As a certified yoga instructor, Peggy Hall developed a program called "The Yoga of Eating," which takes the principles of "awareness, breath and calm" from yoga and applies them to the act of eating.
The result?
Peggy says you'll experience peace of mind and a smaller pants size -- without dieting! Here's how it works:
#1 Before eating anything: Wash your hands...and take three slow deep breaths as you do so. This helps you prepare your mind for the experience of eating and automatically prevents mindless noshing on anything that is at hand.
"As you do this, think about what it is you're hungry for -- what would really satisfy you not only physically but emotionally, too," says Peggy. "If you really want a homemade cookie instead of carrot sticks -- that's ok! As long as you follow along with the next step, you'll find peace of mind instead of guilt and weight gain!"
#2 While you're eating: Feel a sense of gratitude for the food, for those who took part in providing it (the farmer, baker, the cashier who sold it to you).
Peggy explains that taking a moment of gratitude puts you in the mood to really enjoy and benefit from the experience.
"Focus on the food," she says. "The colors, texture, aroma, presentation. Remove all other distractions and put your full attention on the act of eating."
Peggy says it's important to chew completely, savoring the flavors, temperature, texture.
Tell yourself: "This is so good. This is exactly what I need. This is nourishing my body, mind, skin, energy."
And if it doesn't -- stop eating it!
#3 After eating: Wash your hands again. Peggy explains that this "bookends" the eating experience and signals to your brain that it's time to turn your attention to other things.
"This one step can be the difference between mindless snacking and taking in excess calories and true nourishment," Peggy says. "If you want to eat more, fine, but wash your hands again and go through the entire ritual."
Peggy says that over time, you'll find that you more naturally and effortlessly seek out those foods that truly nourish you -- mind, body and spirit!
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