"Cut That Tabanca": Breaking Unhealthy Habits in Sweet T &T

"Cut That Tabanca": Breaking Unhealthy Habits in Sweet T&T

We've all been there, oui? That little something we do, that thing we know isn't good for us, but like pelting waist at a good fete, it just feels... right. Maybe it's grabbing a doubles every morning even though your belly telling you "nah man, not again." Or perhaps it's scrolling through social media for hours instead of tackling that mountain of work. Whatever your "tabanca" habit is, the feeling of wanting to change but being stuck can be real frustrating, like trying to find a park on a Saturday in Price Plaza.

Breaking bad habits isn't easy, especially when they're deeply ingrained in our routine, like meeting your crew for a lime on a Friday evening. But just like we learn to navigate the madness of Carnival, we can learn to ditch those habits that are holding us back.

Here are a few tips to help you "cut that tabanca" and build better & healthier habits:

1. Know Your Enemy (The Trigger):

First things first, you need to figure out why you're doing that habit. What triggers it? Is it stress from work, like when the boss man giving you pressure? Is it boredom, like when the rain falling non-stop and you can't go anywhere? Is it a certain time of day, like after dinner when you just reach for the TV remote?Your trigger might be the smell of fresh doubles, or the convenience of a quick, fried lunch. Acknowledge this. Instead of fighting the craving, find a way to make a healthier choice or at least be able to limit it. Maybe you pack a nutritious salad with local provisions like roasted sweet potato and boiled eggs, or you swap a sugary drink for a refreshing coconut water. Understanding what triggers your unhealthy food choices is the first step to making a change. Once you understand your triggers, you can start to plan ways to avoid or deal with them differently. For example, if stress eating is your thing, maybe try going for a walk or listening to some sweet soca music instead of reaching for that pack of kurma.

2. Start Small, Like a Hummingbird's Sip:

Don't try to overhaul everything at once. That's like trying to learn the entire Panorama repertoire in one night, it's just too much! Pick one habit you want to change and focus on that. Start with small, manageable steps. If you want to cut down on sugary drinks, maybe switch from a large soft drink to a small one, or try adding more water to your day. Small victories build momentum and keep you motivated, like hearing your favourite tune play when you least expect it.

3. Find Your Crew (Support System):

Talking to someone about your goals can make a big difference. It could be a friend, a family member, or even a supportive online community. Share your struggles and celebrate your successes. Having someone to hold you accountable, like your partner reminding you about your healthy eating plan when you reach for the fried chicken, can be a real game-changer.

4. Replace, Don't Just Remove:

Trying to simply stop a habit without replacing it can feel like a void. Instead of just "removing" the fried food from your diet, "replace" it with delicious, local, healthy alternatives. Our local fruits and provisions are packed with nutrients. Think about a dish of callaloo and steamed fish, or a vibrant salad with fresh mango and avocado. When it comes to exercise, replace that sedentary time with fun, local activities. Go for a swim at Maracas, play a game of cricket, take a small walk around the savannah or even try a soca-aerobics class! Find a healthier or more positive activity to fill that space. Replacing the old habit with something new and enjoyable makes the transition smoother.

5. Be Kind to Yourself (No "Bacchanal" When You Slip Up):

Let's be real, there will be times when you slip up. You might end up having that extra piece of sweet bread or spending longer than you intended on your phone. Don't beat yourself up about it! It's part of the process. Just acknowledge it, learn from it, and get back on track with your goals at the next meal or the very next day. It's like missing a step while wining, you might stumble, but you doh stop the vibes, you just keep moving!

Changing unhealthy habits takes time and effort, but with consistency and a little "Trini" resilience, you can definitely "cut that tabanca" and build the life you want. Remember, every small step forward is a victory, so celebrate your progress and keep pushing! You got this!

If you need help creating healthier habits and developing a more sustainable lifestyle, be sure to check out my Lifelong Wellness Program for both men and women.

See link below, check out my Facebook and Instagram pages to keep updated on what's new. If you have any questions, please reach out to me at [email protected].

Copyright© 2025 Dragonfly Nutrition. All rights reserved.