Mindful Eating: Is there something wrong with the children?

Mindful Eating: Is there something wrong with the children?

Multitasking has become the norm for many people, but many of us have unfortunately lost touch with enjoying a meal, especially children. Is there is something wrong with the children? No. We as parents have become overstressed, overworked and simply do not have the energy to keep up with our kids. Instead of savoring each bite, we often rush through our meals while distracted by our phones, computers, or television screens. This mindless approach to eating detracts from the enjoyment of food and can adversely affect our digestion and overall well-being, not to mention the bad habits we are giving our children.

Mindful eating is a practice in which we slow down, pay attention to our food, and savor each bite. It is not about restricting what we eat or following a strict diet plan; instead, it's about cultivating an awareness of how food affects our body and mind.

Here are some techniques for incorporating mindful eating into your daily routine:

Eat Without Distractions:

• Turn off the TV.

• Put away your phone.

• Create a calm, peaceful environment for your meals.

By eliminating distractions, you can entirely focus on the sensory experience of eating.

Engage Your Senses: Appreciate your food's colors, textures, and aromas. Notice the way the food looks, feels, and smells, and allow yourself to become fully present in the moment.

Chew Slowly and Thoroughly: Many of us tend to rush through our meals, but chewing slowly and thoroughly is essential for proper digestion. Allow your body to break down the food and extract its nutrients fully by chewing each bite at least 20 times before swallowing. 

Pause Between Bites: After swallowing a bite of food, take a moment to pause and notice how you feel before taking the next bite. This allows you to tune in to your body's hunger and fullness cues.

Listen to Your Body: Eat only when you are starving. Stop eating when you feel full, even if food remains on your plate. Remember not to waste food! Could you keep it for another meal?

Practice Gratitude: Before starting your meal, express thanks. Cultivating a sense of gratitude can help foster a deeper appreciation. Also, if someone prepared the meal, let them know how grateful you are for your food.

Mindful Snacking: Apply the same principles of mindful eating to snacks. Instead of mindlessly munching on snacks while working or watching TV, take the time to savor each bite and fully enjoy the experience.

To conclude, there is nothing wrong with the children; it is we as parents who need to be present in the moment. Remember to incorporate these mindful eating techniques into your everyday routine so you and your family can enjoy every meal and improve your digestion and overall well-being. Remember that mindful eating takes time. Be patient with yourself and approach each meal with curiosity and openness. With time and practice, mindful eating becomes a natural and enjoyable part of your families daily life.

food and devices on table