What is Mindful Eating?

Mindful eating is the practice of being fully present and engaged with eating. It involves attention to our food’s colors, textures, smells, and flavors. By slowing down and savoring each bite, we can foster a deeper appreciation for the nourishment our meals provide.

Benefits of Mindful Eating

1.  Enjoymen: Mindful eating allows us to fully appreciate the sensory experience of eating, making each meal more enjoyable.
2. Better Digestion: Eating slowly and chewing thoroughly aids digestion and can reduce issues like bloating and indigestion. I’ve always been a slow eater, not only for this reason but mainly because eating too fast hurts my chest. lol
3. Healthier Choices: When we eat mindfully, we’re more likely to listen to our body’s hunger and fullness cues, leading to healthier eating habits.
4. Reduced Overeating: We can avoid overeating and maintain a balanced diet by paying attention to our food and our body’s signals.

Seasonal Summer Foods to Savor

Summer offers an array of delicious fruits and vegetables packed with nutrients. Here are some seasonal delights I like to incorporate into my mindful eating practice. You might enjoy some of these foods, too!

1. Berries: Strawberries, blueberries, and blackberries are at their peak during summer. Raspberries are, too, but I do not like their taste. Berries are rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and fiber. Add them to your morning yogurt, oatmeal, or salads, or enjoy them as a snack.

2. Tomatoes: Bursting with flavor, summer tomatoes are versatile in many dishes. They are high in vitamins C and K and are a good source of folate and potassium. Enjoy them in salads, sandwiches, or roasted with a drizzle of olive oil. I also like them sun-dried in pasta and salads.

3. Corn: Sweet summer corn is a true delight. It’s a good source of fiber, vitamins B and C, and antioxidants. Grill it, boil it, or add it to salads and salsas.

4. Zucchini: This versatile vegetable is perfect for summer. It can be grilled, roasted, or spiralized into noodles. Zucchini is low in calories but high in vitamins A and C, adding a delightful texture to any meal. I don’t care much for squash, but zucchini is tasty!

5. Watermelon: This hydrating fruit is a summer staple. Rich in vitamins A, B, and C, watermelon is also a good source of antioxidants. Enjoy it chilled, in salads, or as a refreshing drink. Other melons, such as cantaloupe and honeydew, are yummy as well.

6. Peaches and Nectarines: These juicy fruits are perfect for summer desserts or snacks. They are high in vitamins A and C and provide good fiber. Eat them fresh, grilled, or baked into a delicious cobbler. I love grilling peaches in the summer!

 Tips for Mindful Eating

1. Create a Calm Eating Environment: Minimize distractions by turning off the TV and removing your phone. Focus on the experience of eating.

2. Eat Slowly: Take your time with each bite. Chew thoroughly and savor the flavors and textures of your food.

3. Engage Your Senses: Pay attention to your food’s colors, smells, and textures. Notice how each bite tastes and feels in your mouth.

4. Listen to Your Body: Tune in to your body’s hunger and fullness signals. Eat when you’re hungry and stop when you’re satisfied.

5. Express Gratitude: Take a moment to appreciate your food’s journey from farm to table and express gratitude for the nourishment it provides.

By embracing the practice of mindful eating and savoring the seasonal bounty of summer, we can enhance our connection to food and cultivate a more fulfilling and nourishing eating experience. Enjoy the vibrant tastes of summer, and let each meal be an opportunity for mindfulness and gratitude.