Food is your friend
What you eat literally becomes you. You have a choice of what you are made of. Unknown
Growing up, food was never really celebrated in my culture. Instead, it was viewed as a means of sustenance and maintaining one’s weight and health. You were expected to finish everything on your plate without room for requesting specific dishes. Despite this, I have always loved food, and now as an adult, I can choose what, how, and when to eat.
People often associate food with negative consequences such as weight gain/loss, harm, irritation, pain, discomfort, stress, anxiety, or other forms of suffering. As time passes, we may lose the appreciation for food’s enjoyment factor, which is quite significant. Unfortunately, we sometimes replace the joy of eating with feelings of guilt, which can dictate our food choices and make us resentful if we don’t achieve our desired results. This can lead to disagreements with different perspectives on food and nutrition.
Over the years, my relationship with food has undergone a transformation. Previously, I would sometimes feel deprived or use food as a distraction. I would eat to satisfy my hunger or avoid gaining weight. However, I now prioritize nutritious food that nourishes my body and soul. I make mindful decisions when I eat, savoring every bite and relishing my meals. Moreover, I am attentive to how my body reacts to different foods and drinks.
My love for food matches the love I feel for myself. It is a love expression.
I have discovered that carrying out tasks with love and appreciation can amplify their positive impact on us. This also applies to our relationship with food. When we consume our meals while stressed or with the expectation that it will “fix” us, it may have the opposite effect due to the emotions and energy attached to it. Interestingly, I know individuals who consume foods that bring them joy (even if it doesn’t meet societal standards), yet they still feel and look great. They attribute their success to viewing food as a companion.
Our bodies communicate with us through various signs and signals, but often we are too busy and preoccupied to notice them. Instead, we rely on doctors and others to tell us what we should or shouldn’t do, which may not always be accurate. By tuning in to our body’s messages, we can easily discern what our body requires without any external labeling or guidance.
I want to share some practical ways that helped me change my perspective toward food and stop viewing it as my adversary:
It can make a big difference if you adjust how you speak about your eating habits. For example, instead of saying, “I always eat this when it’s at home,” try saying, “I’m learning to keep this food at home so I can have a more relaxed response.” By changing your language and being kind to yourself, you can remember that the objective isn’t to eat flawlessly (whatever that means) but to feel more comfortable and at ease with food.
Pay attention to your first few bites to become more mindful while eating. Take note of the taste and texture and how you feel while eating. The objective is not to eat less but to remain present and curious. This approach allows you to understand better what is happening within your mind and body during meals. You will start to recognize signals like fullness, cravings, and satisfaction, enabling you to choose the appropriate amount and type of food that feels good for you without the influence of external factors.
Always remember there are no mistakes when learning and making peace with your food choices. Be kind to yourself throughout the process and avoid self-judgment. The more you show yourself compassion, the more you’ll be able to trust your body and listen to it. Permitting yourself to eat the foods that make you happy does not mean neglecting your health. Instead, it’s an act of self-compassion that releases the negative emotions attached to your nutrition. So, let yourself be guided towards a healthier and happier you.
Discovering the right foods for your body is a journey of self-discovery, and maintaining a growth mindset throughout is crucial. Your dietary needs may vary depending on different phases of life, but your body can adapt accordingly. Stay in the moment and enjoy the process.
May this finds your heart open to receive.
