Minding Your Eating in a Busy World
Bringing Calm to the Table
Eating in the modern world is almost never serene. From the hectic café to the workplace lunch hour to table talk with family at the table, distractions abound. When that is the case, mindful eating is impossible—no way.
The simplest mindful eating recommendation perhaps is the breath before the first bite. Take a look at the food on the plate in front of you and take in the colours and take a slow breath so that the attention is focused in the present moment. Enjoy the textures and the tastes with each chew regardless of the noise that is present. If the mind does stray, gently remind it back to the food in front of you.
Another useful suggestion is putting your fork down between bites. It causes you to slow down and lets the body register the sensation of being full. Even in a fast-paced environment, the simple habit allows space for awareness.
Conscious eating is not quiet but awareness. Through the mindful eating ideas below, you will feel peaceful in the midst of noise and make the eating experience a peaceful experience.