Move – Taste – Chew – Swallow
How often do we mindlessly follow this simple sequence while eating our meals? I listened to a guided meditation today as I enjoyed my lunch. It was so helpful in slowing down my pace and prompting me to be present with my food and surroundings. I went the bento route again and it was quite nice.
Besides feeling satiated after the meal, I also felt more relaxed, rested, and ready to get back to work. The meal didn’t take any longer than normal, and I feel better for it having engaged with the meal, rather than filling the time with a work, texting, email or catching up on my social feeds, or blog post reading.
At your next meal try focusing on each of these actions; move, taste, chew, and swallow. Pay attention to your body and the sensations that come with each action. Be aware of your sense of touch, taste, smell, hearing, and sight as you eat. As you do this, look for even the tiniest of nuance in feeling or sensation.
Did you notice anything new? How does this exercise affect you sense of time and place? Do you feel rested and relaxed? Or did it have the opposite of effect of leaving you feeling bored or that this was a waste of time? Any outcome is valid and telling and is worth exploring further as you continue the practice.