The Art of Mindful Eating: Ayurvedic Principles for a Healthier Digestion.
Metabolic Wellness | Ayur Ai
Dr.Harinee S, B.A.M.S., M.D.(Ayu.)
Updated on AUG 24,2023
"Do you often eat while multitasking, without really paying attention to what you're taking in?"
In this fast-paced society, it's easy to fall into the trap of mindless eating. However, this leads to digestive issues and imbalances in the body according to Ayurveda. Hence, practicing mindful eating is an important aspect of sustaining a healthy digestive system.
Ayurveda emphasizes food as medicine and highlights the importance of consuming wholesome, nourishing foods in the accurate quantity and at the right time. Below are some Ayurvedic principles to practice for mindful eating
Eat in a Calm and Peaceful Environment
Eating in a calm and peaceful environment helps to focus on the food and the act of eating. Avoid distractions like TV or social media while eating and seek a serene atmosphere.
Utilize all five senses
Engage all five sensory organs while eating by appreciating the color, texture, smell, taste and sound of the food. This can help you totally experience and enjoy the meals.
Chew your food well
Digestion begins in the mouth, so chewing the food well aid in the digestive process. It helps in breaking down food into smaller particles for easier absorption.
Eat in Moderation
Overeating burden the digestive system and leads to indigestion, bloating and other issues. Consume food until there is satisfaction, but avoid eating beyond satiety.
Eat according to Prakriti
Ayurveda talks on Prakriti or body constitution types, each with its own distinctive set of dietary guidelines. Eating according to one’s own prakriti help in maintaining balance of three doshas and prevent digestive issues.
Avoid cold, packed and processed foods
Ayurveda suggests intake of warm, freshly cooked meals and avoiding processed, packed and cold foods, which are harder to digest and causing imbalance in the body. By practicing these principles of mindful eating, digestion improves and overall well-being, too. Moreover, following mindfulness while eating helps to connect with the requirements of the body.