Mindful Eating: Nourishing the Body and So Much More

Mindful Eating: Nourishing the Body and So Much More

A few months ago, I began training in teaching Mindful Eating. I did it for personal reasons- I wanted to feel better about my own eating, and end the suffering that overeating causes me. If I could share what I learned with others- so much the better.

Mindfulness meditation has been one of the most healing and transformative practices that I’ve engaged in. Eating- something that I have to do every day, and is fraught with conflicting information, rules and desires- was crying out for the same kind of compassionate awareness and support. So, last June, I went to Great Vow Zen Monastery in northwestern Oregon, to study with Jan Chozen Bays, who wrote the book Mindful Eating, based on her eating practices at the monastery.

What I discovered through Mindful Eating were natural, simple ways to bring the qualities of mindfulness into my daily life. Each time I eat, I have learned ways to become more fully aware, to bring kindness, gratitude and presence to my food, and to myself as I eat. It’s not always easy. Sometimes I’m on my last bite and realize that I hardly noticed an entire meal. Other times, it’s like trying to corral wild horses to become present to what I’m doing.

But, over time, I’ve discovered an interesting thing. One morning a few weeks ago, I woke up thinking, “I think I’ll stop eating sugar for 3 days.” Normally, a thought like that would be accompanied with feelings of deprivation, and an inner critic adding her opinions about how I should have done it sooner. This time was different. It felt supportive, and even relieving. When the 3 days were up, I began to eat sweets again, but, it didn’t feel good, so I stopped for another 3 days. After the third cycle, I’ve continued to not eat sugar. No guilt, no loss- the thought just doesn’t seem to come up as powerfully. There’s more relaxation in an area that used to feel out of control.

Over time, I’m adding other mindful eating practices to my meals. I take a moment to appreciate my food, and set down the fork between bites. I tend to the reasons why I’m eating, and what I’m trying to nourish- my body or my heart. I’ve added much more self compassion to my thoughts around food and my body. Mindful eating is bringing the peace and kindness of meditation more fully into my life.

Sound good? If you’d like to join an 8-week Mindful Eating class, I’ll be teaching this in spring. Call or write and let me know. I’d love to have you there. 541-482-2151, or director@ashlandschoolofhypnotherapy.com