Mindful Eating

There are currently numerous scientific articles approving and qualifying Mindfulness as a highly effective technique for the treatment of numerous emotional and psychological illnesses, and its popularity has increased in the West, especially during the pandemic. The practice brings together a set of techniques that work on conscious breathing, allowing the meditator to enjoy a less anxious, stressful and hyper-stimulated life. It also takes you out of what is known as autopilot. These benefits are consequently reflected in the body and behavior, among them: less impulsive attitudes; this includes more conscious eating in various areas.

Mindful Eating involves eating in a more appreciative and pleasurable way, carefully observing all the experiential, sensory and auditory aspects of food. For example: at the time of the meal, observing with full attention the colors, textures, primary and secondary flavors, smells, temperature, observing whether that food has strong or milder flavors, analyzing whether these aspects are relevant at the time of the practice. Another guideline is to disconnect from other stimuli such as cell phones, tablets and electronic devices, in order to enjoy the experience with focus. Not rushing to eat, chewing and swallowing slowly, closing your eyes when swallowing, and being grateful for being satiated are also important processes.

Furthermore, what are the importance and benefits of this practice for health? It promotes greater awareness of the physical and emotional signs of eating. It makes it easier to identify physiological hunger or the desire to eat; it also helps with the perception of satiety, controlling and preventing binge eating, which is an aggravating problem in society, especially among young people.

"Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) indicate that Binge Eating Disorder (BED) affects around 2.6% of the world's population. In Brazil, 4.7% of the population have some kind of disorder, such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating, and it is more common among young people between the ages of 14 and 18." ( LOUZÃ, MARIO, 03/06/2019).

This compulsive eating disorder can be controlled and avoided by practicing mindful eating, as the brain releases pleasure hormones such as endorphins and serotonin, as well as exploring the body's tactile sensations.

There is a historical explanation as to why we eat quickly: in the past, in order to ensure survival, people ate more slowly for fear of other people stealing their food reserves, but nowadays, this attitude is no longer necessary and has become dispensable. Nowadays, however, the reasons are different, such as the desire to eat more quickly in order to have more time to carry out other activities.

In short, a healthier and more meticulous lifestyle is very important for achieving greater health and quality of life. If you're looking to adjust your diet and learn how to eat more consciously, join the Flow of Life community and take advantage of practices like these.