Why your phone is ruining your dinner (and your diet)
It seems we're living in an era where the dining room table is becoming a relic of the past.
With busy lifestyles, increased screen time, and the rise of meal delivery services, fewer families are gathering around the table for shared meals.
In fact, our January 14-Day Reset includes daily goals of eating all meals at the table (we tried this the first week of December, and failed miserably!)
Why the decline in sitting at the table?
Hectic Schedules: Work commitments and extracurricular activities often leave little time for leisurely meals.
The Allure of Screens: TV dinners and computer-aided meals have become increasingly common - raise your hand if you struggle with putting your phone down, or love taking pictures of your meals before eating them… (we have both hands raised:))
The Rise of Solo Dining: Many people, particularly young adults and those living alone, are opting to eat alone.
That said, there's also a growing awareness of the importance of family meals and their positive impact on mental health, social bonds, and overall well-being. Many families are making efforts to prioritize family dinners and create a shared mealtime experience.
By prioritizing family meals and practicing mindful eating, you can improve your relationships, reduce stress, and support your weight loss journey (mindful eaters eat an average of 200 calories less per meal).
How else does mindful eating contribute to weight loss?
Increased awareness of hunger and fullness cues: Mindful eating helps you tune into your body's signals, allowing you to eat when you're truly hungry and stop when you're satisfied. This can prevent overeating and mindless snacking.
Reduced emotional eating: Mindful eating helps you identify and manage emotional triggers that lead to overeating. By recognizing these triggers and practicing mindful techniques, you can reduce emotional eating and make healthier food choices.
Improved food choices: When you're mindful, you're more likely to choose nutrient-dense foods that nourish your body. You'll pay attention to the colors, textures, and flavors of your food, making each meal a pleasurable experience.
Slower eating pace: Mindful eating encourages you to slow down and savor each bite. This allows your body to register fullness more effectively, preventing overeating.
Reduced stress and anxiety: Mindful eating can help reduce stress and anxiety, which can contribute to weight gain. By practicing mindfulness, you can develop a more positive relationship with food and your body.
By incorporating mindful eating practices into your daily life, you can develop healthier eating habits, improve your overall well-being, and achieve your weight loss goals!