Food for Thought

Eating Emotionally Vs Mindful Eating

This week, I invite you to notice the connection between your emotions and what you eat. Do you sleepily wake up and pop bread in the toaster without checking whether you’re hungry–or sure if that’s what you want? When you’re stressed at work, do you tuck into the biscuits? Do you reach for the chocolate when you’re tired at 3pm when the kids come home? (Guilty!) 

Starting to eat mindfully is a game-changer when it comes to managing your eating habits, controlling weight and nourishing your body. Here are just some of the benefits:

• Better food choices: will the biscuit satisfy or would a couple of handfuls of trail mix fit the bill?

• Reduced overeating: are you actually hungry? Is it thirst you’re feeling?

• Enjoyment of food: eating more slowly, savouring meals will bring the flavours alive and lead to greater satisfaction with what you’re eating.

Now, I’m a realist – I know that busy lives don’t always allow for home-made snacks or sit-down lunches. Start small, notice your cravings – What? When? Why? Is there a sustainable solution that you can implement right away?

Here’s my example:

What? Chocolate, biscuits & cereal

When? Between school pick up and bedtime (IYKYK!)

Why? I’m tired (and usually a bit stressed) - and I want to ‘treat’/distract myself.

Solution: 

• Prepare for the afternoon with a satisfying lunch full of lean protein. 

• Keep nourishing treats in the cupboard: selection of herbal teas, ready made mix of fruit & nuts, range of fruit, 80% dark chocolate, protein balls.

• Emotional check in: Pause, breathe & slow down. What’s stressing me? Can I let a few things go? Sit down before making dinner? Leave the laundry until later?

Your “What, When & Why” might look totally different to mine. But I have no doubt that this exercise will help you suss out your pitfalls - and identify small changes you can make to feel more in control, energised and nourished throughout the day. 

I can’t wait to hear how you get on!