For many of us, food and screen go hand-in-hand. Be it having dinner in front of the television, or catching- up on emails while having breakfast, gadgets have become a part of our meal time. But if Ayurveda is to be believed, eating is more than a mechanical act of survival. It is a deep engagement between the body and the mind.
How you eat is just as important as what you eat. “Food isn't just fuel — it’s your daily medicine,” says Dr Partap Chauhan, Founder and Director, Jiva Ayurveda. “But when meals are rushed, distracted, or driven by emotional cravings, the digestive system falters, and the joy of eating fades,” he adds.
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The process of digestion begins long before the food reaches the stomach. “Your senses, especially sight, smell, and touch, prepare the body to receive food. But today, eating while scrolling, rushing through bites, or ignoring true hunger is in fashion. This leads to poor digestion and also a broken relationship with food,” he adds.
Relieve acidity, bloating, fatigue with mindful eating
Dr Chauhan lists these 7 mindful eating practices from Ayurveda that can transform your digestion
- Chew slowly, chew well: Digestion starts in the mouth. Proper chewing mixes food with saliva, easing the burden on your stomach. “Even 20–30 chews per bite can be transformative,” advises Dr Chauhan.
- Always sit down to eat: Posture affects digestion. Eating while walking or standing weakens your digestive fire (Agni). Sit cross-legged if possible, and create a calm space for meals.
- Honour true hunger, not habit: Pause before eating. Are you truly hungry, or simply bored or anxious? “Listening to hunger cues avoids overeating and supports natural metabolism,” he explains.
- Eat fresh, warm meals: Warm, freshly cooked food is easier on the gut. Cold, leftover or processed meals weaken digestion. “The closer your food is to the earth and the kitchen, the better,” he reminds.
- Put your gadgets away: Screens distract the mind, disrupting your connection with food. Try silent, undisturbed meals. You’ll be surprised how much more satisfying food becomes.
- Pray before you eat: “A moment of gratitude activates the parasympathetic nervous system—your rest-and-digest mode. It’s a small habit with a big impact on emotional health and digestion,” shares Dr Chauhan.
- Keep regular meal times: Your body thrives on rhythm. Eating at consistent times regulates your digestive cycle and balances your inner clock. “Nature loves routine—your body is no different,” he says.
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