When you think of “aesthetic,” what comes to mind? For most of us, it’s visually pleasing elements that feed not just the eye but also the soul. Here at Wic Wellness, we believe in nourishing both body and spirit. And what’s a better way to do that than with aesthetic meal planning?
In this blog, we’ll dive deep into the concept of making your meals as visually pleasing as they are nutritious. Your Instagram feed won’t know what hit it. Let’s get started.
Why Aesthetic Meal Planning Matters
We’re living in a world that is constantly challenging our mental and emotional wellbeing. Sometimes, you might feel the need to reset your mind, body, and soul. It’s essential to find various avenues for self-care and nourishment.
“Taking care of yourself doesn’t mean me first, it means me too.”
Creating an aesthetic meal is not just about indulging in vanity. It’s an art of arranging and selecting ingredients that are as good for your eyes as they are for your health. Think of it as a form of edible art that also aligns with wellness.
The Elements of an Aesthetic Meal
- Color Harmony: Vegetables and fruits come in all colors, shapes, and sizes. Aim for a colorful plate to not only make your meal visually appealing but also to ensure you get various nutrients.
- Texture Variation: Combine different textures like crispy, smooth, and chewy. It creates an engaging experience for your palate.
- Portion Control: Aesthetic meals are not about depriving yourself but appreciating food in moderation. Portion control helps make your plate look elegant and is better for your health.
- Thematic Consistency: Whether it’s a tropical summer dish or a cozy winter meal, a consistent theme can make your plate look cohesive and well-thought-out.
The Aesthetic Advantage: Mental Health Boost
The visual beauty of your meal can have a significant impact on your mood. Research indicates that eating aesthetically pleasing meals can trigger a sense of happiness and satisfaction.
“The greatest wealth is health.”
After all, a part of wellness is a state of complete emotional well-being. When you consume meals that not only look good but are also nutrient-rich, you’re taking a step closer to achieving a holistic sense of wellness.
Easy Steps to Create Your Own Aesthetic Meal
Now let’s get to the exciting part: creating your own aesthetic meals. Here are some quick tips to get you started.
1. Vision Board for Inspiration
Before diving into aesthetic meal planning, why not create an aesthetically pleasing vision board for culinary inspiration? Compile images of dishes that you find visually captivating and healthful.
2. Choose a Base
Begin with choosing a base for your dish. It could be leafy greens for a salad or a whole grain like quinoa for a warm bowl.
3. Add a Rainbow
Include fruits or vegetables of every color. The more color, the more varied the nutrients.
4. Incorporate Protein
Think beyond just meat; chickpeas, lentils, and tofu are excellent protein sources that also add different textures and flavors to your plate.
5. Dress it Up
Whip up a simple yet flavorful dressing to bring everything together. Olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs can do wonders.
Don’t Forget to Affirm Your Efforts
After you’ve prepared your aesthetic meal, take a moment to appreciate your efforts.
“I nourish my body with healthy choices.”
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Aesthetic Breakfast Ideas to Start Your Day Right
Breakfast is often called the most important meal of the day. A good breakfast not only fuels your body but also sets the tone for the rest of your day. So why not make it aesthetic?
1. Smoothie Bowls: A Canvas of Colors
A smoothie bowl offers endless possibilities to play with colors and textures. Starting with a base of your favorite blended fruits, you can top it off with an array of seeds, nuts, and more fruits to create a visually appealing and nutritious dish.
“You are what you eat. So don’t be fast, cheap, easy, or fake.”
2. Avocado Toast: The Instagram Star
Nothing screams “aesthetic” like a well-crafted avocado toast. Use whole-grain bread as your canvas and sliced or mashed avocado as your paint. Embellish with cherry tomatoes, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a dash of paprika. Voila, you have an Instagrammable and healthful breakfast!
Lunch That Lifts Your Spirits
Midday slumps are a real thing, but an aesthetic lunch can give you the mental lift you need. It’s a time to reset; speaking of which, if you’re looking for more ways to reset your mind, body, and soul, our previous article covers some excellent tips.
1. Buddha Bowls: A Symphony of Flavors
Imagine a bowl filled with colorful roasted veggies, a protein like tofu or grilled chicken, and a grain like quinoa or brown rice. Drizzle some tahini or homemade dressing, and you’ve got yourself an aesthetic Buddha bowl.
2. Vegan Sushi Rolls: A Feast for the Eyes
Who says you need fish for sushi? Vegan sushi rolls filled with an assortment of vegetables can be as aesthetic and satisfying as any traditional roll.
Aesthetic Snacks for Midday Munching
Sometimes you just need that little pick-me-up between meals. And that pick-me-up can be both aesthetic and healthy.
“Your mind will answer most questions if you learn to relax and wait for the answer.”
1. Fruit Kabobs: A Rainbow on a Stick
Skewer fruits like strawberries, pineapples, grapes, and blueberries onto wooden sticks. The result is an attractive and healthy snack that’s also super fun to eat.
2. Nut Butter Dip with Veggie Sticks: Crunchy Meets Creamy
Cut up some carrots, celery, and bell peppers and serve them with a side of almond or peanut butter. The contrast of crunchy and creamy makes this an aesthetic and nutritious snack.
The Power of Affirmations
As you enjoy your aesthetic meals, take a moment to recognize the effort you’ve put into nourishing yourself.
“I am in charge of how I feel, and today I choose happiness.”
The Perfect Setting for Your Aesthetic Meal
The first thing you’ll need for that perfect food pic is a backdrop that complements your meal. Think of it as creating an aesthetically pleasing vision board, but for your food. Choose a backdrop that makes the colors of your meal pop without being too distracting. Neutral colors like whites and pastels work great for this.
“Beauty is how you feel inside, and it reflects in your eyes. It is not something physical.”
The Light of the Matter
Natural lighting is your best friend when capturing aesthetic meals. Direct sunlight might be too harsh, so look for shaded areas or use sheer curtains to soften the light. The idea is to highlight the texture and colors of your food without creating harsh shadows.
Camera Angles and Composition
How you frame your shot can make or break your Instagram likes (and we all know how crucial those are!). Here are some pointers:
1. The 45-Degree Angle
This angle works well for dishes that have some height or layers, like a stacked burger or a Buddha bowl.
2. The Overhead Shot
This angle is great for flat foods like pizzas or salads. It also allows you to show off your table setting.
3. The Close-up
Ideal for capturing textures and intricate details. Think of the sesame seeds sprinkled on your avocado toast or the swirls in your smoothie bowl.
“Your worth is not measured by your productivity or accomplishments.”
Props and Add-ons
Accessorize, but don’t overdo it. A well-placed fork or a decorative napkin can add a touch of aesthetic appeal without taking attention away from the meal. Props can also serve to fill in any empty spaces in the frame.
Editing: The Final Touch
A little bit of post-processing can elevate your food photography. Adjust brightness, contrast, and saturation levels to bring out the best in your photos. But remember, less is more. You don’t want to stray too far from the natural look of your dish.
“I am enough, just as I am. Each emotion I feel is valid and my feelings are worthy of respect.”
Capturing your aesthetic meals on camera is an art form, similar to the art of resetting your mind, body, and soul. It’s about being intentional with your choices and taking time to appreciate the beauty in everyday things.
Happy Creating!
