Blog #18: Mindfulness

 



“Chew your drinks and drink your food”,says Jay Shetty, former monk and social media superstar. What, pray tell, does this mean? He explains it as chewing so deliberately and mindfully that you grind your food into a liquid before swallowing. With drinking, instead of taking huge sips that empty your glass in two swings, take the liquid in with thought and care. 


Eating, especially in America, has become some type of afterthought or race. How many times have we inhaled our lunch on a short break just so we can work longer? How many of us have eaten a meal in the car while driving, just to cut out the time it takes to prep, cook, eat and clean? Eating too quickly can have many negative effects, especially because it takes your brain up to 20 minutes to recognize that you are full. If you eat too fast, this signal may arrive after you have already overeaten. By eating mindfully, you eat with intention, and this can help you determine if you are eating out of actual hunger or if it is emotional eating. 


Try something new today. As you eat your next meal, think about what you are putting into your body. Is it nourishing? Think about every bite and take your time chewing. Slow down. Think about how this meal will power your day. Think about where it came from. Are you proud of what you are feeding your mind, body and soul? 


*Book Suggestion: “Think Like a Monk” by Jay Shetty


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