A Deliciously Honest Conversation About Mindful Eating
By Njeri Kubania
What if Food Could Talk?
Ever wondered how engaging in mindful eating looks like practically?
Picture this, A burger sizzles confidently on the plate, its crispy edges glistening with a hint of defiance. Nearby, a fresh green salad sits quietly, and a cold soda sweats droplets of condensation…
Burger: “Hey there! Come and get me. I’m everything you’ve been craving all day.”
Me: “Oh, I hear you. But thanks to the psychotherapy team at Nairobi Bariatric Center, I know exactly how to handle you.”
Salad: clears throat “Excuse me, but I’m packed with nutrients, low in calories, and actually good for you, have me instead”
Soda: chimes in “Nobody invited you to this party, Salad. I’m cold, refreshing, and I’ll give you that instant sugar rush!”
The Internal Dialogue
Most of us face an internal battle when making food choices. It’s not about complete deprivation, but about finding a balance that respects both your cravings and your health goals.
Me: “Look, I get it. Sometimes I just want something indulgent. But it’s about making smart choices.”
Burger: “Smart choices? I can be smart! I’ve got protein. I’m not just empty calories.”
Salad: rolls leafy eyes “Protein? More like saturated fat disguised as nutrition.”
Soda: “Don’t listen to the green one. I’m fun! I’m refreshing!”
Mindful Indulgence: The Art of Balanced Eating
Me: “Here’s the thing. I don’t have to completely avoid you, Burger. It’s about how and when I enjoy you.”
Burger: looks intrigued “Go on…”
Me: “Mindful eating means enjoying you in moderation. Maybe I’ll have half of you instead of the whole thing. I’ll pair you with my friend Salad here. And maybe just a small sip of Soda instead of a full glass.”
Salad: perks up “I’m an excellent wingman for balanced meals!”
Soda: “Fine, compromise. But I’m still fabulous.”
Burger: “So, are you saying I can still be part of your life?”
Me: “Absolutely, the team at Nairobi Bariatric Center taught me that no food is the enemy. It’s about balance, understanding, and making intentional choices.”
Burger: looks skeptical “So we have a deal?”
Me: “Yes, we have an understanding.”
Salad: nudges closer “Team balanced nutrition!”
Soda: “Fine, I’ll behave.”
A Tasty Conclusion to Making Mindful Choices
Food is not your enemy. It’s not about strict rules or total deprivation. It’s about conversation, balance, and making choices that make both your taste buds and your body happy.
Whether it’s a burger, a salad, or a cold soda, every food has a place in a balanced diet. The key is listening – really listening – to what your body needs, not just what it wants in the moment.
So the next time you’re facing down a plate of temptation, imagine this conversation.
Remember: You’re the chef of your own nutritional story and you are in control!