This blog is called, “how to recover after a weekend (or more) of overeating.” But it should really be called, “How to make peace with yourself after overeating.” The truth is: we all do it. We all have weekends or periods of time where we eat and drink more than normal. As a result, we may not feel great physically (or mentally). And, that is okay. If there is one thing I know for sure, it’s that our bodies are resilient!

I recently spent the weekend with my sister and our kids. We had a great time but also ate and drank way more than we typically do. So on our return trip home, I was feeling far from good. I felt tired, sluggish, and a bit bloated. So, how do you recover mentally so you can move forward with your health goals? Keep these five tips in mind. 

Step 1: Turn Your Inner Critic into Your Inner Coach

Pay attention to your inner dialogue. Instead of dwelling on everything you did “wrong,” try to focus on the fun you had and what you did that made you feel good. Be kind to yourself and figure out what you can do moving forward so you can feel your best.

Step 2: Allow Yourself to Rest

If you are anything like me, a weekend of overindulging often leaves me feeling wiped. Instead of pushing through, let yourself rest. Being well-rested puts you in a much better place to restart your healthy habits both physically and mentally.

Step 3: Continue with Your Regular Exercise Routine

If you previously had a regular exercise routine, try to get back to it. Don’t punish yourself by overdoing it or working out harder. Just resume what you were doing before and know that your body will adjust. If you didn’t have an exercise routine before, then you can always start one… if you wish. Just make sure you’re doing it out of care for your body, not out of hate (see step one). 

Step 4: Feed Your Body 

Focus on filling your body up with nourishing foods, such as vegetables, proteins, fruits, and carbs. Try to avoid overly restricting yourself or going on any extreme or trendy diets because you overdid it the days before. That cycle is anything but helpful or healthy for your body. Instead of restricting, focus on replenishing your body with whole, real, nourishing foods. 

Step 5: Get Outside 

Being in nature is almost a sure shot at making you feel better—physically, mentally, spiritually, emotionally. One of the biggest hurdles after a weekend of indulging is that you simply feel bad. So, focus on things that make you feel good. A daily dose of vitamin D is almost guaranteed to help recharge your body. 

So, if you find yourself post-over-indulgent… don’t fret. There are always things you can do to get yourself back on track.