What is mindful eating?

How can we be more mindful when we’re eating?

Do you often find yourself eating on the run? 

If so, here are a few suggestions to help you become a bit more mindful at mealtimes:

• Chew your food! - not only does chewing food properly help to break down and digest foods, it also encourages you to slow down and be mindful of what you are eating.

• Be fully present - switch off the TV, put the phone and laptop away and focus on the food in front of you!

• Savour your food - as you are eating, take the time to appreciate the flavours, smells and textures of the food you are eating.

• Listen to your body - mindful eating involves tuning in to your body’s hunger and fullness cues. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you’re comfortably full. Also, pay attention to how different foods make you feel.

• Make mindful food choices - instead of mindlessly reaching for whatever you can find in the cupboard or fridge, try to make conscious choices that will nourish you and support your health.

• Cultivate gratitude - mindful eating involves being grateful for the food you are eating and the effort that was involved in its production.

• Adopt a non-judgemental attitude - reduce food guilt by avoiding labelling foods as “good” or “bad”.

Mindful eating can help promote a healthier relationship with food, enhance the enjoyment of eating and foster a greater awareness of your body’s needs and cues. It can also be a tool for managing overeating, emotional eating and mindless eating habits.