How you eat is more important than what you eat.

My clients are often surprised when I tell them I’d prefer they eat fast food mindfully rather than consume healthy food mindlessly. Why is it so important how you eat? Because, no matter what you eat, if you don’t digest it properly, you won’t benefit from it.

Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of intention and awareness, especially when eating. It recognizes eating as a sacred experience since food fuels our bodies. Mindful eating allows our food to nourish us effectively, while distracted eating can lead to the absorption of chaotic energy, causing digestive disturbances. These disturbances are often the root cause of many diseases, as health begins in the gut.

The Impact of Distracted Eating

Distracted eating takes many forms. It includes watching TV, engaging in heated conversations during dinner, eating in a chaotic environment, eating while working at your desk (something many of us are guilty of), and eating while driving. When we eat in these conditions, our bodies are in a state of stress, and our digestion becomes compromised. This stress can prevent our bodies from fully absorbing the nutrients in our food, no matter how healthy it might be.

Embrace Mindful Eating

In contrast, mindful eating involves enjoying meals in a calm, peaceful environment, whether eating alone or with others while having lighthearted conversations. When we eat mindfully, we are fully present with our food. We pay attention to the colors, textures, and flavors, and we chew our food thoroughly. This practice not only enhances our digestion but also helps us develop a healthier relationship with food.

Experience the Difference

Try eating your next meal in a peaceful setting and observe how you feel. Take a few deep breaths before you start, and focus on the experience of eating. Notice the taste and texture of each bite. Chew slowly and thoroughly. You may find that you feel more satisfied and less likely to overeat.

Eating mindfully can transform your relationship with food and improve your overall well-being. By prioritizing how you eat over what you eat, you can enhance your digestion, absorb nutrients more effectively, and cultivate a sense of calm and gratitude in your daily life.