Greetings all!
Are you interested in adding more happy and healthy years to your life? How about losing some weight in the process? If so, read on about Hara Hachi Bu, which translates as “Belly 8 parts!”
Side note: By now, I probably could write several books using the well-being tips and advice I learned over the years – but the implementation of those ideas into practice is a bit more challenging! Ideally, I would like to go to sleep and wake up healthier, lighter, and pain-free. Holding out hope for technological breakthroughs in this particular area is nice but in the meantime I am exploring and sharing with you more doable options.
OK, back to Hara Hachi Bu! I was recently reminded about the Blue Zones. You might recall my post “Three Strands of Happiness” that looked at these geographic regions with some of the world’s oldest people, as well as the healthy behaviors they practice that help extend their life spans.
Elder Okinawans in Japan practice the Confucian idea of Hara Hachi Bu - eating until you are 80% full. Do you usually eat until you are just no longer hungry, instead of being stuffed?
I am trying Hara Hachi Bu with these 3 tips:
- Eat smaller portions. This approach does not deprive you of any foods, you eat what you are used to but in smaller quantities! Some people also find it easier to use smaller plates.
- Eat more slowly so your body and brain can tell you when you are full. Did you know it takes the brain about 20-30 minutes to register the message that we are full? This means we continue eating – and stretching out stomachs – for longer than necessary!
- Eat mindfully and focus on food – no TV, books, or phone! I find this one to be challenging, which is telling in itself :)
What did you think? Drop me a line!
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