s the recipe:
   
   Ingredients: 

• 1 cup non-dairy milk (almond, coconut, macadamia or soy)
• 1 tsp chia seeds
• 2 tbsp almond butter
• 1 tbsp psyllium husk powder (For fiber)
• 2 tsp raw honey
• 1 cup ice
  
  Put everything in the blender and after a few minutes, it’s good to go.
• Your next meal could be a nourishing bowl with mostly plant-based ingredients or a simple salad. This is most helpful if you are attending a party in the afternoon. Check out my Adlai Power Bowl recipe below. Try to go for organic ingredients whenever possible and available. 

Adlai Power Bowl
Plant-Based Adlai Power Bowls with Pan Roasted Veggies are made with sweet potatoes, cauliflower, asparagus and pan toasted chickpeas, served over adlai and drizzled with creamy tahini. The ultimate feel good and nourishing meal.

1/2 cup adlai
1 tsp extra virgin olive oil
1 cup vegetable broth
1 large medium sweet potato, peeled and cut into 2-inch cubes
1⁄2 head small Cauliflower, cut into florets
1/4 cup asparagus, thick ends cut off
1/4 cup chickpeas
Tahini
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the dressing:

• Drizzle the bowl with tahini. Add salt to taste.
• Heat pot over medium heat. Add vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. 
• Add the adlai. Cover the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes until cooked through. (You may also refer to the instructions on the packaging)
• In a separate pan, heat the olive oil and garlic. Toss the veggies into the pan and let it cook until tender. The veggies should be a little bit crispy. Add salt and pepper to taste.
• The chickpeas have to be cooked separately. Toss the chickpeas into the heated pan (no need for oil) and toast until browned.
• When everything is ready, mix all the ingredients in a bowl. Drizzle with about two tablespoons of tahini, depending on your taste preferences.

The most important tip to remember is to hydrate and drink water throughout the day. You want to try to avoid empty calories from colored sugary drinks like iced teas, sodas, and dairy based drinks. But don’t hesitate to reach for the glass or two of wine - it is the holidays, after all.