Focusing on Food

It's easy to completely undo any hard workouts or dieting done during the first 10 months of the year during the winter holidays, in a span of 60 days. We make excuses about why we should have that third piece of pie or eat an astonishing amount of food in one sitting. It's easy to do, too, with so much great food and fun. I can't say I haven't been there before myself.

I received an appropriately timed email from Yoga Journal today (best newsletters ever!), and loved the daily insight so much, I just had to share it with you, too. Well, in case you're interested.

"Have you ever heard the saying: 'Calories don't count when you're with friends.'? While that might be a wonderful reminder to let loose and have fun while you're visiting with old friends, unfortunately, the calories, fat, and sugar you take in during that time count just the same as your lonely digressions.

A little indulgence is natural at friendly gatherings and holiday parties. But get carried away and you'll end up bloated, tired, and bummed out. According to Ayurvedic principles, there's a physiological reason for this: When you eat in moderation, your body and mind are happy. But when you eat too much, you overwhelm your agni (the digestive fire), creating chaos in your belly and inviting unpleasant imbalances such as gas, weight gain, and depression.

The key to making sure you're not eating too much in the company of friends—or anywhere else you may be easily distracted—is to bring your awareness back to the task at hand, your food. As a rule of thumb, anytime you're ready to sit down to eat, remove yourself from distractions. Turn off the television, step away from your computer, hang up the phone, or step away from your friends so you can really focus on what you're taking into your body. That way you'll be able to savor the flavors and you'll be able to tell when you've had enough. When you're done, you can re-join the party feeling nourished, but not weighed down."

Thanks to Yoga Journal for the great insight! For more fabulous articles, tips, insight, and information about yoga, be sure to visit www.YogaJournal.com. It's addictive. You have been warned!