Mindful Eating As A Relaxation Practice
Think of some of the most relaxed and energetic people you know. Now think about what sorts of activities they do on a regular basis. Maybe yoga, meditation, exercise, walking, painting, etc. Obviously, the best relaxation practices are those that easily fit into ones daily routine. But what if you aren’t able to exercise or do yoga daily? How about turning something you already do anyway into a form of relaxation or meditation?
Most people would say they love to eat. But do they really? If you were to stop and think about your meals, are you aware and truly enjoying what you are eating or are you merely stuffing food into your mouth, rushing on to the next thing hardly noticing the food? Well then, why not turn our eating habits into something more meaningful, mindful and healthy?
The Buddhists say it is not necessarily what you eat, but how!
It is about being intentionally present and by bringing your full self to the table. Think how relaxing it could be to eat delicious, nutritious food in a calm and thoughtful way. It sounds so simple, but it takes discipline and practice. And studies have shown that food eaten slowly and chewed thoroughly is digested differently and more effectively than food that is gulped down. In my next posting, I will give you specific suggestions on turning eating into a true, mindful habit.
According to the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism, eating a meal too quickly reduces the release of hormones in the gut that induce feelings of being full. The result, overeating and weight gain over time…
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