Nutrition is such a puzzling topic! There’s so much conflicting information about how to feed and nurture your body that it’s hard to choose exactly what to do. In addition, your body is very different from anyone else’s, so it’s important to tap into your body’s unique wisdom. It is empowering to let your intuition begin guiding your nutritional choices, rather than solely relying on external information.
    Meditation can help you discover answers to your food-related concerns. Take quiet time each day and ask your body what it needs. You might see a vision of lovely vegetables dancing in your head. Knowing your body desires veggies makes them more appealing than if your mind pressures you to eat them because you “should”.
    If an unconventional or surprising idea comes to you, try not to judge it. For instance, if you are meditating around the time of your menstrual cycle, you might start thinking about chocolate. Your first instinct might be to say, “That’s crazy! I just want to eat junk food! That’s not my intuition!” But did you know that chocolate has a high magnesium content, and women often become deficient in that mineral during PMS time? Magnesium is also used up during any time of stress, so your intuition to eat chocolate could be a wise thing! You don’t want to eat a million candy bars, but a small amount of chocolate (or even magnesium supplements) might help you. This example can make you aware that cravings are possibly connected with physical needs and not always emotional issues. Remember, your body’s nutritional needs are always changing, so don’t make one piece of intuition your gospel. Check in with your intuition often.
    Of course, emotions often do affect your food choices. Let’s say you’re walking by a bakery and are tempted to go in and splurge on gooey treats. Instead of rushing in, find a nearby bench (or go back and sit in your car). Still your mind and visualize going into the shop and eating all the stuff you want. Imagine how you will feel as you are eating it: Happy? Guilty? Compulsive? Imagine how you’ll feel an hour later: Pleasantly satisfied? Tired and cranky? Energized? Contemplate your motives: Do you merely want a treat? Are you sabotaging a diet? Are you angry or depressed about something? Once you know where you stand with yourself, make your decision and be at peace with the consequences of your choice.
    At a restaurant, a great idea is to read the menu and then excuse yourself to the restroom before you order. Make your decisions without the clamor of the crowd or the influence of your dining companions. You can be truer to your personal nutritional needs when you have those few quiet minutes alone. And after the meal, go back and repeat the process before ordering dessert!
    Another opportunity to create healthier eating is taking time to chew your food. Once a week, have a meal at a time and place where you can be completely present to the act of eating. Look at the colors of food on your plate, feel the texture in your mouth. Chew slowly and breathe deeply. Close your eyes and repeat a soothing mantra: “I love my body;” “This food nourishes me fully and completely;” or “Mmmmmm!” You will digest your food better and be more able to control the amount you’re eating!
Aluna Michaels, second generation astrologer and soul evolutionist practitioner, holds a Masters in Spiritual Counseling and has been teaching and consulting for more than two decades. Her book, Spiritual Gifts of the 12 Astrological Signs, is now on Amazon in Kindle version. She hosts a monthly Internet radio show on Body Mind Sprit Radio. She is available for readings in her home or by phone. Call 727-239-7179 or visit AlunaMichaels.com. See ad page 52.