Mindful eating is something that we can all practice. Eating mindfully means that you are paying attention to your eating habits so that you can be in control of your food, not the other way around. Noticing your thoughts and feelings about what you’re eating is one part of mindful eating that can improve your health. Continue reading to learn more.
Mindful Eating
It’s challenging to be conscious of every small thing. Mindful eating can also be difficult if we aren’t used to practicing it. Eating mindfully consists of being intentional about what you are eating and paying attention to the thoughts and feelings that accompany your meals. If you are eating on autopilot, you definitely aren’t practicing mindful eating. Mindful eating can impact your physical and mental health and advance your fitness goals. After all, food is fuel for your body and mind. One important thing to consider if you are working on eating mindfully is that there are no good or bad foods. This concept does not exist. Instead, you should be looking at food as the fuel it is. It’s important to also remember that you cannot be perfect at eating mindfully. There are going to be times when you aren’t as mindful as others. Notice that, accept that, and vow to do better next time.
What Is Mindful Eating About?
There are four components of mindful eating:
- Noticing
If you are noticing what you are eating, that’s one step toward practicing mindfulness. If you are also aware of what you are thinking and feeling while eating, that’s another step toward practicing mindfulness.
- Consciousness
If you are making a conscious effort while you eat, you’re working on being mindful while you are eating. You should be conscious of the thoughts you are having and the emotions behind those thoughts so you can make good choices.
- Stories
If you are aware of the stories you tell yourself about the food you are eating, how you are eating it, and why you are eating it, you’re practicing mindful eating. Take note of the themes of your thoughts and if those thoughts are actual facts.
- Non-judgmental
If you can accept yourself for who you are, withhold judgments, and know that you are doing your best to eat mindfully, you’re on the right track!
The Guest House is here to help you implement mindful eating in your recovery. Call us today at 855-483-7800. We can’t wait to hear from you!