Healthy happenings with your honey: How to do Valentine’s Day right

Valentine’s Day conjures up images of champagne, cheese, chocolate and snuggling up in front of a movie. It’s so tempting to slip into unhealthy habits on the most romantic day of the year. But it is possible to enjoy this day whilst watching your waistline and keeping your health in mind. Foodies can still tempt their tastebuds, and wine lovers will be pleased to know that a glass of red won’t derail your efforts!

Temptation is not a four-letter word

Before you start beating yourself up for craving those Valentine’s Day treats, try to make temptation your friend. Temptation and desire have led to so many amazing experiences in your life. So instead of pushing these feelings away and telling them they’re bad, try to embrace and enjoy them. You don’t always have to act on them.

When you see those chocolates on sale, notice yourself feeling the temptation to indulge. Bask in that feeling for a moment. Let it arise, then gently set it aside. Make the decision instead to prioritise your health. If you need some extra support, our Jenny Craig Consultants are always here to help.

Make moving memories

If the idea of going running with your squeeze on Valentine’s Day makes you cringe, then take a step back. A sunset stroll along the beach or a bike ride to your favourite picnic place can be just as romantic as that cheese platter you’ve been dreaming of. How many of your favourite memories include food?

Sure, some of our favourite events revolve around food, but it’s not what’s on your plate that you remember. It’s the little moments in between. The childhood slip n’ slide adventures, the time you spent hours on the phone to your teenage crush, or the time you felt that rush of euphoria after hiking up a mountain to discover a magnificent view. These are the moments we cherish, and they can be created without the need to over indulge.

Enjoy your favourites – in moderation

You don’t have to completely deprive yourself. You can enjoy some treats and also discover that healthy, low calorie foods can be just as delicious. Our recipe page has some seriously indulgent ideas – from satay chicken nourish bowls to choc orange mousse and everything in between – perfect to treat your love or impress someone new this Valentine’s Day.

Words by Jessica Humphries for Jenny Craig.