Perhaps the most powerful tool to keeping our minds and bodies balanced this time of year is to mindfully prepare and eat our meals. When we learn to eat mindfully we are better able to digest our food. In Ayurveda, Ojas is the energy that creates vitality, clarity and immunity throughout our entire bodies, when our food is digested properly. Did you know that our brains and gut are interrelated with one another? Being mindful when we eat has the ability to help strengthen our digestion process. For example, eating slowly, chewing slowly, and tasting slowly are all important practices that help with digestion.
During the fall, which in Ayurveda we call the Vata season, it’s important to slow down. Allow yourself to rest more often and be gentle with yourself. We’re just coming off the warm summer months, which tend to be full of movement and high energy. Avoid eating quickly or on the run. Cultivate gratitude for your food and give thanks for being able to choose what you are cooking. Before you eat, reflect again on the source of the food and the consideration that went into preparing it. Have gratitude for the opportunity to nourish yourself with your meals, especially if you are sharing it with loved ones during the holidays.
It is important to remember that mindful eating takes practice. As you eat, minimize multitasking to improve the eating experience and digestion. Challenge yourself to eat a meal by yourself without distraction. Focus solely on the food on your plate and the drink in your cup. Last but not least, appreciate that the purpose of this food is to nourish you.
Many Blessings,
Santa Cruz Ayurveda
The Power of Mindful Eating
