Eating mindfully means being fully engaged in your meal; it’s a powerful way to fully experience each bite, tune in to physical senses of hunger and fullness, and avoid overeating. It’s not hard, but it does take practice. Learn to slow down and savor with these tips:

• Breathe. Practice relaxation breathing before beginning your meal.

• Ponder. Appreciate how your food got to the table, including all the work and planning involved. Contemplate how your meal will nourish your body and provide energy throughout the day.

• Take small bites. Taste the flavors — sweet, savory, salty. Enjoy the textures — smooth, chewy, crunchy. Notice each aroma. Fully experience every bite before swallowing. Recognize your hunger signals; when they begin to fade, stop eating.

• Beware. Avoid mindless eating pitfalls and skip the junk food altogether.

Staying mindful will make you more aware of what and how much you’re eating and help turn each meal into a truly nourishing experience.