If you eat like this, you will never have to worry about gaining weight during Christmas.

The festive season is around the corner, and that means... FOOD!

I can't lie—this is my favorite time of the year. A crackling fireplace, cozy tracksuits, and a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Just thinking about it brings a smile to my face.

But for many years, I dreaded this season because I was scared of gaining weight.

In theory, it’s only three days (Christmas Eve, and the 1st and 2nd days of Christmas), but my family has a different perspective. 

Coming from an Indonesian/Chinese background, everything in my family revolves around food. Food isn’t just nourishment; it’s joy, connection, and love—the very heart of every celebration.

While this philosophy is beautiful, it also led me to a complicated relationship with food. I’ve been yo-yo dieting since I was 11, starting with Sonja Bakker (my Dutchies will understand) and even trying the carnivore diet recently.

But about a month ago, I hit a turning point. I realized that no matter how many diets I tried, none of them were sustainable. And that didn’t align with the Osoe philosophy I strive for—one that values long-term goals, mindful living, and a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

So, I decided to work on improving my relationship with food by embracing intuitive eating.

Here are a few tips that helped me make the shift:

1. Listen to your body: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you’re hungry, and stop when you’re satisfied—not stuffed.
2. Ditch the “good” vs. “bad” food mentality: No single food will ruin your health, just like no single food will make you healthy. Enjoy your favorite treats without guilt.
3. Slow down and savor: Take your time while eating. Notice the flavors, textures, and smells of your food. The more you savor, the more satisfied you’ll feel.
4. Focus on how food makes you feel: Instead of obsessing over calories, ask yourself how certain foods make your body feel. Energized? Sluggish? Use that awareness to guide your choices.
5. Practice gratitude: Shift your mindset around food by being thankful for the nourishment and joy it brings, especially when shared with loved ones.

And here’s the truth: the festive season is not the problem. A few indulgent meals won’t define your health, just like a few salads won’t transform it. Food is part of life’s joy, and enjoying it—especially during special moments—is also part of a balanced lifestyle. So, this Christmas, let yourself indulge without guilt.

That’s true balance!