Mindful Eating
Today we look at something I ask my clients to do when I want them to connect to the present; Mindful Eating.
Every Thursday, we combine the joy of cooking and eating with the mindfulness of mental well-being. It's our way of showing how food is not just sustenance for the body, but also nourishment for the mind. Today we look at something I ask my clients to do when I want them to connect to the present; Mindful Eating.
Mindful Eating
The Connection Between Food and Mental Health
The food we eat can significantly affect our mood, energy levels, and overall mental health. A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients supports brain function, boosts mood, and can be a powerful tool in managing stress, anxiety, and depression. In our fast-paced world, taking the time to prepare and enjoy a meal can also be a form of meditation, allowing us to slow down, focus on the present, and appreciate the simpler pleasures in life.
Today, we're not just sharing a recipe; we're sharing an experience - mindful eating. This practice involves paying full attention to the experience of eating and drinking, both inside and outside the body. We notice the colors, smells, textures, flavors, temperatures, and even the sounds of our food. By eating mindfully, we can turn a simple meal into a joyful, rejuvenating experience that nourishes both body and soul. We hope you get something from our tips
How to Practice Mindful Eating:
Start with a Small Portion: Begin with a small amount of food to help focus your attention.
Eat Slowly: Take your time to chew your food thoroughly, which aids in digestion and helps you truly taste your meal.
Eliminate Distractions: Turn off the TV and put away your phone. Make your mealtime a gadget-free zone.
Appreciate Your Food: Think about where your food came from and the effort taken to prepare the meal.
Check In With Your Body: Notice how your body feels as you eat. Are you still hungry, or are you starting to feel full?
The Benefits of Mindful Eating:
Reduces overeating and binge eating
Enhances the enjoyment of meals
Improves digestion
Helps in developing a healthier relationship with food
We encourage you to try mindful eating this Thursday and share your experiences with us. How did it make you feel? Did you notice any difference in your eating habits?
At Orange Counselling and Coaching, we believe in holistic well-being, where mental health, physical health, and nutritional health are interconnected. Food for Thought Thursday is our way of embracing this connection.
Summer Quinoa Salad with Oranges, Fresh Herbs and Cherries
Summer Quinoa is a great reset for the body and soul. Orange Counselling and Coaching.
As the summer sun shines brighter, we turn our attention to refreshing recipes that not only tantalize our taste buds but also offer a moment of mindful enjoyment.
In the spirit of wellness and self-care, we've crafted a summer recipe that's as nourishing for the mind as it is for the body. This simple, yet delicious dish is perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want something light, healthy, and satisfying.
Summer Quinoa Salad
Summer Quinoa Salad with Oranges, Fresh Herbs and Cherries
Ingredients:
1 cup quinoa
2 cups water
Salt to taste
1 large orange, peeled and segmented (hey we are Orange COunselling after all)
1/2 cup chopped fresh herbs (like parsley, mint, or cilantro)
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
Freshly ground black pepper
Optional: Diced cucumber, cherry tomatoes, or avocado for added freshness
Instructions:
Rinse the quinoa under cold water. In a pot, bring water to a boil, add the quinoa and a pinch of salt, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the quinoa is cooked and water is absorbed.
Fluff the cooked quinoa with a fork and let it cool.
In a large bowl, combine the cooled quinoa with orange segments and fresh herbs.
Whisk together olive oil and lemon juice, drizzle over the salad, and toss gently to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Add any additional ingredients if desired. But cut some cherries in quarters. It really makes it.
Serve chilled or at room temperature, and enjoy the burst of summer in every bite!
The Connection Between Food and Well-being
At Orange Counselling and Coaching, we believe in the holistic connection between what we eat and how we feel. A dish like this Summer Quinoa Salad isn't just food for the body; it's food for the soul. The fresh ingredients, the vibrant colors, and the simplicity of the recipe encourage mindfulness and appreciation of the present moment. And includes Oranges!
Why Food for Thought Thursday?
Food for Thought Thursday is our way of integrating mental and physical well-being. It's a reminder that taking care of our dietary needs is a form of self-care and that the act of preparing and enjoying food can be a meditative and therapeutic experience.
Join Us in Celebrating Summer
We invite you to try this recipe and share your thoughts with us. How does preparing and enjoying this dish make you feel? Do you find a sense of calm and satisfaction in the process? Let us know!
Stay tuned for more Food for Thought Thursdays, where we'll continue to explore the delightful intersection of food and mental well-being. Remember, nourishment comes in many forms, and at Orange Counselling and Coaching, we're here to guide you through all of them.