Mindful Eating and Meal Presentation
Meal Presentation
Does meal presentation make a difference? I’ve always thought it doesn’t, but I’ve had a change of heart. I’m learning that how my food looks, tastes, smells and even where I sit can make a huge difference in weight control.
For years, our table has been a clutter collector. Everything gets tossed there. About the only thing that doesn’t happen at the table is eating.
Mindful Eating
When I had young children at home, we ate at the table because anyone who’s had toddlers knows they are incredibly messy eaters. But as our children got older, it seemed we were always on the go and mealtimes became grab and run. And after the kids went off to college, we evolved to eating in front of the television.
I’m realizing this has become a contributing factor in my ongoing issues with food. It is incredibly easy for me to shovel in my meal without even tasting it when my brain is occupied with what is on the television, computer or book I’m reading.
Dr. Michelle May, author of Eat What You Love Love What You Eat, advised eating with attention and devoting your full attention to eating.
- “Eliminate or minimize distractions.
- Tune into the ambience, flavors, smells, temperature and texture of the food.
- Listen to your body’s cues of hunger and fullness.”
After reading this, I realized I might have to rethink my attitude.
Healthy Eating Quest
In my ongoing quest for healthy eating, maintaining weight loss and appreciating my food, I’ve started to make changes where I eat, but it’s not an easy adjustment.
My goal is to eat two meals a day at the table. While the weather is nice, I’ve been eating on the patio. I love the fresh air and watching birds or cottontails scamper past.
I’ve found that eating inside at the table, alone, with just food is incredibly boring, but there is a benefit. I’m less inclined to go back for seconds because there are other things I’d rather be doing than sitting at the table eating by myself.
Eating with someone makes for an entirely different experience. It’s much more enjoyable sharing a meal and conversation with someone.
I can’t say I’m totally sold on this change, but it definitely makes a difference on how fast I eat and determining fullness.
Where do you eat your meals, and do you think it makes a difference?