When was the last time you truly paid attention to what you were eating?
Often, we eat on autopilot, chowing down a meal while our attention is on our phone, watching tv or sitting at our desk at work. No judgement here. We all do this.
When you eat mindfully, you give full attention to your experiences. This practise involves engaging your senses and savouring your experience of your food.
Mindful eating is not a diet. There are no quick fixes, fads or fasts. Mindful eating can help you by guiding you to make more mindful choices, especially during the festive season. By slowing down and being completely present, you can soak up all the nutrients, minerals and goodness your food has to offer. It also allows our digestion the opportunity to savour every single flavour.
Take time to chew every mouthful of food. There should be at least 20 chews prior to swallowing. This reduces the need or desire to overeat. Before you prep, cook or eat your meals, do some deep conscious breathing. Drink some water and be grateful for the moment.
At the end of the day, mindful eating is simply about being present.