Japan's 80% Rule: The Japanese Secret to Mindful Eating and Wellness - The Wabi Sabi Shop

Japan's 80% Rule: The Japanese Secret to Mindful Eating and Wellness

Have you heard about Japan's "80% rule" or "腹八分目" (pronounced "hara hachibunme")?

It's a super interesting concept that has made a big difference in the health of Japanese people, including my dad. It’s all about being mindful of how much we eat and has helped my dad maintain remarkable fitness as he has aged.

My dad always talks about the importance of being aware while eating and would say "腹八分目" a lot. It means that instead of eating until you're completely full, you stop when you feel about 80% full. This way, you don't overeat and keep a healthy balance with food.

The 80% rule has lots of benefits. It helps with managing weight, improves digestion, boosts energy, and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. By being moderate and paying attention to our bodies, we can have a healthier and more mindful way of eating.

Now, I won't lie, it can be a bit challenging at first, especially if we're used to finishing everything on our plate. But with a few simple habits and making mindful choices, we can gradually make it a part of our daily routine.

Here are some easy tips to get us started:

Take your time: Slow down and enjoy your food. Pay attention to the taste, texture, and how you feel while eating. Eating slowly helps you know when you're satisfied.

Watch your portions: Start with smaller servings. Take breaks during your meal to check if you're still hungry or comfortably full. Stop eating when you're about 80% full, even if there's still food left.

Listen to your body: Pay attention to your body's signals of hunger and fullness. Learn to tell if you're physically hungry or just having emotional cravings. Respect what your body really needs.

Aim for balance: Try to have a balanced diet with a variety of healthy foods. This way, you get all the nutrients you need while following the 80% rule.

By taking these small steps, you'll start to experience the awesome benefits of the 80% rule. It's not about strict rules or depriving yourself. It's about finding a good balance and nourishing your body in a sustainable way.

I invite you to join me on this journey of exploring the wisdom behind the 80% rule. Let’s see how it can make a positive impact on our overall well-being. Let's make our health a priority and practice mindful eating together.

Leave us comments below!

Wishing you health and happiness,

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1 comment

Wow! You know I have been eating too much these days and feeling so slumped after. This was a perfect blog post for me! LOL

Leo

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