Hey there, friend. I'm Julia Cartwright, and I'm so glad you're here with me today. You know, the end of December is such a tender time, isn't it? We're between the holidays and the new year, and our bodies are often running on fumes and old habits. Today, I want to help you reconnect with something we've probably rushed through a thousand times this month: eating.

Let's start by taking a breath together. Find a comfortable seat, maybe somewhere quiet. Let your shoulders drop away from your ears. Breathe in slowly through your nose, and out through your mouth like you're fogging a mirror. One more time. Beautiful.

Now, here's what we're going to do. I want you to think about your next meal or snack. It could be in five minutes or five hours. When that moment comes, I want you to practice what I call the three senses pause.

First, look at your food like you're seeing it for the first time. Notice the colors, the textures, the way light hits it. Don't judge it. Just observe it the way a curious child might. Spend about thirty seconds here.

Next, bring it close and smell it. This might sound simple, but so many of us skip this step. Your nose is actually the gatekeeper to real satisfaction. Breathe in those aromas. Let them wake up your appetite. Your body will thank you.

Finally, before you take that first bite, pause. Feel the weight of the fork or food in your hand. Notice the temperature. Then place it in your mouth without chewing just yet. Let it sit there for a second. Feel its texture, its temperature. This is where the magic happens, because you're activating something neuroscientists call sensory satiety. You're telling your brain, "Hey, we're really here for this."

When you actually chew, do it slowly. Aim for at least twenty bites before you swallow. I know that sounds like a lot, but it's honestly the most delicious rebellion against autopilot eating.

The beautiful thing about this practice is that when you slow down, you naturally eat less and enjoy it more. It's not deprivation; it's abundance. You're finally tasting your food instead of just consuming it.

Take this with you today. Just one meal. That's all I'm asking. Be curious instead of critical. Notice instead of rush.

Thank you so much for joining me on Mindful Eating: Daily Guides to Conscious Nutrition. If this resonated with you, please subscribe so you never miss a practice. You deserve to eat in a way that feels peaceful and present.

I'll see you tomorrow.

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This content was created in partnership and with the help of Artificial Intelligence AI