Given our fast pace zoom here, get there, endless multitasking society, the practice of being mindful can easily get lost in the daily hustle. This is especially true during mealtimes. How can we incorporate mindful techniques during meals?
According to Miriam Webster’s online dictionary, the word mindful is defined as “the practice of maintaining a nonjudgmental state of heightened or complete awareness of one’s thoughts, emotions, or experiences on a moment-to-moment basis. “ (1) Jon Kabat Zinn defines mindful as “awareness that arises through paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally†(2)
One way to incorporate mindful eating involves something we are not used to in our society: SLOWING DOWN! Be in the moment. Take time to chew and swallow your food. This technique may help us become more aware of what and how much are putting into our mouths.
Another technique involves checking in with yourself. Get more comfortable with beginning a non-judgmental internal dialogue. Ask yourself, how am I feeling in this moment? Checking in with yourself can allow you to better understand your body and its cues for hunger, fullness, and cravings. This technique may help pinpoint particular emotions that lead you to eat certain foods.
Journaling is another great idea. Write openly about your feelings. This may help you better understand your patterns in regards to eating.
Last but not least be kind to yourself. No one is perfect. After all, life is all about finding balance in everything we do.
Sources:
- Miriam Webster Dictionary online, Miriam-webster.com
- Mindful. Healthy Mind, Healthy life, Mindful.org
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