More Mindful Eating
(Post workout sweaty selfie!)
Week #1 Mini Mission
It is September and I have some goodies for you!
“Food For Thought” Mini Missions to be exact! Not sure what this is? Well it is about living a more healthy and intentional life! Be sure to read right to the bottom to get the full scoop!
How has September been for you so far my friend?
Hope it has been full of easy transitions!
Great progress was made in our household last week in regards to getting into the back to school routine (with both boys at new schools and Oliver taking the bus to high school!)…. although it was not without some expected turbulence.
(*If you want to know more about what went down click on the link at the bottom of this post).
Love that Autumn Energy!
For me having the kids back in school means more structure and more peace, and that, coupled with the energy of autumn (my favourite season!) got me thinking about habits of mine that I know I could improve upon and eating more mindfully is one. And I figured I am not alone in this.
I have been sharing some of my thoughts on this subject over in the private SHINE FaceBook group for women and I wanted to share them with YOU too.
“Food For Thought” Mini Mission #1 – MINDFUL EATING!
Over in the Shine Facebook group this past week I shared how I have been challenging myself to eat more mindfully, as my natural inclination is to eat quickly so I can move on to the next thing on my ‘to do’ list.
I think this is especially challenging for mothers of younger children as you are often focussed on the needs of everyone around you and have limited time to truly sit down for a proper meal.
I often find myself eating while standing, in my car when driving between appointments, at my work desk and taking my dinner in front of the TV so I can watch the news instead of conversing at the table.
As a relapsing multi – tasker, this past week I have attempted to slow down, to prepare my plate of food with care (using my colourful, mismatched Fiestaware!), and to sit and eat with attention, savouring my food instead of rushing through the meal in an effort to get more things done.
I have realized that I have a lot of not so great habits that could use some tweaking, but I’m giving myself an ‘A’ for effort for taking the steps to make some positive changes!
After spending time in France this past summer, where mealtimes are an art and families, and friends enjoy leisurely times at the table, together with great food, wine and conversation, I have been inspired to keep that French vibe alive in our household.
So going forward I am focussing on the quality of our mealtime as opposed to the number of tasks I can cram into an hour!
What I Have Learned So Far
I have been at this practice of mindful eating for the past week and I have realized two things;
- How distracted I can be when I am eating. I was surprised at how many times I caught myself in the act of eating without being truly present.
- How much better I feel, mentally and physically, when I slow down, sit at the table and truly focus on the food in front of me.
If you are a busy bee like me I encourage you to try this “Food For Thought” mini mission #1 and see how mindful eating can have a positive impact on your well being.
The next “Food For Thought” Mini Mission is coming soon so watch this space!
And if you want to check out the back to school breakthrough we had with my son Oliver last week click HERE (you will have to scroll down a bit to see the pic of the boys -look for the yellow school bus)
And remember ALL women are welcome to join the SHINE Facebook group – if you would like to join send me a ‘friend’ request on Facebook and I’ll send you an invite.
Have a great week!
xo
Eliz