Treat Yo Self….but how?
"So in everything, do unto others what you would have them do to you..” Matthew 7:12
We’ve all heard it and sometimes call it the Golden Rule. But do we think about how we actually DO unto ourselves? Is it with kindness, grace, patience, respect and love? Or with harshness, unrealistic expectations, derision, or even hatred?
From our thoughts, words and actions, every moment of our day, whether we are aware of it or not, we are sending a message to our brain. Neuroscience and psychology has shown that these messages eventually guide our actions and behavior. Our brain is always listening and taking notes. I think many are becoming more and more aware of this, but while we work to reduce or transform negative and toxic energy in our lives coming at us from news/social media/relationships; we might miss the opportunity of applying the same approach to our nutrition.
Our culture often approaches nutrition or lifestyle changes as a punishment or penance for past “transgressions.” We then begin some type of diet with a temporary mindset and a constant eye on the calendar for when this dreadful punishment is over! Have you ever experienced a diet this way? Don’t answer, you have, I have, we all have. The problem with this mindset is that anytime we deviate from this chosen penance, this deviation becomes either a failure or a “treat.” I would argue that both are equally problematic if we are endeavoring to change behavior and build new life-long habits. How do we get out of that messy cycle?
This is where I challenge my clients and myself with the consistent work of reframing and changing our thoughts around nutrition. We think of treating ourselves with calming baths, facials, massage, various self-grooming activities. Yet, when it comes to our food, we sometimes end up treating ourselves like cheap, bland, fake versions of what once was real. Perhaps it is the Velveteen rabbit effect, a longing for childhood days…or it’s simply that these foods are engineered to be massively addictive😉
Either way, I urge us to approach our food choices and the concept of “treat yo self” with the attitude and question, “How do I want to treat myself today?” And may it be with love, intention and gratitude in every choice!
Here’s a place to start-
Snacking, especially in the evening, can be a problem area for many. We come to the end of our day, scarf down dinner either taking care of the rest of the family or in front of a screen, and it’s no wonder we are still left unsatisfied. Instead of continuing this unconscious foraging take a moment to ask yourself, how do I want to treat myself? Is it with processed, cheap junk? Or with wholeness and intention?
This is one of my favorite evening “treats” that helps me stay aligned with how I want to treat myself in all aspects of life.
Blueberries are low enough in sugar that they won’t disrupt sleep and contain special antioxidants like pterostilbene and proanthocyanins. Dark chocolate and almonds are rich in magnesium, a widely deficient mineral that helps support our parasympathetic (rest) nervous system and can be beneficial for healthy sleep. Topping it all off with cinnamon, not only brings out the sweetness, but helps balance blood sugar.
Treat Yourself Well Snack
All you need is….
o 1/3 cup frozen blueberries or blackberries (slightly thawed for about 5-10 minutes)
o 8-10 grams dark chocolate (88% or higher) I love Alter Eco Total or Super Blackout
o 1/4 cup raw almonds
o Sprinkle of cinnamon
In a small bowl, lightly toss together the berries, almonds and cinnamon. I like to slowly eat the dark chocolate square first, let it sit in your tongue for a bit to allow for the sweet taste to come forward. Then enjoy the rest!
