Mindful Eating Programs and Training

Mindful Eating Programs and Training

Search
Close this search box.

Eating with my phone or laptop

Michelle May

Meal_Time_Devices

During one of our Am I Hungry? Mindful Eating and Yoga Retreats, one of the topics we discussed was how to move from eating mindlessly to eating with fewer distractions. After the retreat, Gabrielle Allison, a retreat participant and one of our Mindful Eating and Yoga Instructors, shared her observations about eating with a phone or laptop.

Eating with your phone

There were a number of great teaching points in her post so I wanted to share it with you, followed by a few comments:

Experimenting with eating without my phone“As I shared during the retreat, I normally eat most of my meals alone, with my devices – either my phone or my laptop, partly for the company it gives and partly because I feel that I’m being productive.

Over the past year, I have taken the steps to switch back and forth between the tasks of eating and of engaging with my device so I’m more present and aware with both tasks.

What I really noticed at the retreat is how much more I enjoyed the flavors, textures, and experiences of eating when I paid 100% attention to it. So, I’ve been curious about experimenting with not sharing my meal time with my devices.

It’s been both awkward and enjoyable at the same time. It not only allows me to enjoy the eating experience more, I noticed that there’s something about dedicating that time and attention to my meal that feels like I’m honoring myself and the food. The feeling is hard to describe, but it’s nice.

Honestly, I do sometimes feel bored or feel a sense of urgency to be productive. I’ve also noticed it gives me the opportunity to sit with thoughts and feelings that are uncomfortable or painful at times. My good ‘ol laptop served well as a distraction I guess. Other times, I notice how much I enjoy eating mindfully and I’m happy to be away from the screen.

It’s been interesting, and I plan to continue playing with it. The beauty of the mindful eating process is the layers of unraveling. There is no right or wrong and no time lines, just curiosity and self-compassion!”

Thanks Gabrielle! Your post illustrates a number of essential qualities of mindful eating:

  • Mindful eating is a continuous learning process.
  • You don’t have to be perfect! Instead of telling yourself you must eat without any distractions, you can try alternating between eating and other activities.
  • Nonjudgment and self-compassion help you move from perfectionism and guilt to the curiosity and awareness necessary for making lasting change.
  • Experimenting with new behaviors and noticing the benefits reinforces the changes that are most effective for you.
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest

About the Author

Leave A Reply

Your journey is unique so we provide options to explore mindful eating in a way that meets your needs.