Regina Troy Barrios

Article (news)

The Wholesome Table

<p>That first week back after a long holiday hits differently, doesn&#x27;t it? You might feel a little blue, your motivation may dip, and the workday can feel longer than it should. One smart way to reset is a power lunch that does more than fill you up—it fuels you. Think clean ingredients, bold flavors, no bloat, and zero fuss, whether you&#x27;re dining in or taking it to go. Consider this your guide to the kind of meal that gets you back in the game—and through the week in stride.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:900px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1745205993508Wholesome Table.jpg" style="width:900px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">  Herb Roasted, Jerk, or Hickory BBQ Quarter Chicken at The Wholesome Table | Photo: The Wholesome Table on Instagram</span></span></span></div><div><strong>1. Nutrient-dense ingredients sustain energy.</strong></div><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> After a holiday, your body craves fuel to combat fatigue. Protein, complex carbs, and healthy fats provide steady energy without the crash, keeping you sharp for afternoon tasks. </p><p><strong>What to look for:</strong> Lean meats, fish, quinoa, whole grains, and nutrient-packed veggies like kale or sweet potatoes. Avoid heavy, greasy foods that induce lethargy. </p><p><strong>Try:</strong> Poke bowls are celebrated for their nutrient-dense ingredients—think lean proteins, fiber-rich grains, and vibrant vegetables—that deliver clean, sustained energy without the post-lunch crash. Whether you’re craving the bold flavors of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/onopokeph/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Ono Poke</a>, the organic goodness of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/thewholesometable/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">The Wholesome Table</a>, or the guilt-free satisfaction from <a href="https://www.instagram.com/guiltfree.ph/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Guilt Free</a>, these bowls pack both flavor and fuel in every bite</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:900px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1745206244992ono Poke 3.jpg" style="width:900px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Photo: Ono Poke on Instagram</span></span></span></div><div><strong>2. Vibrant flavors lift your mood.</strong></div><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Post-holiday blues can dampen enthusiasm. Bright, tangy, or mildly spicy flavors stimulate the senses, sparking joy and creativity to counter depression. </p><p><strong>What to look for:</strong> Citrusy dressings, fresh herbs, or a touch of heat from chili or peri-peri sauce to awaken your palate. </p><p><strong>Try:</strong> The bold, spicy kick of <a href="https://www.instagram.com/pericharcoalph/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken’s</a> signature flame-grilled chicken or a sizzling bowl of Korean kimchi rice, packed with heat, tang, and umami.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:900px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1745206330851Peri Peri.jpg" style="width:900px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Share an order of charcoal flame-grilled chicken with your colleagues | Photo: Peri-Peri Charcoal Chicken on Instagram</span></span></span></div><div><strong>3. Light yet comforting dishes help rejuvenate.</strong></div><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Heavy dishes can sap your energy. Opt for light, modern takes on comfort food to rejuvenate without sluggishness. </p><p><strong>What to look for:</strong> Elevated versions of Filipino or Western classics, like adobo or pasta, with fresh ingredients to keep you light on your feet. </p><p><strong>Try:</strong><a href="https://www.instagram.com/manamph/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank"> Manam’s</a> savory-sour adobo and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/ciboph/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cibo’s</a> bright, briny sardine pasta strike the perfect balance between comfort and lightness. Rooted in familiar flavors yet never heavy, these dishes offer a gentle lift—rejuvenating your mood and energy with every bite.</p><div><span class="fr-img-caption fr-fic fr-dib" style="width:900px"><span class="fr-img-wrap"><img src="https://od2-image-api.abs-cbn.com/prod/editorImage/1745206449073Cibo.jpg" style="width:900px" class="fr-fic fr-dib"/><span class="fr-inner">Cibo&#x27;s signature briny sardine pasta | Photo: Cibo on Facebook</span></span></span></div><div><strong>4. Balance portions to fuel motivation.</strong></div><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Overeating can lead to lethargy, while skimpy meals leave you hungry. A power lunch should be satisfying but not overwhelming. </p><p><strong>What to look for:</strong> Single-serve bowls or plates with a balance of protein, carbs, and veggies, portioned for one or small groups. </p><p><strong>Try:</strong> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/grindbistro/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Grind Bistro’s</a> Grind Burger with a side salad offers a balanced, satisfying portion.</p><div><br/></div><div><strong>5. Hydrate with mood-enhancing drinks.</strong></div><p><strong>Why it matters:</strong> Dehydration exacerbates exhaustion. A refreshing, low-sugar drink will boost hydration and mental clarity. </p><p><strong>What to look for</strong>: Fresh juices, iced teas, or infused water with citrus or herbs. Avoiding sugary sodas that will cause your energy to crash. </p><p><strong>Try:</strong> Manam&#x27;s house-made calamansi mint iced tea with its refreshing kick of citrus and hint of invigorating mint.</p>

<p>In the post-holiday doldrums? Here a blueprint for how to eat smart, think sharper—and use your working day lunch break to rewire your brain for success. </p>

In the post-holiday doldrums? Here a blueprint for how to eat smart, think sharper—and use your working day lunch break to rewire your brain for success.

5 Power Lunch Tricks To Snap Out Of Your Post-Holiday Funk

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5 Power Lunch Tricks To Snap Out Of Your Post-Holiday Funk

Metro.Style Team

Published April 21, 2025 11:39 AM PHT

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