For the uninitiated, there is a beneficial technique called mindfoodness, or conscious eating, which naturally comes from what is known as mindfulness. Mindfulness itself is worth taking a look at, but if you have a special interest in food, mindfoodness is an excellent place to start.
The practice consists of being fully conscious when eating, bring full awareness and presence to the table. In other words, focusing our attention 100% on the present moment in which we are eating. This allows us, on the one hand, to recognize when we are truly hungry and only then eat, and, on the other hand, to ascertain when we have been satisfied, which prevents us from overeating or abusing food, as well as consuming too little. To achieve this, it is essential to develop an awareness of our body, to feel it and be attentive to its every sensation. Committing to this technique makes the act of eating more enjoyable, which then allows us to rest and relax, leading to an improved mood. It goes without saying that any type of distraction should be avoided while eating (television, telephones, etc.).
Taking it slow
Eating in this way forces us to chew our food longer and more thoroughly, better appreciating its textures, aromas, temperature, the play of flavors. It also forces us to become more conscious of how much we eat, and how the food we use to fuel our bodies makes us feel. This, in turn, leads to a greater awareness of what we are eating, at what times and for what reasons, bringing with it a long list of advantages such as greater satiety by being fully present throughout the eating process, correcting or harmonizing the relationship we have with food, moving away from practices such as emotional eating, and avoiding eating too quickly, which makes the stomach work harder and can have negative health impacts.
It is worth mentioning that this practice is in itself a kind of meditation, which is therapeutic, and can be extended to include all the moments that are connected with food, from preparation and cooking to washing the dishes. It only requires our complete presence and a full awareness of what we are doing at that moment. Namaste.
