Start practicing mindfoodness

 Today, the word wellness is heard more and more often. It is associated with being well, present and healthy. It involves different aspects of our lifestyle. The wheel of wellness includes social, spiritual, financial, environmental, emotional, intellectual, physical and occupational categories. Today we touch on the subject of eating, nutrition and mindfulness. Mindfulness is the basic human ability to be fully present, aware of where we are and what we’re doing, and not overly reactive by what’s going on around us.

A play on the word mindful, the new term mindfoodness has started circulating in the health and wellness world. The rushed rhythm that many people live today tends to give us no choice but to multitask. It is common to eat while you check emails or engage in another activity. This has created a disconnection between what we consume, which in essence is what we are, and ourselves. Thankfully, mindful eating, now dubbed mindfoodness, is gaining popularity.

It is defined as the applied mindfulness at the moment of consuming food or beverages with the idea of paying full attention to it. It seeks establishing a healthier and better relationship with our food. By working our emotions and psychologies associated to eating habits, we can develop self-control and self-knowledge. Mindfoodness seeks to teach the respect and the hearing of the body’s internal signals of being satiated and full.

How can mindfoodness be practiced? It is as simple as being mindful, present, slow and grateful at the time of eating your meal. A food journal is another way you can practice mindfoodness. By keeping track of your foods, you will start being more mindful about them. Not having your phone, or thinking about messages and emails to be answered is a huge step. Avoiding television, music, newspapers, books, computers, screens or other distracting stimuli is another must.

Savor each bite slowly and carefully. Focus on the textures, colors and feelings it gives you. Always be sitting down, calm and not in a rush. Prepare the table and the plate as if guests were coming. Use nice cutlery or flowers to set the mood to enjoy your meal more. Set the fork, knife or spoon down between each bite. Don’t rush! Savor each and every bite. Practice as often as you can!