Keeping a spring in your step over easter 🐣
And just like that, we’ve hopped into the Easter weekend. A weekend of hot cross buns, Easter eggs and roast dinners. Yummers! But beyond the food, it’s also a very social time — and with that, you might be feeling a little edgy. Maybe you're anticipating comments about how much you’re eating, side remarks from long-lost family members about your body, or even that pesky internal guilt that makes it harder to truly kick back and relax.
So, I’m here to help you spring into the Easter weekend with ease.
Food, Glorious Food
A big part of this weekend revolves around food, which can stir up all sorts of feelings. Whether you’re in a weight loss phase, building muscle, or simply not thinking about any of it — the advice remains the same: be kind to yourself and feel included.
Pick your pleasure – Pause before choosing your food and really go for the things you love and enjoy. Don’t be swayed by others — tune into what you actually fancy.
Know your goals (or lack thereof) and own them – How much or little we’re eating often becomes the (very uninteresting) topic of conversation at gatherings. Stand firm in your choices. Give yourself permission to listen only to you and your needs.
Mindful eating – Take your time. We often rush through meals like it’s a race, without actually savouring what’s on offer. Slow it down, take breaks between bites, and soak up the social side of a shared meal.
Body Boundaries
As with any event where you see people you don’t often encounter, talk of body shape, weight loss, or appearance might pop up. While it might seem harmless to some, for others it can be anxiety-inducing or make you want to retreat. So, how do you handle it?
Set clear boundaries – If your body becomes a topic of conversation, speak up. I know it’s hard if you're conflict-averse, but this isn’t conflict — it’s clarity, and clarity is kindness. A simple “I’d prefer not to discuss my body” or “When you comment on my appearance, I feel X” can be enough to shut it down or gently steer the conversation elsewhere.
Suggest something more interesting – My favourite approach? Change the subject. Let’s be honest: talking about bodies, diets, and weight isn’t exactly riveting. So feel free to move the convo along — make a joke, steer it towards a shared interest, or just say, “Let’s talk about something more fun.”
Saying Goodbye to Shame
Now for those pesky inner critic voices. They can make it hard to kick back during a long weekend. But this is a time to reset, reflect and reconnect. Constant work — whether actual, emotional, social or physical — is taxing. Give yourself the gift of some true you time.
Recharge your batteries – Kings and queens, the way you recharge might look different to someone else’s. If you get energy from being solo, embrace it! Read a book, shut out the world, watch a film, paint your nails. If you’re energised by people, go be social! Meet a mate, get outside, attend a craft class, or head out for dinner. Recharge your way.
Reframe relaxing – In this always-on world, doing “nothing” can feel strange. But sometimes, it’s exactly what we need. That downtime brings clarity, energy and focus. Rest is just as necessary as hard work or exercise — it’s the other half of the equation.
Most of all, come back to the present, carve out moments for yourself, and just bloody enjoy the time, the company, and all the tasty food. Easter is about embracing the spring and looking forward to the summer ahead. Soak it all in, angels.
