“A Love Letter to Chocolate Cake”
Reflecting on the age-old advice of eating healthy often conjures images of salads and cucumbers. “Cucumbers?” But my heart, belly, and mouth all scream in unison, “Chocolate!” From those days, one memory stands out vividly – the indulgence in a slice of Ruby Tuesday’s Chocolate Tall Cake.
Back then, I didn’t have the tools I know now. If only I had, each bite of that luxurious cake – layers of moist chocolate cake and mousse, delicious warm caramel and chocolate sauce, topped with creamy vanilla ice cream and little pieces of Oreo, yum – would have been a celebration of taste and texture.
But how can I eat healthily and still indulge in my love for chocolate? The answer lies in the beautiful practice of mindful eating, a journey that transformed my relationship with food, especially with my beloved chocolate cake or desserts in general, to be fully honest and beyond that with my body.
1. The Chocolate Cake Meditation
Had I known about mindful eating back in those days, each bite of Ruby Tuesday’s Chocolate Tall Cake would have been a celebration. Nowadays, I occasionally treat myself to a moment of meditation while enjoying my dessert. Fully immersing myself in the experience, I savor the diverse flavors and textures, while appreciating the colors and aromas. This practice intensifies my joy of eating and helps me maintain a balanced relationship with food.
2. Tuning into My Body’s Symphony
Mindful eating taught me to listen to my body’s subtle cues of hunger and satisfaction. It’s about enjoying each bite mindfully, understanding when I’ve had just enough – a delightful balance between pleasure and nourishment.
3. Savoring Each Moment
I’ve learned the art of eating while being present, cherishing each mouthful. This isn’t just about pace; it’s about fully experiencing the joy of each bite, making chewing a habit that naturally assists in managing portions and enhancing the dining experience.
4. Immersed in the Experience
Whether alone or with loved ones, mindful eating involves complete presence. It means alternating connecting with the food, our body’s response, then returning to engage with our companions, seamlessly weaving between the joy of the dish, the satisfaction of our bodies, and the warmth of the conversation. This balanced approach enriches the dining experience, making it even more fulfilling.
5. Gratitude for Every Layer
Each piece of that cake, every moment shared with friends or savored in solitude, deserves appreciation. Starting each meal with gratitude enhances the experience, connecting us more deeply with our food and our companions.
Did You Know!
Mindful eating can transform our relationship with food at a neurological level. It rewires our brain’s response to cravings and food stimuli, promoting healthier eating habits.
As I write this, the memory of that chocolate cake, which I believe was discontinued, makes me want to eat one. This desire, however, is different now. It’s informed by my practice of mindful eating, which has taught me to appreciate such cravings not just as desires, but as connections to joyful experiences.
Today, I understand that indulging in such a treat can be a part of a balanced approach to eating – an approach that supports overall wellbeing and why not, our happiness.
Ok! That’s all for now, I hope you enjoyed this story and if you’re intrigued by the idea of transforming your eating habits and rediscovering the pleasure in every bite, feel free to get in touch with me, here.
Do you want to know more?
Mantzios M, Skillett K, and Egan H. (2019). Examining the Effects of Two Mindful Eating Exercises on Chocolate Consumption. European Journal of Health Psychology.
Tapper, K. (2022) Mindful eating: what we know so far. Nutrition Bulletin, 47, 168–185. Available from: https://doi.org/10.1111/nbu.12559
Sansone RA, Sansone LA. (2010). Gratitude and well being: the benefits of appreciation. Psychiatry (Edgmont).
Ready to savor life, one mindful bite at a time?
Olga-Lucía from EQness