What do I eat? When do I eat? How much do I eat? When answering these questions it is so easy to fall under the influence of diet culture and pressure from outside sources, such as social media. The good news is that there can be one answer to these questions. And guess what! You already have the answer in you! You guessed it, it is your intuition! Following your intuition is the best way to cut out the outside noise and listen to what your body needs. However, mindful eating is an art that takes time to practice. If you are ready to let your intuition paint your plate, then listen up to these 5 steps:
1. Say Bye to Diet Culture
Mindful eating is not another one of those fad diets. So no need to prepare yourself for fasting, cutting out your favourite foods, and following strict meal plans (now is when you thank me). The truth is that many of the diets out there leave people feeling hopeless and as though they have failed at following them properly. What’s even worse is that many diets can lead to nutrient deficiencies and inhibit us from truly listening to our bodies.
2. Listen to your Body
If you are hungry, then you are hungry. If you are full, then you are full. It can be as simple as that if you let it. As children, we were born with the ability to recognize hunger and fullness cues, however with age, we began to listen to outside sources instead of our own body. Practice paying attention to how your body feels when it needs fuel and when it is good for now. Remember to respect what you hear.
3. Respect your Body
It is important to acknowledge your unique genetics and see your body as truly beautiful. It can be difficult to reject diet culture and to fully listen to your body when you do not respect it. Maybe it is time to thank your body for all it does for you instead of criticizing it for not looking a certain way. Your body is beautiful just as it is. Challenge your thoughts that tell you otherwise.
4. Be Kind to Your Health
Nobody is perfect, so stop expecting yourself to be. You do not have to eat perfectly in order to be healthy. Find foods that taste good and make you feel good! Consider adopting a simple exercise routine. A crucial aspect of eating to feel your best is eating to feel fueled and strong. Use that fuel to feel your body move.
5. Heal your Relationship With Food
Our mental health and how we see food have a direct link. Guilt and restriction work in a positive feedback loop. The more you let them get the best of you, the more they will show up. Next time you feel guilty for eating something “unhealthy”, forgive yourself, move on, and appreciate the fact that it was delicious and you are not any “unhealthier” because of it.
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