Starting the new year off on the right foot is challenging for any normal human. From evaluating how we dress to being more productive with our time, we’re encouraged to better ourselves in new ways throughout the year (or at least the month of January).
For many, one of the glaring blockades on the road to a healthy lifestyle in college is the dining hall, namely the dessert section (*cue this song*).
If this is you, know that you are not alone, and help is on the way in the form of some mildly successful until proven otherwise tips on how to avoid dessert binging in the dining hall.
Before you get there:
Convince yourself that the worst case scenario is true — they’re out of your favorite dessert, and you will not sell your soul to anything less than what you deserve. You’re better than a second-rate dining hall cookie and you know it.
While you’re there:
Grab a seat as far away from the desserts as you can. (This is easier said than done when you catch Lenoir at high noon, I know). Putting some serious distance between you and those M&M cookies, however, will lessen your chances of trekking over there in the first place. It’s science.
But if you can’t steer clear of their watchful eye, just sit with your back turned and try to avoid their gaze.
Surround yourself with people who eat healthy. Or maybe just surround yourself with people who you’ve definitely seen at the salad bar before. They know what they’re doing, and maybe their skills and strength will rub off on you.
Pre-game the sugar your body is craving with an actual meal. Legend has it that eating a well-balanced, nutrient-rich meal will leave you feeling more energized, attentive and full. You might not even be craving those rice crispy treats when you’re finished. Crazy, right?!
While you’re leaving:
Stick some gum in your mouth and take some slow deep breaths. Meditating on the minty freshness in your mouth can loosen the grasp that the chocolate peppermint soft serve has on your soul. You don’t own me! I won’t betray my body just for you!
And if you feel like you absolutely have to have something in your hand as evidence of your abundant meal plan, just grab some hot tea or coffee on the way out. It'll keep you warmer than that pudding cup on the long trip home.
Good luck, soldier. We’re all rooting for you.
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