Mindless eating is one of the leading causes of overeating. Many of us don't have an overeating problem. Our problem is that we put the food in front of us and we “exit the building”. We go off somewhere else in our thoughts – worrying, planning, and thinking. We are not present to enjoy our food and so we are not filled by it. Discipline yourself to slow down when eating. Eating was intended to bring us pleasure.

Practice praying and giving thanks over your food. Whether you eat with others or alone, stay present and focused on the experience. Food is intended to bring us pleasure — so slow down and enjoy! You may not need a 2 nd helping J

To slow down when eating, try these tricks.

• DO NOT multitask. When you eat: just eat.
• If you're right-handed, eat with your left hand, and vice versa.
• Cut your food into small pieces, and eat one morsel at a time.
• Put your silverware down in between bites.
• Take sips of water between bites.
• Chew each bite 20-30 times. (Improves digestion).
• Fully swallow each bite before putting another in your mouth.
• Practice continuous, full breathing with each bite. (Oxygen is filling).
• Think about what you are doing. Focus on the taste, texture and stay in the moment.

Give these tips a try. Remember to slow down and enjoy!

Next Monday: Get Motivated!