MINDFULNESS: a term that originated from ancient eastern practices of Buddhism and Hinduism. This practice has been gaining momentum in our society for the past couple of decades, as it offers a way of connecting with our present moment and leads to decrease in anxiety and a more balanced way of thinking about ourselves and the world around us. Mindfulness can be practiced/applied in any situation or circumstance in our lives, including eating. Â
In 2014, Zaynah Khan and Zainab Fotowwat Zadeh conducted a study in which they showed a correlational relationship between mindful eating and mental well-being. The study showed that mindful eating reduces maladaptive behaviors, including emotional eating, food preoccupation and grazing. In addition, It showed an increase in the quality of foods consumed, like fruits and vegetables and reduced consumption of fats and sugars. Finally, it showed higher mental well-being and enhanced self-compassion.Â
To practice mindful eating, we must engage all our senses in the experience. Noticing the aromas, flavors, textures and colors of our food and engaging in the pleasurable experience. This leads to the distinction between physical hunger and emotional craving, breaking the cycle of using food as a coping mechanism, according to Sweet Institute (Mindful Eating: A Path to Mental Well-Being.
