Mindful eating is the exact opposite of mindless eating.
Instead of not paying attention to the food we consume, mindful eating makes us form a really strong connection with it.
Mindful eaters enjoy every bite, they pay attention to what they ate, and how much of it, which allows them to eat just the right amount of food at every meal and for every snack, ensuring they live a healthier life and weight.
This alone should be able to persuade you to become a mindful eater, but how does one do that?
Acknowledge the Food in Front of You
The first thing that you should do is really acknowledge the food in front of you the next time you’re eating a meal. Turn off your TV, radio, smartphone and computer, and make sure to put away the newspaper and the book you’re currently reading.
After taking a few conscious breaths, you can start taking the first bite. There’s no need to rush through eating. Put your fork down after each bite. Engage all your senses and notice the textures, smells, and colors of the food instead of just focusing on the taste. Make sure you also pay attention to how your brain reacts to each food, so you know that you are truly enjoying your meals.
You may notice that by engaging all six senses, you’ll learn to appreciate even the healthy food you once perceived as ‘boring.’
Mindful Eating Rules
- You should eat with the intention of caring for your well-being
- You should always pay attention to the effects the food you’re consuming has on your body
- You should only choose to eat foods that you will truly enjoy
- You should be able to recognize your trigger foods (the foods that are most likely to make you overeat)
- You should always ask yourself if you’re still hungry before taking the next bite
- Pay attention to each bite, because a lack of attention results in your mind not registering how much food you ate, which can result in you thinking you need more food to feel satisfied
Be prepared to hit roadblocks while becoming a mindful eater, as there is an adjustment period whenever you are changing any eating habits, but you shouldn’t give up even if you fail several times.
