During this webinar, led by Aline Aguilar, an educational and organizational psychologist with over twenty years of experience, the topic of nutritional well-being was discussed. We explored how to be mindful of what we consume and achieve holistic health that brings about happiness.
Our bodies are intricate systems, composed of processes from head to toe. Every dietary choice we make and all the information we absorb directly impact our body and metabolism. Bodily intelligence is activated through sensory stimuli, influencing our behavior and how our bodies assimilate what we provide them.
Aline explained that our body’s functioning is determined by an organic chemistry in constant motion, regulated by hormones. Biochemistry activates our bodily functions and maintains metabolic balance, always seeking to uphold homeostasis, the natural equilibrium of our system.
Hippocrates’ phrase, “You are what you eat, and food is your medicine,” holds significant relevance today, as we face an epidemic of overweight and obesity. Close to 70% of Mexicans are affected by this issue, leading to serious long-term health problems.
To improve our relationship with food, it’s crucial to learn to listen to our bodies and establish a close connection with them. Hunger can be a sign of stress, so instead of waiting until we feel hungry, it’s ideal to have a healthy eating routine.
That’s why, in this webinar, the psychologist shared a series of tips to gently awaken the body and stimulate happiness hormones from the early moments of the day.
Morning ritual to stimulate happiness
Waking up is a pivotal moment in our daily routine, and how we start our morning can significantly impact our overall well-being throughout the day, either positively or negatively. Establishing a morning ritual that promotes health and happiness can make a difference in how we feel physically and emotionally.
1. Start with herbal tea before eating
The first act upon waking is to give our bodies a warm welcome. A great option is to begin with a warm herbal tea without sugar. This beverage is comforting, hydrating, and rich in antioxidants, providing a healthy energy boost. The warmth of herbal tea can also help stimulate the digestive system and prepare the body to receive breakfast nutrients.
2. Protein to kick-start the day
After hydrating with tea, it’s time to provide our bodies with an easily digestible source of protein. Two recommended options are a small cup of unsweetened natural yogurt with six almonds, or a piece of Panela or Oaxaca cheese. These foods offer a healthy and sufficient dose of protein, good fats, and other essential nutrients to start the day with energy and vitality.
3. Avoid sweet foods at all costs
It is crucial to avoid consuming sweet foods on an empty stomach. This is because the pancreas, a key organ in regulating blood sugar levels, produces insulin hormone in response to sugar consumption. Waking up to a surge of insulin can cause an imbalance in the system, leading us to feel more hungry or anxious for unhealthy foods.
After mentioning these tips, the psychologist noted that the food selection process is linked to our emotions, habits, and education. Mindful eating helps us make more conscious decisions about what we eat and how we do it.
The importance of stimulating happiness hormones
We also learned that certain hormones are responsible for regulating our mood, emotional well-being, and sense of fulfillment. Dopamine, known as the “pleasure hormone” or “love hormone,” provides a feeling of satisfaction and motivation. By stimulating dopamine production, we’ll feel happier and more satisfied, reducing the desire to consume unhealthy foods due to negative emotions.
Oxytocin, also called the “affection hormone,” is crucial for forming positive emotional bonds. Feeling loved and cared for increases oxytocin production, generating a sense of well-being and calmness, which directly influences our metabolism.
On the other hand, serotonin is responsible for regulating mood and emotional well-being. Acts of charity and collaboration help maintain a natural balance of serotonin in our bodies, helping us feel happier and more satisfied with our lives.
Our emotions also impact our health, affecting cognitive processes and mood, and can prevent and alleviate illnesses. That’s why the webinar emphasized the importance of being in a constant state of peace and tranquility.
Self-awareness is essential to understand why we choose certain foods and to consciously and gradually modify our habits. By making more informed decisions about our diet, we can empower ourselves to achieve holistic well-being.
Let’s remember that taking care of our bodies, making mindful food choices, and fostering a balance in our hormones and emotions are fundamental pillars to unleash our best personal power every time we eat. With greater self-knowledge and awareness of our needs, we can move towards a healthier and more fulfilling life. Comprehensive wellness is a journey of constant learning and growth, and every small change matters in our journey towards a more satisfying and healthy life.
If you’re interested in the topic, don’t hesitate to watch the full video here: TRANSFORMING YOUR LIFE WITH THE POWER OF NUTRITION.
And remember that every month we’ll be sharing various topics of personal growth with our entire community. At SYAAT, each of our friends who follows us matters.
