It’s that time of year again—Purim is here! From choosing costumes to putting together mishloach manot, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. This year, Purim falls on a Friday, which means it’s bound to be a whirlwind of activity. Between running errands, visiting friends and trying to get everything ready for Shabbat, it can feel like a race to the finish line. But what about you? In the chaos, it’s easy to find yourself eating on the go, grabbing whatever snack lands in your lap. You might even forget to eat entirely while you’re running around.
Planning ahead is key to staying balanced, not only physically but also mentally. Just because Purim is a topsy-turvy day doesn’t mean your health has to be turned upside down! With a bit of mindfulness, you can make this Purim a day of joy without letting the food frenzy take over.
One of the most important things to remember is to start your day off with breakfast. It might sound tempting to skip your first meal, thinking you’ll save some calories, but this strategy will only backfire. A solid breakfast will not only help you avoid mindlessly snacking throughout the morning but also set you up for better choices later on. Think of a balanced plate: protein (eggs or nonfat Greek yogurt), a good carb with fiber (oats, fruit), and healthy fats (olive oil, chia seeds, avocado). If you’re not much of a breakfast person, a smoothie can be a great alternative. You can easily blend some yogurt or protein powder with frozen fruit and add a spoonful of nut butter or chia/flaxseeds for a satisfying and nutrient-packed start to your day.
Staying hydrated is another key component to feeling good throughout the day. Water is essential for regulating your body temperature, keeping your energy levels up and preventing headaches or fatigue. I always keep a water bottle with me, whether I’m in the car or out and about. If plain water doesn’t excite you, try adding lemon, mint or cucumber to make it more refreshing. You can also brew some non-caffeinated tea, chill it and drink that to help you stay hydrated. Aim for at least eighty ounces of water throughout the day, and make it a habit to drink some before reaching for snacks.
The day of Purim can be a long one, so it’s important to plan ahead for snacks that will keep you satisfied and avoid the temptation to grab anything in sight. Having simple snacks on hand, like hard-boiled eggs, nuts or whole grain crackers with hummus, can help you stay on track. Be sure to focus on a combination of protein, healthy fats and good carbs to keep you energized and full.
Now, we can’t ignore the fact that it’s Purim, and that means treats! But just because there’s an abundance of food around doesn’t mean you have to abandon your health goals. Before you indulge, take a moment to ask yourself: Is this something you look forward to all year? Is it homemade? Will you be happy eating it, or will it leave you feeling regretful once it’s gone? A little mindfulness can go a long way in helping you make better choices.
When it comes to indulging, moderation is the key. It’s okay to have a treat or two, but it’s important to savor the experience. Instead of grabbing everything in sight, wait until you’ve collected a little stash and choose the treat that speaks to you the most. Tell yourself you’re saving the others for later. This way, you can fully enjoy the one you’ve chosen, savor it slowly and make it a part of your mindful celebration.
And don’t forget—it’s Shabbat too! With Purim falling on a Friday, the Shabbat meal is also just around the corner. Make sure you’re thinking ahead to the meal and planning for a balance of quality proteins and lots of veggies. Your body will thank you after all the indulgence.
Finally, try to get some movement into your day. Purim is often a day spent running from house to house, driving from one friend’s home to the next or standing in the kitchen preparing meals. Even though the day can be hectic, try to fit in some exercise by walking to your neighbors’ houses or going for a quick walk around the block. A little movement can help keep you feeling energized and balanced throughout the festivities.
And most importantly, remember this: Purim is only one day a year! Don’t stress about the occasional indulgence. The key is to enjoy the celebration and the treats without guilt. The next day, you can always start fresh, feeling proud of how you managed to stay mindful through the festivities.
Chag Sameach!
Chaya Eisenberger is a certified personal trainer, coach, sports nutrition specialist and precision nutrition coach. She helps individuals of all ages and stages achieve their fitness and nutrition goals through personalized coaching. She can be reached at chayaeisenberger1@gmail.com.