Mindful Eating
I have recently returned from a trip to the United States, and found myself fascinated by the eating habits of many of its inhabitants. America is a place where more is more and this can be no better demonstrated than in the eating habits of Americans. Food advertisements dominate the television, which seems to be the place to not only be entertained, but also the place to eat.
When we eat, it would be in all of our interests to be able to enjoy what it is we are eating with the minimal amount of distraction. However, as a person eats whilst also watching television, that person does not enjoy the full benefits of either. Eating is not only what we do to stay alive, by giving ourselves the necessary fuel to keep going. Eating is also about being sociable, getting a chance to connect with the people around us, basically it is not only about the food it is about the moment we share.
I often suggest to my clients to be mindful of their eating, by which I mean to get entirely immersed in the moment one is eating. To recognise the flavours and textures of the food, but also to be aware of the socialisation of the eating experience. By doing so people are more likely to eat less and enjoy it more.
