Mindful eating is a practice that has existed for centuries, but few practice it in our culture. In fact, we are rarely mindful at all when we eat. For example, you may have seen someone walk into the kitchen, fill a plate with a few things (or grab a bag of snacks) and begin eating before sitting down at the table. Being mindful when eating first means being aware that you are about to eat--being aware that food is before you and that you will soon be eating it.
If this sounds mundane or unnecessary, take a look back over the last 24 hours. What have you eaten? Can you describe it with any accuracy? We often go on autopilot when eating, because we have done it enough that we don't have to pay much attention to get the food into our bodies.
Practicing Mindful Eating: Becoming Aware of Food
Be aware as you go to the kitchen or to the table that you are preparing to eat. Take an inventory of what has been prepared. You may benefit from saying the names of different foods aloud, if possible. Recognize how much is available of each kind, and how large your plate is.
Recommendation: Use dishes and silverware that are enjoyable. If you are having some chips, put them in an attractive bowl rather than eating from the bag. Put away the plasticware and eat from dishes that you enjoy seeing. Pour drinks into glasses or mugs (also, if you're getting coffee at a coffee shop and you're going to drink it there, ask for a mug rather than using the paper cup).
Benefit: You will have a better idea of what you want from the food available after taking a full inventory. And identifying everything verbally will force you to be concrete. This can help to reduce anxiety around food.
