Have You Ever Participated in a Tea Ceremony?
Long before mindfulness or mindful meditation became buzzwords, the tea ceremony was practiced. According to japan-guide.com, the Japanese tea ceremony "is a very important ritual that has a lot of meaning within the culture. The tea ceremony represents purity, tranquility, respect and harmony. A lot of preparation goes into this important event."
I bring it up here because I wonder if the ritual of eating is slipping away because of our busy schedules. How often do you grab a bite and eat it in the car? Or grab a bite and eat it at your desk, or eat while watching a movie or your favorite series?
According to Bjarnadottir, MS, in her article "Mindful Eating 101 - A Beginner's Guide" published on healthline.com, the following list defines and describes the benefits of being mindful while you eat:
- Eating slowly and without distraction
- Listening to physical hunger cues and eating only until you're full
- Distinguishing between true hunger and non-hunger triggers for eating
- Engaging your senses by noticing colors, smells, sounds, textures, and flavors
- Eating to maintain overall health and well-being
- Appreciating your food
Why not take just one of these, for instance eating slowly and without distraction, and notice what you feel? Or as you prepare your lunch, place the items on your plate in a way that pleases you visually. It only takes a little more time. Like a tea ceremony, make your meals and meal preparation a ritual.
At Rancho La Puerta, a health and fitness resort near Tecate, Mexico, one night a week the meals are "silent." It was so interesting to experience being in a group of people while enjoying dinner and having quiet, except for the sounds associated with mealtime.
Being mindful involves noticing your breath, your internal space, as well as your external environment, sensations, and your senses. Bringing mindfulness to your food preparation and to your meals will offer a grace to your culinary experience. Notice if it improves your digestion.