Last Thursday night was very exciting because we had Chef Malena demo several of her favorite recipes to the class!
Here are some of Malena’s recipes and tips from previous programs we’ve had:
- From last year’s mindful eating class
- Winter veggie salad with Balsamic vinaigrette
- Tips for choosing and cutting fruit.
- Malena’s recipes from our August cooking workshop
The night kicked off with Debra asking the class what challenges the group faced over the past week. Many of the participants shared that eating without distractions was much more challenging than they had anticipated. Some shared that it made them feel uncomfortable to eat without the distractions that they were used to having while they ate.
While the class was tasting all the delicious food that Chef Malena was teaching them how to prepare, Debra issued a challenge: Set their forks down between each bite of food! Trust me… it’s harder than it seems!
HOME ASSIGNMENT: Pick one meal a day and set your fork down between each bite of food.
As the class wrapped up, Debra’s challenge to the class during week 2 was to continue to practice slowing down while eating meals. Many people eat too quickly which can lead to overeating. This is because when you eat too fast, your body’s satiety cues don’t have a chance to tell your brain that your stomach is full. This leaves us with the “overstuffed” feeling.
HOME ASSIGNMENT: Time how long it takes you to eat your typical meal. Note whether you feel rushed and distracted while you eat. Or do you feel calm and take your time?
Here are the recipes that Chef Malena prepared for the group:
HOME ASSIGNMENT: Try one of the new recipes!
At the end of the class, participants were very enthusiastic about trying the new recipes from Chef Malena and the group was optimistic in successfully accomplishing this week’s new challenge.
We hope that some of you at home will also take the challenge!
To connect with Debra’s support online in, be sure to check her out at the following:
Let me know how it’s going for you!
– Julie
