Mindful eating: How to build a better relationship with food
Hey SEE YOUTH’STERS, Johannes here!
Hey, it’s Johannes again. After chatting about nutrition hacks, I want to dive into something just as important but often overlooked—mindful eating. It’s not just about what you eat, but how and why you eat. Trust me, understanding this can make a huge difference in your health, mood, and even your confidence.
What is mindful eating?
Many of us eat out of habit, boredom, or stress, especially when life gets busy with school, work, or exams. It’s easy to reach for snacks or comfort food without really thinking. Mindful eating means paying attention to your hunger cues, emotions, and enjoying your food without guilt or rushing.
How to practice mindful eating
Slow down: Eat without distractions like your phone or TV. Notice the taste, texture, and smell of your food. This helps your brain register satisfaction and prevents overeating.
Listen to your body: Ask yourself: are you truly hungry, or just bored? If unsure, drink water and wait a few minutes; sometimes thirst disguises itself as hunger.
Enjoy treats without guilt: Mindful eating isn’t about cutting out all your favourite foods. It’s about balance and respecting your body. Enjoy treats occasionally without beating yourself up.
Be kind to yourself: Everyone slips up sometimes. One meal won’t ruin your progress. What counts is the healthy habits you build over time.
Why it matters
Building a better relationship with food is a journey, not a quick fix. When you eat mindfully, you’re nourishing your body and your mind — which helps with focus, energy, and confidence.
Start small, stay curious, and trust yourself.
Keep it real, stay balanced, and enjoy the process!
Need some advice or someone to chat to? Send us a DM on any of our social media pages or email info@seeyouthbycellc.co.za
