Slow Food

I really think one of the biggest problems regarding nowadays nutrition, (besides the lack of food in the developing parts of the world) is related to "being in a hurry". Have you ever caught yourself rushing through your day, getting to work, then grabbing a bite along the way for breakfast, working working working, eating garbage at the cantine, and then rushing home to eat whatever´s on the fridge? If so, me too, and it is not good for you.
 The philosophy of yoga teaches us to slow down a bit, to get a break in order to organize yourself. Dona Holleman states that "Yoga is the holiday of the body". I really love that expression, because it does not limit your practice to asana, pranayama, sitting, and the usual stuff. Getting a break in order to pay full attention (attention means a 360° awareness) is already a good practice.

The new movement "Slow food", even if sometimes a bit extreme and complicated to carry out in the modern metropolis, proposes slowing down when going to eat, and using the food resources that mean less environmental impact, eating food produced ethically and respecting life. Have a look at this national geographic article, and decide for yourself.

http://greenliving.nationalgeographic.com/getting-involved-slow-food-movement-2410.html#.TkqiyHWUses.twitter

I strongly suggest anybody who is rushing through their lunch break to get a grip. Make sure you always sit down, eat from a plate (even carboard ones), drink from a glass, and enjoy your food, if possible, chew it well (I can't still manage to pull that one out, it's bad to eat quickly). You will give the body the chance to realize it's time to eat, and not only will you feel more satiated afterwards but you will be relaxed afterwards. I also heard that eating in the company of family and friends can be relaxing and cozy for the mind.

In addition to this, consuming local products reduces environmental damage and promotes local industry. You need not plant your veggies at home, trying to buy products produced as near as possible, you are already doing something. (I try not to go into extremes, I once heard intention leads to a great path)

Cultivation of the opposites is always a very enriching experience. In these rushed times, finding a time for slowing down during the day can certainly be very fullfilling and organizing.