Ten Tips for Eating Mindfully

Eating with greater awareness is another primary Ayurvedic dietary guideline. Rather than eating certain foods out of habit or to fulfil cravings, put greater time and attention into the foods you choose. Take the time to savour the food as you’re eating it. Mindful eating can be particularly helpful for managing weight.

1. Sit down to enjoy your meal and foster better digestion. Eat at a moderate speed (no gobbling) and focus on the food, not the TV or other distractions.

2. Favour warm or room-temperature liquids over cold, carbonated beverages.

3. Eat until you’re about two-thirds full rather than completely satiated to avoid overeating.

4. Don’t eat meals late at night.

5. Chew your food thoroughly: 32 times per mouthful.

6. Choose healthy snacks.

7. Take a moment to give thanks for the food you’re consuming.

8. Avoid eating frozen, leftover, packaged, or microwaved foods.

9. Incorporate seasonal foods into your diet.

10. If you don’t currently eat organic foods, begin by buying at least one organic item per week.