Saturday, September 15, 2007

Mindfulness

Given that Type 2 diabetes usually is accompanied by issues related to eating, and can be a source of stress, as is the case with any chronic illness, mindfulness is a useful concept to consider as one way of coping/managing. A dietitian mentioned it to me a couple of weeks ago, and I've found a couple of links to share here.

What is mindfulness?

Mindfulness points to: Being aware of and paying attention to the moment in
which we find ourselves (
source)


Based on her book, Susan Albers has online a brief overview of mindfulness related to eating. She defines a mindful eater thus:
A mindful eater is nonjudgmental, compassionate and above all aware of the
taste, texture and process of eating. Being mindful means knowing exactly how
your body feels at all times. You are so closely in touch with what is going on
inside that you know the exact moment you are satisfied rather than stuffed or
starving by learning the why, what, when and how you eat. -Susan Albers


From the link, click on the separate links - they're all useful, but I particularly liked the seven habits and four foundations.

The Black Dog Institute, which deals with mood disorders, has a helpful outline of mindfulness that mentions both eating and stress, including mindfulness exercises to try here.

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