Each time we stand on the threshold of a new year, the air is thick with the promise of change, self-improvement, and the inevitable resolutions that aim to transform our habits. However, despite our best intentions, We often find ourselves caught in a loop of failed commitments and mounting frustrations. In this blog, I dive deep into the psychological and biological intricacies that underlie the perennial challenge of sticking to New Year’s resolutions, especially when it comes to our eating habits.
Let’s start by discussing the common phenomenon of holiday overindulgence. Treating yourself like a ‘human dustbin’ to finish off festive treats is not just a lapse in self-control but a response to deeply ingrained biological cues. The brain’s survival mechanisms, honed by evolution, easily succumb to the allure of the fat and sugar combination found in many holiday treats—a duo rarely present in nature. This unintentional rebellion against post-holiday health initiatives becomes clearer.
Now, let us add to the mix our collective tendency towards self-sabotage, particularly in the context of diet and exercise. Understand that negative self-talk and unrealistic comparisons at the gym are not just about a lack of willpower but are indicative of the brain’s protective instincts. Dollop on a large helping of manipulative marketing tactics from the food industry and we have a recipe for disaster! I urge you to adopt a critical perspective towards such influences. Recognising these tactics is an opportunity for growth rather than reasons for guilt and is crucial for fostering a healthier relationship with food and self-image.
There is a fascinating study that demonstrates the mind’s powerful influence on our body’s response to food. It showed that the belief about the caloric content of what we eat can directly impact physiological reactions, such as blood sugar levels. In a nutshell, there were two groups of people given a smoothie. One was told it had 680 calories and was a high-calorie smoothie. The other people were informed that it was a healthy smoothie with only 200 calories. The difference in blood sugar results from those people were so different! The people drinking the 680-calorie smoothie had a blood sugar spike, and those who thought they were consuming the healthy smoothie did not. This really underscores the importance of enjoying food without guilt and recognising the power of internal narratives. Look out for the negative dialogue in your head. Steering these voices towards healthier habits is crucial for aligning your actions with your values.
The role of habits in shaping our daily lives must not be overlooked; however, a whole blog is coming up on this in a few weeks. Together, we will look at strategies for altering habits that no longer serve us without solely relying on willpower. You CAN NOT out willpower habits! For now, the emphasis must be on the importance of self-care practices such as movement, meditation, and proper nutrition in maintaining a “full bucket” of “willpower” and resilience against the inevitable daily stresses.
In conclusion, dear reader, It is my invitation to you to draw on the compelling narrative above that combines scientific insights with practical advice, to embark on a journey of awareness and self-discovery around your wellbeing journey, with the assurance that transformation is not about self-fault but about cultivating a mindset for making healthier choices that resonate with your deepest values.