HOW TO EAT TO PROMOTE MIND-BODY CONNECTION?

Connecting mind and body helps us establish a calm and grounded state of being. When we maintain and practice this connection, we relieve stress and anxiety and boost our immune systems, limiting disease. With our busy lifestyles that include work, children, and electronic devices, it’s easy to get scattered and caught up in the next appointment rather than remaining present on the current task and trusting that we will take care of whatever is next when the time comes. That is why mindfulness is a practice. We are programmed to be goal-oriented multi-taskers. However, we can incorporate small things daily to become more experience oriented, which will lead to more satisfaction, joy and peace.

There are many methods and techniques to connecting mind and body such as meditation and yoga. They can be great tools to achieving balance within so we can find balance in our lives, our choices, our actions. Eating is another way to connect mind and body. Unfortunately, many Americans today eat in front of a television or other electronic device. We also have a tendency to eat out of emotional need rather than nutritional need. This can further disconnect us from ourselves and from the Earth and life around us.

Mindful eating is a significant, daily activity that can help connect and harmonize body and mind. Food is something to be grateful for, a living being that can nourish our bodies, minds and souls. When we become aware of the action of eating and of cooking, paying attention to the smells, the feel, the sounds, the taste and the sight of our food, the mind and body automatically connect, attentive to the same action at the same time. This also makes it easy to be grateful for all we have and shift our focus to abundance. This helps the food settle into our bodies to ease digestion, promoting an environment for nourishment. This promotes a peaceful state of mind. This promotes health and wellbeing.

Here are a few ways to help eat mindfully:

1. Eat seated at a table without distractions like television, books, phones or other devices.
2. Give thanks for your food before eating.
3. Chew your food thoroughly until it completely dissolves and swallows naturally.
4. Pay attention to your bodily sensations while you eat, particularly your stomach.
5. Cook at least one of your meals per day.

What’s your favorite way to enjoy your food? Tell us below.

If you are looking to change your relationship to food, call us to schedule an appointment with our nutrition and wellness coach. We are here to help you towards optimal wellness. 310.396.3635

Be well and happy.

Author Calliope Tsoukalas Nutrition Counselor/Health & Fitness Writer