We're surrounded by the "to go" lifestyle with coffee shops, pastries, and WiFi hotspots everywhere we turn, but we also need to remember to slow down and nurture our mind and soul, too!
The rush of life
Being more mindful in everyday life, especially regarding food and diet, can have a beneficial impact on our health. It brings you back to enjoying the delicious experience that nutritious food offers. It’s a reminder that you can, and should, slow down instead of rushing through your meals. I’m reminded of a wonderful quote from St. Teresa of Avila, which fits perfectly: "Be kind to your body, so your soul enjoys living there."
Diabetes and food
For people with diabetes, a lot of thought around meal planning and nutrition involves matching appropriate insulin doses to the food. For children, parents or caregivers do most of that work. As a teenager, I can remember and completely relate to the ravenous cravings for food! After a fun night out with friends, it would be common for us to swing by a restaurant for some fries or to share the obligatory bag of chips with friends on the train on the way home.
For people who do not take insulin (and hopefully for people who do!), your health care provider may talk to you about lifestyle changes, including diet and exercise, at your appointments. The idea of making lifestyle changes can feel overwhelming. Many may often wonder where to start. Mindful eating can be a great practice to introduce.
Why be mindful?
Food and exercise affect those with diabetes on a daily basis. Mindful eating practices can help to minimize stress around food decisions. Our bodies will thank us. It's also important that we remember to be kind to ourselves as we grow our mindful practices around food and diabetes. What advantages could you gain being more mindful about diet and nutrition?
- This is a "non-diet" approach! We know fad diets don't work long term and aren't often focused on healthier eating habits. Mindful eating means finding a balance and responding appropriately to the needs of your body.
- It is not scary! Mindful eating is judgment-free and without strict rules that would make you feel bad in case of setbacks. You decide the pace!
- The exercises (more on that in the next article) are realistic and feasible.
- As you practice the exercises, you'll develop skills that will last a lifetime. Humans are creatures of habits.
- Mindful eating is all about accepting you and your body holistically. And as a result, you may feel deep satisfaction and healthy motivation to keep growing and learning.
But how does mindful eating actually work? More in the next article!
The mySugr website does not provide medical or legal advice. mySugr blog articles are not scientific articles, but intended for informational purposes only.
Medical or nutritional information on the mySugr website is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always consult a physician or health care provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
