Tips for healing your relationship to food
It’s unsettling to me that even in – honestly, especially in – the wellness realm there’s so much healing that still needs to be achieved around relating to food. The idea that foods are labeled immoral, toxic, wrong, necessary, etc. is soOooO annoying to me. The reality is this: nutritional healing is not a ladder to the most righteous path of way-to-eat. It’s a really slippery slope when we start feeling more and more righteous for the way we choose to eat… the whole concept of better-than when it comes to nourishment is just plain SiLlY to me. Food is just a part of the system of all that nourishment is. Food has many more processes than nutrition alone. From nervous system regulation to joy to human connection and happiness, nourishment becomes more well-rounded than physical food alone. Here are a few tips to begin healing your relationship to food:
Begin mindful eating: eating with zero distractions (no TV, no work, no eating while driving etc.) and taking a moment before you begin to eat to actually view your plate. Take a deep breath and make sure you are relaxed before you begin.
Begin a gratitude practice: a simple thank you for this meal will suffice :) if you want to get fancy with it, you can tell the person your sharing a meal with what your most grateful for on your plate and why. Example, “I am so grateful its cherry-season. I LOVE the flavor burst of these cherries!!”
Begin noticing how you feel eating certain foods: notice if some foods are filling a craving or void for connection, comfort and happiness. Sometimes we crave sweet things when we are feeling down… the sugar provides a guaranteed dopamine hit. Sometimes instead of extra dessert, we really just need a hug or to phone-a-friend.
In today's world, the relationship we have with food can often be complex and fraught with emotional entanglements. This complexity stems from cultural influences, social pressures, and personal experiences, which can lead to unhealthy habits surrounding food. Mindful eating is a transformative practice that allows individuals to develop a more compassionate relationship with food. By focusing on the act of eating, taking time to savor flavors, and recognizing emotional triggers, one can start to shift perspective. In addition to mindful eating, building a gratitude practice can fundamentally change how we approach meals. Acknowledging where our food comes from, appreciating the flavors, and sharing meals with loved ones enhances our eating experience. Sharing what you're grateful for at the dinner table fosters connection and deepens relationships. Moreover, understanding emotional triggers related to food helps pave the way for healthier choices. By recognizing whether we are eating out of hunger or for emotional comfort, we begin to make conscious decisions about what and why we eat. This awareness can lead to more fulfilling relationships and a balanced lifestyle. As wellness trends continue to evolve, it's essential to focus on holistic nourishment that encompasses physical, emotional, and social aspects of eating. By cultivating mindfulness and gratitude, we can transform our eating habits into a joyful experience that nourishes our bodies and souls.