How to Eat Mindfully

Introduction

By Danielle Hark

When we feel a strong emotion, be it sadness, stress, pride, or even joy, oftentimes one of the first things we think about is food… Where are we going for the celebration or commiseration dinner? What’s for dessert? Chocolate or vanilla? We fill ourselves to the brim thinking we’re treating ourselves, but afterwards we often feel over-full, uncomfortable, and unsatisfied. Why? It’s hard to feel satisfied with food when you’re not really present while you’re eating it.

According to Deborah Vineberg, a Clinical Psychologist who specializes in treating people with obesity and eating issues, “when you slow down and eat mindfully, you bring awareness to your experience of eating, which allows you eat smaller amounts of food that genuinely taste good. You end up making better decisions and enjoying the flavor, texture and sensation of each bite.”

Here are ways you can incorporate mindful eating into your life and nurture a healthier relationship with food.

Danielle Hark is a wellness writer, photographer, and founder of BrokenLightCollective.com - the online photography gallery for people affected by mental illness. As someone who has struggled with mental health issues, her mission is to help as many other people who are struggling as possible, using photography and creativity. www.DanielleHark.com and twitter.com/DanielleHark.