MINDFUL EATING: how to CONNECT with your FOOD

I have been vegan since 2019, a move I decided to take because of my grandmother’s battle with colon cancer. Before that, I was a vegetarian for about a year and a pescatarian for some time.

Believe it or not, I enjoyed meat, in moderation, especially steak. I never really believed that I could be vegan because it seemed expensive and hard, but after a case of Bell's palsy, which still affects my smile to this day, I decided to go cold turkey and try a vegan cleanse. After the cleanse, I realized how easy and affordable it could be and said goodbye to everything animal-based.

I enjoyed my journey and studied hard to create a balanced life with minimal restrictions. You can ask any of my friends or clients how I get down in the kitchen—you would never know that the meal before you was completely plant-based. And I take absolute pride in my work.

Through my experience, I learned that our indigenous diet and my Caribbean roots are largely based on plant-forward eating with minimal meat due to expense and access. So it was quite easy to adapt most of the things I grew up on into my vegan diet.

When I got pregnant, I didn't have many cravings, but I decided to start eating more intentionally and plant-forward as opposed to completely plant-based. Why? Because I felt like I had been way too strict on myself, and after healing my uterus, which was my ultimate goal, I wanted to connect with some of the foods that brought me comfort, like my grandmother’s fish broth, as well as try new things when I travel, and I traveled full-time.

I want to bring up this topic today because I think the vegan community can sometimes feel like a cult, and I've seen a lot of people close to me fail and bash veganism. Many probably hated vegetables and lived off processed foods, which, if you ask me, is probably worse than meat. I also noticed that many failed due to lack of education, which led to nutrient deficiencies because they didn't learn how to make complete meals. This leads people to believe that living a plant-based lifestyle is expensive and unrealistic.

This brings me to our topic today: mindful eating and the benefits of connecting with your food.

The Benefits of Mindful Eating

Improved Digestion: When you eat mindfully, you tend to chew your food thoroughly and eat at a slower pace. This helps your body to break down food more effectively, leading to better digestion and nutrient absorption.

Enhanced Enjoyment of Food: Mindful eating allows you to fully experience the flavors, textures, and aromas of your food. This heightened sensory experience can make your meals more enjoyable and satisfying.

Better Portion Control: By paying attention to your hunger and fullness cues, you are less likely to overeat. This can help with maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding the discomfort that comes with overeating.

Reduced Stress and Emotional Eating: Mindful eating encourages you to be present in the moment and aware of your emotions. This can help you to identify when you are eating out of stress, boredom, or other emotions, rather than actual hunger.

Watermelon Salad

Tips for Practicing Mindful Eating Daily

Cook Your Meals at Home: Preparing your own meals gives you complete control over the ingredients and cooking methods. It also allows you to infuse your food with love and intention, making the experience more personal and meaningful.
Pray Over Your Food: Taking a moment to express gratitude for your meal can create a sense of connection and appreciation. You might also sing or play sound baths to create a calming atmosphere.
Eat Real, Whole Foods: Regardless of your diet, focusing on whole, unprocessed foods can provide your body with the nutrients it needs. Whole foods tend to be more filling and nourishing, which supports overall health and well-being.
Shop Locally and Seasonally: Eating with the seasons and shopping at farmers markets not only supports local farmers but also ensures you get the freshest produce available. Seasonal eating aligns your diet with nature’s cycles and provides a variety of nutrients throughout the year.
Eliminate Distractions: Try to eat without distractions like TV, smartphones, or computers. This helps you to focus on your meal and be more aware of your eating experience.
Chew Thoroughly and Savor Each Bite: Take the time to chew your food well and savor the flavors and textures. This not only aids digestion but also enhances the enjoyment of your meal.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your hunger and fullness signals. Eat when you are hungry and stop when you are satisfied, rather than when you are stuffed.
Reflect on Your Food’s Journey: Consider where your food comes from and the effort that went into bringing it to your plate. This can deepen your appreciation for your meal and foster a sense of connection to the food and those who produced it.

By incorporating these practices into your daily routine, you can cultivate a more mindful approach to eating. This not only enhances your relationship with food but also supports your overall health and well-being. Mindful eating is about creating a deeper connection with your food, your body, and your health. Embrace the journey, and enjoy the many benefits it brings.

Conclusion

Mindful eating isn't just about what you eat—it's about how you eat and the deeper connections you forge with your food. By slowing down, appreciating the journey your food has taken to reach your plate, and tuning into your body's signals, you can transform your relationship with food into a profound and enriching experience.

Imagine each meal as an opportunity to nourish not only your body but also your soul. Whether you choose a plant-based diet like mine or another approach, what matters most is cultivating a mindful awareness of what you consume. This journey is about finding what feels right for you, honoring your body's needs, and embracing the joy of eating in harmony with your values.

Start today by cooking more meals at home, expressing gratitude for your food, and savoring each bite with intention. Explore local markets, embrace seasonal produce, and celebrate the vibrant flavors nature offers. Let your journey towards mindful eating be guided by curiosity, compassion, and a deep respect for the nourishing power of food.

Remember, your relationship with food is a personal and evolving journey. Embrace it with love, authenticity, and a commitment to what truly nourishes you, both inside and out.