5 Qs to help you eat more mindfully
Behaviour technique
Have you ever eaten something just because it was, well, there? It’s normal. Next time, though, stop and ask yourself the “5 S’s” first. Let us explain.
Try this!
Let’s dive a little deeper…
If you answered yes to any of these questions, take a moment to think about what’s actually driving you to reach for the food. Then, if it doesn’t fit into your Points Budget and isn’t something you’ll truly enjoy (i.e. not worth adjusting your plans for), try these ideas for what to do next.
If the food is right there: It’s science—seeing or smelling a certain food can make you want it more.
Next: Walk away or focus on something else. Creating actual, physical space (or at least mental space) between you and the food can lessen the craving.
If the food is part of the experience: For instance, popcorn at the movies, the pull can be automatic—you get used to things going together.
Next: Pause and ask yourself, "Would I really want to eat this if I was at home doing nothing?"
If the food feels special: It’s normal to want to “treat” yourself. Think limited-edition flavours, childhood favourites, or other foods deemed important.
Next: Shake off the metaphorical gift wrapping. Do you actually want it or just the memory of it or the feeling of a treat?
If the food sounds good: It sends the signal, “Eat this! It’s so delicious!” For example, menu descriptions with words like buttery, creamy, or decadent.
Next: Read the item again, skipping the adjectives, and decide how the plain dish sounds to you.
To be clear, it’s 100-per cent OK to decide, even on-the-fly, to eat cake because you’re at a birthday party or order a dish that sounds like the best thing ever. The goal is to make that choice intentional and one you’ll enjoy and be satisfied with. Because the alternative—letting outside factors drive your choices—can leave you feeling dissatisfied or disappointed.
No matter what you end up doing or eating, just the act of stopping to notice why you might be reaching for a certain food is a win. And even small wins can help fuel this journey.