Here at Mindful Chef we’re big advocates of maintaining a healthy balance all year round. We like to indulge mindfully at Christmas, so turkey with all the trimmings (and a mince pie or two) is definitely still on the menu but we’ll also keep active and get outdoors regularly.
Here’s 8 quick fire questions with co-founders Myles and Giles about how they keep healthy during the festive season.
Which dish sums up Christmas for you?
Giles – The Festive Gammon joint which sits alongside its more famous cousin the Christmas Turkey. That plus sprouts tossed in lardons are my favourites.
Myles – My mums infamous Xmas turkey, it’s so big she’s up cooking it throughout the night. My favourite food has to be piggy in blankets.
Who cooks Christmas Dinner in your house?
Giles – It’s a big team effort, My mum and I will start, then my sisters and Dad will take over whilst we enjoy a glass of red.
Myles – Mum always cooks but this year I’m going to help her out
Where will you be spending Christmas this year?
Giles – At home in Devon with the family. We often have cousins, aunties, uncles, Gradmas, Grandpas and dogs too. But this year its the 5 of us.
Myles – I’ll be at mums with our newest addition to the family little Sienna – probably dressed as a Christmas pudding 🙂
How do you stay on top of your health during party season?
Giles – I try to have a rule whereby I’ll get out for a run once every other day throughout the festive season, just to keep ticking the fitness over. It also means you can indulge guilt-free (and are often hungrier!).
Myles – I actually love running at Christmas – the frost on the fields and crisp air on your face make it one of my favourite times of the year to run.
Christmas in the Sun vs in the Snow?
Giles – In the snow, 100%.
Myles – I’m yet to have Christmas in the sun but I’m not against the idea. I’m trying to persuade the family to try Bali – I’d love to go surfing in the sun on Christmas morning
How do you balance festive indulgences?
Giles – Eat what you want as long as you throw in a little cardio here and there. Just throw in a run or a swim, or simply get out and about on some long walks in the fresh air. It’s a great time of year!
Myles – I don’t worry too much about food an indulgence over Christmas. It’s generally the same for me as any other time of the year – I’ll still eat pretty well, I’ll still be active (whether that’s jogs or walks with the family) but I won’t worry about the odd chocolate or mulled wine here and there. Life’s to be enjoyed after all.
What present is at the top of your wish list this year?
Giles – A new set of festive socks.. Just kidding, mum, please no more of them! A new pair of trainers would be fantastic.
Myles –Â Probably something tech / sport / health related. Love the idea of taking the apple watch out with me while surfing or a new pair of headphones for those Xmas runs.
Favourite Christmas film…
Giles – The Holiday (or Home Alone)
Myles – Easy – Home Alone 1 and 2