The secret to escaping a dinner rut
Content.
It’s Tuesday. There’s still a whole week ahead… and the thought of cooking just isn’t landing.
One of the harder realities of adulthood? You have to figure out what’s for dinner every single night. It’s a lot.
Even for me - someone who genuinely loves cooking and finds it therapeutic - the mental load adds up. So if you’re in a rut right now, you’re not alone.
A few weeks ago, my sisters and I went to see Yotam Ottolenghi in Sydney (which honestly felt more like a comedy show - full fan girl moment). What stayed with me wasn’t just the entertainment, but how we felt walking out: inspired, energised, curious. Ready to get back into the kitchen with fresh eyes.
I once read that learning new recipes can increase neuroplasticity - your brain literally forms new connections when you experiment with new flavours and techniques. Which makes sense. Maybe when dinner feels like a chore, it’s not more motivation we need - it’s just a little novelty.
This isn’t about suddenly whipping up elaborate, Ottolenghi-level dishes every night (although that would be delish). It’s about gently challenging that all-or-nothing mindset. Instead of “cook perfectly or order uber eats” where could you add a small spark? A new spice. A different sauce. One new recipe this month.
The more you repeat something, the more seamless it becomes. Inspiration fades - but small experiments build rhythm.
So I’m curious: what’s one recipe you’ve bookmarked but haven’t tried yet?
Iconic!
Nutrition Tip. Kiwis🥝
This one is short and sweet - and honestly, a little hard to believe when you first hear it.
If you experience chronic constipation, two kiwis a day can do the trick. Clinical trials have shown this to be a feasible alternative to traditional mild laxatives (if well tolerated). How good!
Product Recommendation. The Food For Life Cookbook.
A client actually suggested this cookbook to me! I’ve long been a fan of Tim Spector and all things ZOE.
On theme with cooking inspiration, a cookbook is one of the best ways (in my opinion) to inject some excitement into the everyday.
As a disclaimer, my toxic trait is also purchasing way too many cookbooks that I definitely do not have the space for. If this is also you, sorry for throwing another one into the mix…
Quote.
“Make the ordinary come alive for them. The extraordinary will take care of itself.”
-From"Do not ask your children to strive" by William Martin.
The biggest support you can give is simply sharing this newsletter with someone who would love a balanced, gentle take on nutrition 💛
Feedback? Leave a comment or reply to this email. I’d love to hear from you! 💌
Till next time,
Jess, Your Balanced Dietitian xx
