When You Eat, Eat

Life should be savoured one day, one moment at a time. I need to be reminded of this as I often live life fast.

M has often commented that I stir the pots simmering on the stove fast. And that I dish up our dinner fast too. And I admit I like short prayers before dinner so that the food doesn't get cold. Left to myself, I eat fast and, if preoccupied with my thoughts, I chew even faster and taste nothing. It's not uncommon to see M motioning for me to slowdown.

We know that slowing down helps to replenish our energy levels but did you know that slowing down your eating does that too? How many times do you eat breakfast while you check your email, read the news or blow dry your hair? It's called multi-tasking isn't it? And doesn't it save time?

Actually, I've found that it revs my internal engine and sets a tone of rushing for the day.

Not only has adding protein and healthy fats to my breakfast and lunch (see The Road to Burn-Out May 2011) fuelled my energy levels but so has taking the time to sit down to eat, making an occasion of it.

I have learnt that when you eat, eat, don't multi-task - so no more eating lunch at my desk while I work. This helps me to savour my meal and, when I actually taste my food, my stomach signals satisfaction and satiety to my brain. This translates into energy levels - and weight loss or weight maintenance too because I am less likely to snack.

This is working for me - it will work for you too.