The Calm Holiday Plate After 60

A simple December strategy for parties, cravings, and steady energy so you can thrive beyond 60 and still flex your plant power.

The Calm Holiday Plate After 60

December can be beautiful and a little chaotic at the same time. More gatherings, more treats, more schedule changes, and somehow less daylight. If you are trying to feel good in your body while still enjoying the season, you do not need a strict plan.

You need a simple rhythm you can repeat.

That is what this post is. A calm holiday plate approach that helps you enjoy celebrations without the heavy crash, the next day regret, or the “well I blew it” mindset.

This is not about restriction. It is about support. The same steady wins energy I share in my Simple December Reset. Plant Based Flex

The December mindset shift that changes everything

A holiday event is one meal. Not the whole month.

When you treat the season like one long food free for all, your body feels it. Sleep gets lighter, digestion gets cranky, and energy gets unpredictable. A simple repeatable plan keeps you grounded, even when the calendar is full. Plant Based Flex+1

Step 1: Eat a small “anchor” before you go

If you arrive hungry, your brain goes into fast decision mode. That is when you end up grazing on whatever is closest, even if it is not what you actually want.

Try this 60 to 90 minutes before an event:

• A small bowl of chia pudding with citrus or berries
• A handful of nuts plus a piece of fruit
• Hummus with crunchy veggies
• A cup of bean soup or lentil soup

If you want a festive option that still feels light, my pomegranate citrus chia parfaits are perfect for this because they are make ahead and steadying. Plant Based Flex

Step 2: Use my “3 2 1” holiday plate formula

This is my go to when there are lots of choices.

3 plants first

Pick three plant based items you genuinely like. Color counts.

Examples:

• Greens or a salad
• Roasted vegetables
• A bean dish
• A slaw or cabbage dish

(December is ideal for citrus, cozy greens, cabbage, rutabaga, and dates, all foods I feature in my December guides.) Plant Based Flex+1

2 protein bites

Choose one protein source, then take a reasonable serving.

Options that fit a plant based flexitarian lifestyle:

• Beans or lentils
• Tofu or tempeh
• Eggs
• Fish

If you are focusing on mood support too, this “balanced plate” approach pairs well with the same idea I share in my holiday blues guide: greens, a hearty carb, and clean protein. Plant Based Flex

1 joy bite

Choose one thing you actually want and enjoy it slowly. One cookie you love beats five bites of random stuff.

If sweets are your favorite part of December, you may love a cleaner homemade option like my raw holiday chocolate ideas. Plant Based Flex

Step 3: Keep drinks from stealing your energy

December drinks can sneak up on blood sugar, sleep, and next day puffiness.

A simple rule that works:

• Start with water
• Alternate every sweet drink with water or hot tea
• Sip slowly, enjoy the moment, and stop before you feel “too full”

If grapefruit is part of your winter routine, quick reminder that it can interact with certain medications. When in doubt, choose oranges or mandarins instead. Plant Based Flex

Step 4: Do a 10 minute movement reset that night or the next morning

You do not need to “work off” anything. This is about helping your body process stress, support digestion, and keep joints from stiffening up.

Pick one:

• 10 minute walk
• 10 minutes of gentle mobility
• A short mind body flow

If you want a fun full body option, my 10 gentle energy moves sequence is perfect for this season because it is joint friendly and doable at home. Plant Based Flex

Step 5: The next day “back to center” breakfast

No punishment. No detox drama. Just a calm return to what supports you.

Try:

• Warm oats with citrus zest and a few chopped dates
• Smoothie with greens, water, and a little ginger
• Leftover veggies plus a simple protein

And if you want a cozy comfort meal that still feels light, rutabaga mash with garlicky Swiss chard is one of my favorite December plates. Plant Based Flex

Quick save checklist

• Eat a small anchor snack before the event
• Build the plate: 3 plants, 2 protein bites, 1 joy bite
• Drink water early and often
• Move for 10 minutes within 24 hours
• Return to simple December foods the next day

If you want more structure, link this post to my December Longevity Guide, 10 Delicious December Recipes, and A Simple December Reset so readers can choose the level of support they need. Plant Based Flex+2Plant Based Flex+2

Disclaimer:
This content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider before making changes to your diet, supplements, or lifestyle, especially if you have existing conditions or take medication.

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