The Zen of Eating: 8 Mindful Practices for a Sustainable Diet

A sustainable diet is not just about what you eat; it’s about how you eat. By bringing a sense of mindfulness and calm to your meals—the “Zen of eating”—you can transform your relationship with food. A holistic coach shares eight mindful practices.
1. The Practice of Presence. Before you eat, take a moment. Look at your food. Appreciate its colors and textures. This simple act of being present with your meal is the foundation of mindful eating.
2. The Practice of Gratitude. Be grateful for the food you have and the journey it took to get to your plate. This fosters a deeper respect for your nourishment.
3. The Practice of Order. The “smart eating order” is a mindful sequence. By eating your fiber first, you are consciously preparing your body to receive the rest of the meal.
4. The Practice of “Just Enough.” Portion control becomes a mindful practice of listening to your body’s true hunger and satiety signals. Ask yourself, “Is this enough to nourish me?”
5. The Practice of Simplicity. Embrace the simple, profound nourishment of whole foods. A meal of dal and rice can be a meditative experience.
6. The Practice of Non-Waste. Mindfully using leftovers is a way to practice respect for the resources of the earth.
7. The Practice of Pure Hydration. Mindfully sipping water throughout the day is a gentle way to cleanse and care for your body.
8. The Practice of Balance. As you build your plate, mindfully seek a balance of flavors, textures, and nutrients. See your meal as a reflection of the balance you seek in life.