Holiday Season Mindfulness
Fresh Food for Thought: Do you consider your health goals when making your dinner plate for the holiday?
For some of us mindfulness is a new practice. We can operate in such a hustle and bustle of life that we just move through the motions without taking a moment to think through our reactions to what is happening to us. This can be especially the case during the holiday season. Depending on what traditions you practice, you can be busy shopping for gifts, groceries, and overall giving all of you attention to everything and everyone accept yourself.
“Mindful eating involves the development of a special kind of awareness that we bring to the table whenever we eat.” (Albers, 2008 –pg 19)
Mindful eating involves being connected to our body and taking a moment to be aware of the signals our bodies are sending us. I’ve learned from experience with myself and with peers that one of the biggest mindful eating tips to be aware of is if I am eating for “physical hunger vs. emotional hunger” (Albers, 2008 – pg 90) Symptoms of physical hunger are usually your stomach in discomfort because you recognize you have not eaten for the entire day. Emotional hunger could be taking place if you just finished a balanced meal, and you find yourself going back to the buffet of food because everything smells and looks so good. This is something that we all face during the holiday season and even throughout the year for special events.
When enjoying your family and friends this holiday and enjoying the food that has been prepared, its okay to take a moment to yourself and ask yourself if you are “still hungry.” Or are you eating because you are overcome with the joy of the holiday or overcome with stress that can sometimes come with it.
I have even had times where my elders have cooked and they almost seem offended if I do not eat everything in site. I understand they worked hard on what is being served, but I have to take care of my health. It is okay to politely say, “I am satisfied at the moment, but I’d love to get a to go plate for later.” Or “I am going to play some UNO for a bit and walk around, and then I’ll be back for a snack later.” It’s your body – treat it with care! 😉
A few mindful tips: (pg. 50)
· Be aware of eating while engaged in other activities. If you are watching television or doing work of some sort, it is possible to be less mindful of the food.
· Slow down your eating habits. Take the time to bite the food off the fork, chew, and swallow completely before the next bite.
Fresh Food for Thought: How will you remain mindful to best nutrition practices for you and your health goals during this holiday season?
Cited sources available upon request.