Reflect on Your Current Behaviour: Before diving into the world of balanced eating at social events, take a moment to reflect on your current behaviours during such gatherings. How do you normally behave during social settings? Are you the adventurous snacker, or the mindless muncher?  What would you like to be different? Identify the aspects you’d like to change and set positive intentions for the future.

Set Your Intention: As you prepare to enter any social gathering, take a moment to set your intention for the event. How do you want to feel as you interact with others and enjoy the food? How would you like to feel after the gathering? Setting clear intentions can help guide your choices throughout the event.

Preparation is Key: One of the best ways to ensure you make balanced choices at a social gathering is to avoid arriving very hungry! Eat a nutritious meal that includes vegetables and protein before heading out. This will help prevent overeating and keep your hunger in check.

Bring a Healthy Dish to Share: If you have the opportunity, bring a healthy dish that you genuinely enjoy to share with others. Not only does this ensure there’s a nutritious option available, but it also allows you to contribute something you love to the gathering.

Choose Mindfully: When faced with a buffet of options, avoid impulsive eating. Instead, quickly scan the food selection and opt for items that make you say, “HECK YES!” Choose foods that align with your intentions and preferences.

Midway Check-In: During the gathering, take a moment to check in with yourself. Are your food choices still reflecting your initial intentions? Adjust if needed, and remind yourself of your goals.

Be Mindful of Drinks: Mindful drinking includes being aware of the beverages we choose. Opt for healthier alternatives like water, herbal teas, or infused water with fresh fruits, which can keep you refreshed and feeling great during social gatherings. If you enjoy alcohol and are curious whether alcohol can fit into a healthy diet, read this blog on mindful drinking to help you use the tips in there as a starting point to identify your drinking behaviours in order to help you become more intentional with your beverage choices.

Practice Mindful Eating: As you indulge in the delicious food, practice mindful eating. Chew your food well, savour the flavours, and be present in each bite. Mindful eating allows you to enjoy the food more fully while being in tune with your body’s hunger cues.

Assert Your Boundaries: If you find yourself feeling peer-pressured to indulge excessively, be assertive in setting your boundaries. Remember that you have the right to make choices that align with your health goals.

Embrace the Present Moment: Most importantly, savour the conversations, laughter, and activities shared during the social occasion. Food is only one part of the experience, and being fully present and engaged will enhance your overall enjoyment.

Balanced eating during social occasions is about finding harmony between indulging and nourishing your body. By setting intentions, being mindful of your choices, and asserting your boundaries, you can navigate social gatherings with ease. Remember that the joy of socializing goes beyond food, and it’s about creating cherished memories with loved ones.