We’re surrounded by tempting food choices, distractions from smartphones, computers and the television. As we have all been spending more time at home than usual, you may have noticed that you reach for the snack cupboard simply out of boredom. There’s no wonder we are becoming a nation of mindless eaters who chow down in a flash.
In our recent survey, a whopping 77% of people said they didn’t pay full attention to what they eat. What’s more remarkable is that in the same survey 70% of people admitted that when they do focus on what they eat, they enjoy it more!
If you’ve already reached your goal weight on our TotalFast plan and are now on our Management plan, or are following our FlexiFasting plan, these practical steps will help you become a mindful eater and gain long-term control over your weight.
Steps to become a Mindful Eater and gain back control once achieving your goal weight
Step 1) Eat your Foodpack or healthy meal slowly without distractions
(did you know it takes the brain up to 20 minutes to register that your stomach is full)
Step 2) Engage your senses by thinking about each mouthful.
(Really consider taste, colour, smell and texture of the food and remember to chew slowly)
Step 3) Listen to physical hunger cues
(you might just be thirsty so remember to drink plenty of water – little and often)
Step 4) When a feeling of fullness starts, stop eating.
(It’s ok to leave food on your plate)
Step 5) Distinguish between actual hunger as opposed to non-hunger triggers
(86% of people say that they eat out of boredom)
Step 6) Identify the effects food has on your feelings.
(If you are feeling low do you crave sugary food or so called comfort foods?)
LighterLife’s CBT Mindfulness sessions and weekly meetings explore ideas that help you understand what triggers overeating, with guidance from your personal Mentors.
CBT Mindfulness is a powerful tool to regain control of your eating habits and behaviours. It doesn’t just have to be a temporary change in your life, instead make it a brand-new lifestyle choice to maintain your goal weight for life! #changeispossible.
