Mindful Eating & Recipes

It all started when…

Ah, mindful eating. It's all the rage these days, and for good reason too! If you're looking to cultivate a deeper connection with your body and your food, then here are a few steps that can help guide you towards a more mindful eating experience.

Step 1: First things first, let's talk hunger and appetite. Sure, they can feel pretty similar at times, but it's important to understand the difference. Hunger is your body's way of telling you it needs fuel, while appetite is more like a fanciful craving for a particular kind of food. So, before diving into a meal, take a moment to check in with your body and assess how hungry you really are. Are you eating because you're bored or stressed? Or have you gone too long without food and are now famished? Aim for a happy medium, where your body feels fueled and energized, but not overwhelmingly hungry.

Step 2: Now, let's talk gratitude. Before filling your belly, take a minute or two to appreciate the food in front of you. Not just for its taste and sustenance, but for everything and everyone that went into creating it. This could include the farmers who grew your veggies, the chef who prepared your dish, or even the loved ones you're sharing this meal with. By cultivating a sense of gratitude, you're inviting more mindfulness and presence into your eating experience.

Step 3: Distractions, be gone! In order to truly immerse yourself in the wonder of mindful eating, it's essential to limit distractions. This means silencing your phone, turning off the TV, and sitting down at the kitchen table (or wherever you choose to eat) so you can be fully present in the moment.

Step 4: When it comes to using your senses, the possibilities are practically endless! Take a moment to truly savor the flavors of your meal. Notice the different tastes and textures that come with each bite. Do you taste something sweet, savory, or sour? Is the texture crunchy, smooth, or somewhere in between? By paying close attention to your senses, you're opening up a whole new world of flavor and enjoyment.

Step 5: Last but not least, take it slow. Mindful eating is all about savoring the moment, and that includes taking the time to thoroughly chew each bite of food. Not only does this help with digestion, but it also gives your brain time to register when your stomach is full and satisfied. So, put down that fork every once in a while, and really soak up the experience of eating mindfully. Your body (and your taste buds) will thank you!