Mindfulness is more of an attitude than a skill. it’s the ability to let go of the painful thoughts and feelings that may distract us and embrace the uniqueness of each precious moment. Being present, noticing the “now” allows us to recapture some of the playfulness and wonder of childhood, when each of our senses loomed large as we smelled our mother’s cookies baking, petted a soft puppy, or heard the serenade of birds singing after a rainstorm.

When applied to eating, mindfulness enhances our enjoyment and allows us to truly care for ourselves, consuming exactly the amount that’s needed and no more. Though it may not be possible the entire day, when we allow ourselves to be mindful, we more fully experience the gift of being alive.