Picture of Meghan McCall

Meghan McCall

Voice & Nutrition Coach

Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn

Breathing for Nutrition (Part 3 of 3): Integrating Breathing Practices into Your Mealtime Routine

Making mindful breathing a regular part of your mealtime routine doesn’t have to be complicated.

 

Start by setting aside a few minutes before each meal to practice the breathing techniques discussed in Part 2. Find a quiet space where you can sit comfortably, away from distractions. Take at least five deep breaths using the 4-7-8 technique or diaphragmatic breathing. This pre-meal ritual helps to prepare your digestive system and sets a peaceful tone for your meal.

During your meal, continue to focus on your breathing. Take a few deep breaths between bites, allowing yourself to fully savor the flavors and textures of your food. This not only enhances digestion but also promotes mindful eating, helping you to recognize when you are full and preventing overeating.

If you feel stressed or rushed, pause and take a few deep breaths to bring your focus back to the present moment and your meal.

To ensure consistency, consider setting reminders or creating a breathing schedule. Over time, these practices will become second nature, leading to better digestion and a more mindful approach to eating.

 

By integrating mindful breathing into your mealtime routine, you can transform your relationship with food and support your overall digestive health. Remember, the simple act of breathing deeply can have profound effects on your well-being 

Related articles

Singer seated cross-legged on a lavender yoga mat, eyes closed in meditation, finger to lips for vocal rest, with a music stand, bottled water, and rolled yoga mat in the background.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Vocal Rest – How to Actually Let Your Voice Heal

True vocal rest means complete silence—no speaking, whispering, humming, or singing—to give your delicate vocal folds time to heal. Use a notepad or text‐to‐speech app for communication, and support recovery with hydration, steam, and anti‐inflammatory foods. Even 24–48 hours of true rest can reset your voice, reduce fatigue, and prepare you for stronger performances.

Read More »
Singer in a black T-shirt clears her throat, hand on her throat, against a neutral background.

Why Throat Clearing Might Be Hurting Your Voice—And What to Do Instead

Throat clearing may feel like a quick fix, but repeated friction inflames your vocal folds and feeds a cycle of irritation. Learn gentle alternatives—like sipping warm liquids, soft humming, steam inhalation, or saline rinses—to protect your voice. Awareness is the first step: notice how often you clear your throat and try low-impact solutions for lasting relief.

Read More »
Singer in a black T-shirt touches her throat with one hand while holding a glass of milk in the other; a milk jug and a glass of water sit on the table, and a blurred music stand appears in the background.

Dairy and Singing – Harmful Habit or Overhyped Myth?

Discover the truth about dairy and singing: while milk doesn’t create new mucus, it can thicken existing mucus and affect vocal clarity for some singers. Learn how to experiment with timing—enjoy dairy 2–3 hours before performing and stay hydrated afterward—or try oat and almond alternatives. Ultimately, it’s about understanding your own voice and making informed choices rather than following blanket rules.

Read More »

Sign up to get articles
to your inbox.