Our Mental Relationship to Food
by Craig Morgan
Today, I would like to discuss our mental relationship with food. The mental approach that most people take when trying to change how they eat is a negative one, which focuses primarily on what they shouldn’t have. This is no surprise as most nutrition systems over-emphasize the reduction of calories and pay too little attention to the quality of food. Fewer calories may or may not be the answer in your unique situation and it can easily lead to a mindset- which in my experience working with clients often times prevents success.
The vast majority of individuals I know who look good, feel energetic, and enjoy the many benefits of a healthy lifestyle don’t count calories at all. They don’t go out to eat or to the grocery store thinking, “I shouldn’t have this,” or “I can’t have that.” They don’t approach things from the negative mindset of what they shouldn’t be doing.
They focus on eating natural, whole foods that they enjoy. Foods that in turn also make them feel energetic and work well for their unique metabolism. Their mental approach comes from the positive viewpoint of focusing on what they like and what they know will make them feel good. This subtle shift in mental approach makes all the difference in the world.
As a mental exercise, I want you to play close attention to your thoughts and your “mental approach” when it comes to food. If you find that you are focused primarily on what you can’t have, write down your favorite foods that are also good for you and truly give a boost of energy. After you write them down, focus on working them into your day. Before you know it, you will look back and see how much your nutrition has changed “without even noticing it.”
November 2nd, 2009 at 4:25 pm
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