Is it possible to Eat Water like Food and yet say we are Drinking ! Wisdom Says it All

Is it possible to Eat Water like Food and yet say we are Drinking !  Wisdom Says it All 

The saying "Drink water like food and eat food like water" carries deep wisdom, advocating for mindfulness in both hydration and nutrition. It emphasizes the need to consume water with the same attentiveness as food and to eat food with the ease and fluidity of drinking water—both of which are often ignored in our modern, rushed lifestyle.

Let's understand the physical process of Eating and Drinking 

• Eating involves consuming solid or semi-solid food that needs to be chewed and broken down before digestion.
• Drinking involves consuming liquids, which do not require chewing and can be swallowed directly.

The Wisdom is Meaningful and highly Action oriented

1. Drink water like food

   • This means water should be consumed with awareness, in a slow, rhythmic manner rather than gulping it down in haste.
   • Water to be taken in mouthful sips (like morsels of food) to ensure that it is mixed with mouth saliva before it is gulped down.
   • Drinking water should be a deliberate act, allowing the body to absorb and utilize it efficiently with time.
   • Need to be conscious of the fact that water plays a crucial role in digestion, circulation, detoxification and emotional stability (as per the Pancha Bhoota system, where water governs emotions).

2. Eat food like water

   • Food should be eaten in a relaxed manner, chewed thoroughly mixed with saliva and consumed with ease, just as we sip water.
   • The digestive process starts in the mouth and eating in a hurried or stressed state leads to improper digestion, gut disorders and mental unrest.
   • This principle ensures better digestion, absorption of nutrients and overall health balance.

To remain Ignorant is no more a bliss. Effects of Non-Compliance of this process in Everyday Life

• Physical Degeneration:

  • Gulping water rapidly can shock the system, disturb digestion and dilute gastric juices, leading to bloating, acidity and impaired metabolism. 
  • Digestion starts in the mouth where Saliva in the mouth is mixed with food to aid and influence the digestion process significantly.
  • Eating hurriedly without proper chewing leads to indigestion, bloating, weight gain and nutrient deficiencies.
  • The gut-brain connection is disrupted, impacting cognitive functions, emotional stability, and overall well-being.

• Water influences Emotional Fluidity and Calmness (Pancha Bhoota Philosophy)

  • Our body comprises 70% of water and Water. As in ancient Bharatiya Philosophy, water  represents Emotional fluidity and Calmness. Improper hydration impacts emotional stability, leading to irritability, impatience and lack of mental clarity.
  • Inadequate digestion due to hurried eating can increase stress, anxiety and intolerance.
  • The rise in impatience and reduced acceptance levels in society can be traced back to unhealthy eating and hydration habits.

Way Forward: Honoring the Saying in Everyday Life

1. Mindful Hydration

   • Start the day with a glass of luke warm water, sipping it slowly.
   • Drink water sitting down rather than standing.
   • Avoid drinking water in a hurry; sip consciously ensuring that it is mixed with saliva before gulping it down..
   • Drink water 30 minutes before and after meals rather than during meals to aid digestion.

2. Mindful Eating

   • Eat in a calm environment, away from distractions like screens or noise.
   • Chew food thoroughly to ensure a fluid like consistency before swallowing.
   • Focus on the flavors and textures of food, enjoying each bite.
   • Avoid overeating by listening to the body's hunger signals. Control portions.

3. Balancing Water Element in the Body

   • Include hydrating foods like fruits, vegetables, and soups.
   • Maintain electrolyte balance by including natural salts and minerals in the diet.
   • Stay hydrated, but avoid excessive consumption of cold water, which can slow digestion.

By making these small yet powerful changes, we can restore emotional stability, improve patience and acceptance levels, and contribute to a healthier, more harmonious society.

Take a Moment to Reflect

If the insights above resonate with you, take a moment to sit in a relaxed state. Breathe deeply, imagining life energy flowing in as you inhale through one nostril and stress leaving as you exhale through the other. May repeat this for several cycles. This simple practice will help clear mind, enhance concentration and bring clarity of thoughts.

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this blog are based on personal experiences and interpretations of subject matter. While the insights shared may be beneficial for personal growth, they should not be considered as professional advice. Readers are encouraged to explore and apply these lessons in a way that aligns with their individual choices & circumstances. Additionally, the meditation technique mentioned is a general mindfulness practice. Those with medical or psychological conditions should consult a professional before adopting new relaxation techniques.