Eating is often overlooked in anxiety, and yet it is a crucial component of the recovery, because food replenishes and strengthens your brain as a well as your body. Unfortunately, eating healthy and regularly is the hardest thing to do, especially when you are at the prongs of anxiety, where low or no appetite is common.
Not eating properly hinders your recovery, so make it a priority and practice eating mindfully.
AT EACH MEAL:
- Listen to your stomach
Even if you are experiencing intense anxiety, your stomach will tell you when it is hungry, just listen to it.
Then determine what amount of food your stomach can take, not your eyes, and make yourself an adequate portion of food (not too small, not too large).
- Be fully aware during you first bites
Savor each bite you take to the fullest.
Notice the taste, temperature, flavors and texture of what is in your mouth while chewing slowly.
- Take your time
Chewing slowly helps increase the flow of saliva, which will make digestion easier on your stomach.
Halfway through your meal, pause and take a sip of water to refresh your palate and check in with tour stomach. Notice how it feels (full, not full).
- Prioritize variety over quantity
Make sure each meal is balanced with a variety of items ( fish and veggies, or meat and pasta, etc…). When meal time is approaching or when you feel hungry, give yourself some time to think about what to eat.
Quantity does not matter as long as you eat a variety of foods for each meal but also from one meal to another.
MINDRISELIFE