Mindful eating draws upon the powerful mindfulness insight that we can only experience this moment, that we can only eat this bite. Often we eat the next bite. When we do, we resist what is arising in this moment and distract ourselves with thoughts that urge us into the next moment — the “even better moment.”
You can discern whether the bite of food you are eating in “the next bite” by paying attention to your body. Notice whether you feel an urge or impulse to eat. Notice how quickly you are taking bites. Note whether you are really tasting and smelling the food. Pay attention to your speech as it can often reveal how you are thinking about the experience as opposed to experiencing the moment.
To simply move into the bite, and find release from the “next bite,” close your eyes and bring awareness to your breathing. Notice the energy circulating through your body. Is it “next bite” energy? You can tell if it is. It has an urgency and impatience associated with it.
Notice as you move into “this bite.” To experience “this bite” is to be at greater ease in the moment, just as it is. The bite need not be taken. But we take it as an expression of what is responsive to the moment. We enjoy. We appreciate. From time to time ask yourself, “which bite am I eating?”
