Think about the last time you bit your tongue. Whether you were multi-tasking or chewing in a rush, chances are you weren’t eating mindfully!

The occasional painful tongue aside, mindless eating can lead to indigestion, upset stomach and poor dietary decisions. So whether you’re snacking habitually throughout the day or taking a deep dive into unhealthy comfort foods, think about recalibrating your situation.

Make a regular ritual of doing nothing but eating, for as many meals and snacks as you can. 

• First, get rid of potential distractions.
• Then take a good look at your meal. 

The benefits of eating mindfully

When you’re completely engaged with eating and nothing else, it becomes easier to recognize when you’re full, if you’ve eaten too much or whether you’re eating food that could be a lot healthier. Mindful eating also helps you reconnect with your emotions. It becomes easier to tell if you’re eating because you’re hungry or if it’s a response to stress, boredom, sadness or other emotional sources. Think of it as taking time to get to know yourself better and understand your latest habits. 

Mindful eating also helps you develop greater awareness and appreciation for each meal. And your food might even taste better, as you tap into the nuances of its textures and tastes.