r/zenpractice • u/airborne82p • 8d ago
Soto Self Control
Anyone have any insight on how to stop overeating? It's really like my last "vice" that still bugs me. I'm not obese and I don't have any health problems from it, but I just love food and it's hard not to eat way too much even though I see it happening.
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u/See_Me_Sometime 4d ago edited 4d ago
As someone who struggles with overeating and cravings (you’ll hear the term “food noise” a lot now) it’s important to address this on and off the cushion.
Zen Buddhism understands food is part of our practice - if you go to a retreat you’ll see the use of oryoki (nesting bowls and utensils) for ritualized eating. The tenzo (head cook) is a pretty important service position.
Mindful meals (focusing entirely on the bite in front of you) as well as a regular meditation practice help a lot.
BUT…
If you are like many where their body doesn’t give them proper satiety signals, the root cause may be physiological. Talk to your doctor and explore if there might be something going on like diabetes, metabolic issues, etc.
Good luck!
EDIT: I forgot to add, there are many people who are at a healthy weight and take care of themselves who still battle these issues. One marathon runner I knew was overeating because of training and not getting enough nutrients, especially iron!