DEEPIKA RATHOD
As the festive season approaches, calendars fill with celebrations, kitchens with sweets and homes with the bustle of preparation. From Raksha Bandhan and Ganesh Chaturthi to Diwali, Christmas and New Year, the coming months bring indulgent meals, late nights and disrupted routines. While we take time to prepare our homes for the festivities, it is just as important to consider how we can support our bodies through the season.
After days of richer food, irregular meal timings and less movement, it helps to return to simple, consistent habits. Rather than resorting to extreme diets or detox plans, a few mindful changes before and after the festivities can support overall health.
1. Understand intermittent fasting
Intermittent fasting involves going without food for a set period while continuing to drink water. Some people begin with a 12-hour overnight fast by finishing dinner early and having breakfast the following morning. However, fasting is not necessary for everyone, and its suitability depends on individual health and nutritional needs.
When breaking a fast, opt for a balanced meal that is easy to digest. There is no need to follow a strict sequence of lemon water, fruit and meals. The priority is to eat adequately and maintain hydration.
2. Be cautious with dry fasting
Dry fasting involves avoiding both food and water for a chosen period. Unlike intermittent fasting, it carries an added risk of dehydration, particularly in hot weather or during physical activity. Even short periods without water may be unsafe for some people. It is not a necessary or proven method of detoxification, and medical advice should be sought before considering it.
The liver and kidneys already help the body process and eliminate waste. Supporting these organs through adequate hydration, balanced meals, sleep and regular movement is more sustainable than relying on restrictive fasting practices.
3. Begin and end the day with fluids
A glass of warm water in the morning and a caffeine-free herbal tea, such as chamomile, in the evening can help establish a calming routine. Lemon or ginger can be added according to preference. Adequate fluid intake is particularly important when festive schedules
become hectic.
4. Protect your sleep
Late-night celebrations can disrupt regular sleep patterns. Where possible, maintain a consistent bedtime, finish dinner earlier and put screens away during the last hour before bed. Sufficient sleep supports metabolism, immune function and overall well-being.
5. Include cooked vegetables in your meals
Even when festive menus feature sweets and rich dishes, make room for a plate of cooked vegetables. They provide fibre and essential nutrients that support digestive health and regular bowel movements.
6. Pause and breathe before eating
Take five slow, deep breaths before at least one meal each day. This simple practice can encourage relaxation and help you become more mindful of your eating habits.
Gentle movement, such as walking, can also help maintain daily activity without placing unnecessary demands on the body. Those with underlying medical conditions or taking medication should consult a doctor before attempting to fast.
Festivals are meant to be enjoyed, not followed by guilt or extreme corrective measures. Small, consistent choices can help you feel better through the season and return to your usual routine with greater ease. Celebrate fully, eat mindfully and treat your body with care.
(The writer is a chief nutrition officer (CNO) and lifestyle expert with Luke Coutinho Holistic Healing Systems (LCHHS))
