What is mindful eating and why should you try it?
Mindfulness is a type of meditation practice that encourages you to focus on the present moment with an emphasis on where you are, what you are doing, and how you feel.
Being mindful has been proven to have numerous health benefits, including:
- Stress Relief
- Lowered Blood Pressure Levels
- Depression Management
The practice of mindfulness has been so successful, that the concept of mindful eating has developed. Food is the fuel that our bodies need to survive, and it can play a significant role in health and wellness. More importantly, we should acknowledge our relationship with food and its role in our self-care journey. One way to explore this relationship is with mindful eating.
For many of us, busy lifestyles usually result in rushed mealtimes and eating on-the-go. At one point or the other, I am sure many of us can relate to eating in the car on the way to work, at the desk in front of a computer screen, grabbing a quick snack before the next meeting, or even sitting in front of the TV with our plate of food.
Research has shown that eating while distracted can lead to overeating and making poor meal choices, and that has been linked to higher levels of stress and anxiety. Embracing the principles of mindful eating has been shown to:
- Empower you to make healthier food choices
- Help you become more in tune with your body
- Assist with portion control
- Acknowledge hunger and satiety cues
Mindful eating isn’t about being perfect, always eating the right things, or never allowing yourself to eat on-the-go again. Rather, it’s about focusing all your senses and being present as you shop for, cook, serve, and eat your food.
I completely understand that time does not always allow for this, but by practising this even for a few meals per week, you can get more attuned with your body and change your relationship with food.
As often as possible or when time allows, I encourage you to practice self-care with a meal of the day. Nourish your body and soul with a nutritious healthy meal that makes you feel good, that encourages a distraction-free environment in which you savour each smell, taste, and sensation as you enjoy your meal.
Practice self-care and mindfulness by honouring and respecting your body’s need for food and appreciate the enjoyment of healthy and nutritious food once again.
For personalised dietary advice and guidance contact me for more information.
