How to Improve Your Eating | A Monks Perspective

[@nickkeomahavong01]

How is your current eating habits and what tip resonates with you most?

[@planetvegan7843]

Be vegan to minimize your impact.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

@Nancy Do you mean 3x per day?

[@nickkeomahavong01]

@@planetvegan7843 🙂

[@quorrakai]

A philosophy that I follow is " Food is thy medicine." I try to eat as clean and healthy as I can to fuel and heal the body. I think it's about respect, for the body you are given. Take care of it. I definitely need to give blessings at my meals. I'm thankful for what I have. 😊

[@akira4085]

I did not know this was how buddhists ate, but it was how I was already doing it. So that’s good. Thank you for sharing. I used to smoke. I quit almost 5 years ago by embracing the suffering from withdrawal. It was the only thing that worked. Since then I been eating healthier, and feeling better. Now I embrace Buddhism. It is so awesome. 😀

[@dinashufaniya3921]

Thank U Nick, for shining your light on us. I m 73 yrs old, wife, mother, grandmother, have been learning all my life, but nothing like what comes from you. I feel so priviledged to learn from your deep yet so modest and respect ful to all. Bless you for giving me this opportunity to better myself, even at this age. Your teaching shows me how not to give up, despite all difficulties, including those that come with aging. The love you give, crosses time and space,and heals.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you so much Dina!!!! I’m glad it resonates with you 😊😊😊

[@karaeverman1164]

Thank you so much I needed some serious motivation for mindful eating.

[@Francisesque]

Very eager to hear what you have to say! I'm sure it will benefit many.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Erika 🙂🙂🙂

[@bumbumbumbum1000]

You have been a comforting companion during 10 days of crippling depression.

[@erwinmoon9449]

Ven Nick, thank you very much for sharing your journey, everyday is a new learning, which helps us value more of our present life, keep safe and healthy.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

It's my pleasure erwin. Thank you so much :-)

[@andrew.schaeffer4032]

Hello, thank you for the video. My eating habit is not ritualistic, but fairly mindful. I'm a vegan and lean heavily on dr michael gregor to guide my food choices per nutrition. That said, the choice to be vegan has an ethical basis in James rachel and peter singer's philosophy. Big fruit oatmeal bowls in the morning, and veggie burritos at night is my go-to.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

😊😊

[@hnttakata713]

Mahalo. You are so approachable and real.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂

[@Luke-ofStoke-Factor]

Mindfullness is Respect.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

😊😊

[@annette4660]

I was just at my therapist yesterday telling her that I think I have an unhealthy relationship with food.....and this video pops up on my suggestions this morning. Bless you and thank you for this wonderful video 🙏❤️

[@nickkeomahavong01]

I'm glad you are able to get the support and i'm glad this video was helpful also. thank you annette and yes just go back to the basics when it comes to eating :) you got this!

[@nelliethursday1812]

Today is a milestone 3 weeks without diet Pepsi For me it is an accomplishment because I could not go a day without diet Pepsi. I would always put great effort into quitting and that was the problem. I just let it happen without any effort (I hope this makes sense) it is amazing how much better I feel without that beverage 🤗🤗🤗🤗😁

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful. Congratulations Nellie. Keep it up!

[@Kellytallent23]

Where to purchase such a bowl?? Thank You 🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

This is from the monastery so it’s not for sale.

[@ChrissaBug]

"Keep your eyes on your own bowl" This is such good advice in so many aspects of life! Thank you! Fabulous video!

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂

[@KatrinaDancer]

I spend so much of my time angry about the person next to me with dead animal flesh in their bowl. I hope I can do this.

[@philiplopiano138]

@@KatrinaDancer your assuming that your meals are better somehow then other peooles food choices.dont be so sure about that....

[@ericcartman9521]

@@KatrinaDancer Vegans are often so hypocrite. They don't even know what meat somebody is eaten and immediately assume the worse. While I'm eating a grass fed local cow, for lot's of them, forests getting cut down because they want their nutrients via Soy, Beans or Avocado's.

[@mr.baseball370]

@@KatrinaDancer Remember, your vegan diet results in the death and suffering of thousands of animals every year. It suffers no one and nothing other than your feeling of superiority.

[@lubielu371]

I’m not monk in any means, but I love the culture, the way of living they have and I have some much respect for it. I like the take different aspects of the teachings and adapt them in a way that I’m used to. Even doing some of the habits and the mindsets can make a big impact on your life. But I have so much more to learn! Thank you for being a lovely teacher ❤️

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful my friend. You have the right idea. Take what you can and implement them to your daily life and current situation. Keep up the great work!

[@intentionalliving7326]

Amen sistah! So happy to come across this teaching on the subject and start practicing ✨

[@ananciataodindo7044]

@@shivammathur1158 why do people like you always want to feed others with your believes ??why not start your own channel and talk about Jesus there ??you are absolutely not like Christ he never forced people to follow him he wanted people to make there own choices ,learn to respect others and there believes and way of life.If Jesus is to came today am sure the monk is in a better space spiritual than yourself

[@lubielu371]

@@shivammathur1158 Thankyou for the comment, I understand yes I believe Jesus can lead a holy life. But I simply live a simple life I only take some aspects from other beliefs and adjust them to my life to have balance.

[@addictrogue516]

@@shivammathur1158 rice bag spotted !

[@notezbeinggreencm]

Your wonderful sense of humor is so charming and makes your teachings so enjoyable! 😆 Thank you 🙏🏼 Colleen

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Colleen. I appreciate it 🙂🙂🙂

[@intentionalliving7326]

Yes! So thankful he is such a compassionate bridge between the East and West way of living ✨

[@sheehandavis4158]

Your internal joy is beaming venerable, sir. Please continue to spread these mindful teachings.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Ronald 🙂🙂🙂

[@RealLifeMassMultiplayerRPG]

beaming xD yea

[@TheSimpleBrunette]

Thank you for all these important and helpful tips! I grew up on Burger King and McDonald's. It wasn't until much later on in life that I took eating a little more seriously. I now mostly cook my own meals, grew my own garden, and limit to only 3 meals per day. I take my time to chew my food and mindfully feel each food that I consume and cooked. I still have a long way to go but I'm happy that I've made some changes in my life :)

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thanks for sharing!! and keep up the great work!

[@dhirendrabahadurbista]

Graeat !

[@sanchiacharles3877]

You're doing good ☺️☺️☺️

[@ethicsexistentialism4191]

As someone who has battled with Anorexia for 35 years this video is invaluable. It should be played to every person battling an eating disorder!! Thank you so much Nick. NAMASTE.🙏 Kind regards, Mary from Australia.

[@crystalbelle2349]

Mary, this was the first time I viewed Nick’s video too, and really agree with you that his teachings could help many people who deal with anorexia from different health issues. It has become a late life issue for me now with Parkinson’s and I really took comfort from his video. Had to have my gallbladder removed after it became toxic from gallstones misdiagnosed due to my Parkinson’s so I became very malnourished, am still rebuilding almost 2 years later LoL, so we must never give up. :) Last November my 60th birthday came against all odds, finding me weighing only 74 pounds yet still I’m here. God bless you Sister, from NC in the USA. Namaste’

[@ethicsexistentialism4191]

@@crystalbelle2349 God bless you too 🙏 Trust me, Anorexia is not worth it! It robs you of too much. Fight it with everything you have. You can't let it beat you!! 🙏💖

[@leicalove9384]

I am deeply attached to food. It is as if the consumption could fill the emptyness and replace real connection to human beings but it has come to an end where my body refuses with pain etc. It is so hard to get over the real pain hiding behind the addiction. Thanks for the teaching. ❤ Sending out love to all the people who struggle with their relationship with food.

[@sheilabrennan4481]

I can totally relate... I use it to fulfill and deal with so many emotions. Thank you for your honesty and sharing.

[@clairelouise335]

Totally relate xx

[@vicky5052]

Completely understand x

[@oregonwoodelf]

I've benefited profoundly from adapting a plant based diet almost 6 years ago. My health and my outlook on life has improved beyond words since making this change. I don't judge those who don't follow this way of nourishing their body. However, I have experienced undeniable, unexpected positive karma from the reduction in animal suffering associated with not supporting that industry. At every meal, I am mindfully grateful to have access to all the healthy, clean, nutrient dense foods I could ever need✌🌱

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend. You hit it on the head. It's important for us to examine our own body and see what it needs. Keep up the great work!

[@chrissycox7166]

I want to make this change but I find it hard to abandon the 'convenience' e g. Social eating with business partners. Any tips and tricks?

[@oregonwoodelf]

@@chrissycox7166 The common theme for myself and the countless stories I've heard from other long term plant based people is... You need a powerful "why" to change or break the behavior. I started by stumbling across (thankfully this entered my life, nobody told me to do this) a very disturbing video from inside a slaughterhouse. I then went down the rabbit hole and learned everything there is about how we mistreat and exploit animals. It was sad, disgusting, but also very enlightening and empowering. It opened my mind up to question everything I had unconsciously conformed to. From there, I also learned about the health benefits and the environmental impact. These all created enough of a "why" to easily help me stick with it. I've honestly never had a craving or been tempted to crack. I have a new respect and joy for food now. I still go out and eat around anybody with zero issues. In time you learn to veganize any menu and be confident in your decision around others. Hope that helps and wish you well in your journey. You'll do great!

[@loveartist5043]

Me too man, lost 50 pounds too without starving myself 🙏🤙

[@scottyghouse]

It is the most compassionate diet, good on you for being consistent with your values 🌱🙏

[@dianelamorticella6053]

This sounds like me trying to eat after running after my kids all day, I get one serving of lukewarm stuff and I am grateful for it! 😂😂😂😂

[@Phoenixx758]

Lmao

[@Luke-ofStoke-Factor]

Sounds like your kids Can Watch this Video.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

😄😄

[@vstrut4752]

I have gained a lot of weight since the pandemic started. This video makes me want to do better with eating. I am taking everything you taught to heart. Thank you.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful my friend. Yes slowly adapt to the more healthy habits. you got this!

[@dianaaiello588]

Me too !

[@philiplopiano138]

You will do better and lose the weight you need....

[@heidilynwolff7513]

Eat only one meal a day. After a few days, or weeks, hunger pains will go from 10 down to 2 and vary up and down a bit. If u "fail" who cares? It takes a few tries to really get used to it and get into it emotionally and mentally. When u get your results, you can have your days u eat more then once. Thru this one thing I realized was I DID NOT like my body pushing me around telling me what to do. Haha! Hope this helps.

[@Lisadonna-fy9wz]

@@heidilynwolff7513 love this 🤍

[@reni6771]

I know this is from a year ago, but I'm 15 and just starting out in the Study of Buddhism I find this so helpful and I'm forever grateful to the universe for putting you in my path

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful ren. Keep going my friend 😊

[@amber40494]

Ren--I've been studying and practicing Buddhism for 17 years. It's changed my life! So keep persevering, friend!

[@Archie-23]

Hey Ren, for sure some of the teachings in Buddhism can help us in our lives. I would encourage you though to also think about the teachings of Jesus. He’s not dead but alive and loves you with an everlasting love.🙏

[@larrygiles1603]

Nick, I've got some blood pressure and anxiety/anger issues, and I need to learn a new way of interacting with the world around me. I''ve been watching your videos all day and picking up a few new ways of thinking about life and what I'm doing to myself. I have some changes I need to make and I'm finding some good tools here. Stay well and thank for sharing your information

[@mmmfun77]

I discovered meditation and present moment awareness in 2006 and never looked back. I'm so thankful . It took a LOT of work but I no longer have the 'chattering monkey's in my head'. Thank you for all you do. I have so much respect for you and those who chose that path. ❤

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. and great work my friend 🙂🙂🙂

[@chrischen9589]

I have insomnia. Still haven't figured out meditation. Which meditation video you started. When in the day do you meditate?

[@sherrylynn3304]

@Fun4Life I would be interested in meditation as well and am interested in knowing the answer to the above question as well.

[@monicathrasher3561]

@@chrischen9589look at sleep coach school. He helped me soooooo much!

[@adamcullen8777]

It was SO helpful to have someone openly admit to being human and explain coming from a modern world to the Buddhist world. If you can do it, so can I. Thank you for sharing this information but also, your own struggle to it. Makes me feel like I can do it too.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you so much Adam and yes you can definitely do it! 😊😊

[@goth00000]

Awsome lesson. I try to daily teach my four kids to eat consciously: with respect to others, reflecting on how wonderful it is to have food on the table and mostly with respect to themselves, in order to become better individuals. Thank you 🙏😊❤

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful my friend. That's a great practice 😊

[@vargheseantony9136]

Beautiful. Awesome

[@nancysalgado5027]

That’s such a beautiful and ethical manner to learn in life.

[@Artzenflowers]

I really appreciate what you share, even though I am not a Buddhist but a spirit filled Christian, lover of Jesus, I feel that anyone can benefit from these various precepts. In aging our bodies don’t require as many calories as when we were younger, it’s difficult to find that perfect zone, this will really help me. Thank you. 💝

[@SheffieldShuffle]

I wish more Christians were like you. I think we can all learn something from each other.

[@Artzenflowers]

@@SheffieldShuffle we need to love one another that’s for sure! 🥰

[@jackiefloretan]

@@Artzenflowers smo

[@bhagwankhemundu]

Namha buddha 🙏

[@hymmj147]

Perfect timing: I'm sitting here with indigestion, far too full from overeating Chinese take-out. Our family buys this as a treat once every 30-60 days, and it's so difficult for me to pace myself. I normally measure out portions with homemade food, but take-out for some reason becomes a pig-out. You've given me "food for thought." Thank you, Ven. Nick.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Glad it was helpful! and yes it can be difficult to self regulate with Chinese take out. haha. very hard to resist!

[@hymmj147]

@@nickkeomahavong01 Yes, it is. I'm brewing some herbal tea with ginger, fennel, and peppermint right now, and making a plan to not repeat this next time.

[@radicalaccounting]

food for thought, good pun

[@kokobean240]

Almost same scenario for me; I am miserable right now from over eating a few hours ago.

[@gingerschultz3258]

I think it’s hard with take out because what’s in the food. Lots of salt, sugar, fat, may have msg. It’s addictive

[@TheMoochiecat]

I am a fast eater and it's a constant struggle to stay present in the moment while I eat. Eating mindfully and with manners in particular resonates with me, as well as only taking what I need as opposed to what I think I need. I had hoped you would do a video on this subject and I appreciate it very much. Slowly slowly I am adopting new behaviors and it's been very calming. Thank you so much.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend! Do what you can and slowly integrate these tools :)

[@daffodil614]

Hi, I'm new to your channel, just coming to Buddhism. I found this so interesting as someone who's had a severe restrictive eating disorder for 30 years following childhood trauma, and who struggles to allow myself many comforts (warmth, toiletries, using electricity etc). To others, it looks like self-control and frugality, yet it's resulted in me spending years in hospitals, not being able to work or have a family. It's never been about how I look or my weight, it's about the consumption, the food itself. I find it hard to live in a culture of excess and greed. Thanks for your thoughts, I'm very interested in watching more of your videos.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂

[@toericabaker]

if you have childhood trauma, you need to know about attachment theory! Google for a quiz! it saved me!

[@arunadora5080]

L

[@jeanne7552]

I have the opposite problem... I am too greedy when it comes to food. I need to put the brakes on and eat for nutrition, rather than for entertainment or comfort.

[@versellia]

It's a blessing to even have a meal. Thank you for the tips.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂Its often overlooked and yet one of the most important part of eating.

[@shellywilks883]

Good evening Nick, thank you so much for always providing us with such great content. Mindful eating is definitely a very important topic, thank you👍🥰

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Shelly. Yes eating is so important 🙂🙂🙂

[@shellywilks883]

@@nickkeomahavong01 Nick your contents are all good, but this one was exceptionally good. You are absolutely right in that we were all taught to eat properly, but unfortunately many of us have lost all level of discipline on the basics, myself included. I have to find my way back, I just have to🙏🙏🙏🙏. I am now falling asleep, but I will watch this again☺️. Nick, I appreciate your authenticity so much, wish I had more people like you in my life🙏 🙏🙏🙏🙏🥰🥰🥰🥰🥰❤

[@thegentleempress2559]

Thank you for this. I was curious about this specific subject. I recently started stating gratitude for all the people that are a part of supplying the food I eat, farmers, delivery people etc. It has made a beautiful difference in my meal times.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful! keep up the great work :)

[@lihu7916]

This is a beautiful idea ! Thank you, I will integrate this habit 🤗❤️

[@zhoxzalabrique5749]

❤@The Gentle Empress..Same here! WE clearly share a path! I've been mindful of this for a lonnng time! Grateful to "Divine Source" allowing the preparing & delivering hands! Blessings!🌾Z

[@ManiGupta49]

I do the same! It is deeply rooted in our culture as well and when one is conscious of their food and show gratitude, I found I have really reduced wasting food consciously…

[@richardedward123]

"Food for thought." Thank you, Ven. Nick, for sharing your perspectives on this topic. Very insightful. My Western upbringing, quite different food traditions. Our relationship with food, as humans, is complicated when you think about it.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Yes it can definitely get complicated with our cultures, values, traditions, etc. But thank you for watching Rich!

[@karimabridges8537]

Thank you for this video. I needed to see this today. My 6 yo son and I live in a room. We do not have a dining room or kitchen. Most of the time we eat fast food in the car, or at home on my desk. I have an unhealthy relationship with food. My son has not learning table manners due to my ignorance and living situation. Despite our living situation, I am committed to putting the tools so clearly pointed out in this video. Thank you again for this insight. I especially love how he points out to make each moment an extension of our meditation. Lately, I struggle so much between meditations. I lose my sense of peace and centeredness as soon as something unexpected occurs, or from my childs' demands. I hadn't realized that I can bring my meditation into every situation. And, it's free to do!!!! Mind-blown. Namaste

[@alysononoahu8702]

KZbin has videos on manners

[@haruyoshi8403]

AH, I think I've been needing this insight for a while now. Thank you! I've recently developed a form of binge eating actually...I've been turning to food at the slightest hint of anxiety and I can't say my digestive system nor psychological wellbeing benefits from it. Although I never overeat, I will often eat FAR too much in one sitting or when I'm not hungry or full to bursting. These tips are very enlightening and I intend to keep this advice close in mind as I regulate healthful eating habits and improve my relationship with food. ٩(｡•́‿•̀｡)۶

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend. Yes please use these tools and always connect back to the basics. It is very helpful :-) you got this.

[@svrreservations7023]

What beautiful sentiments. Thank you. I needed this.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much my friend. I'm glad it's helpful 🙂🙂🙂

[@meeyang111]

I was ready to learn about my Hmong identity and your videos came into my life. Your message resonates with my parents teachings from childhood such as, "eat all of your food on your plate" which is so different from being brought up in the US. I've seen friends throw away their food and their kids food after they determined they were "full" completely ignoring the work that went into preparing the meal. Thank you for being, Venerable Nick.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much mee yang 🙂🙂🙂Yes we all need to incorporate more of the mindfulness practice indeed.

[@loulou3786]

wonderful . I think I'm going to attempt a 30 day challenge to implement this awareness around food into my life . Especially at this time of year . I think its going to be SUPER challenging but im curious where it will take me and what I will learn . I so grateful that you make available these trainings that you go through in the monastery so beautifully explained . And such an openness about your own journey . I laughed at your description at the horror of dessert mixed in with every thing ...and Luke warm ! I think I would have cried ...;) im totally high maintenance !

[@uk7769]

Hi Nick. Hola from Florida USA. I'm glad I've stayed tuned in. Florida is hurting again with this pandemic, and we are going down. But you've taught me some skills that give me confidence, that no matter how bad it gets, I can choose equanimity, mindfulness, compassion, and goodness. I'm still a work in progress, but you've given me some amazing tools to work with, that I simply didn't know how to use before. Cheers and thank you sir! Your work in these videos is tremendous.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you so much. Please stay safe my friend 😊

[@13blackmagic13]

What goes down must go up 💙

[@marlenerichardson4429]

Dear Nick, I’m re watching some of your older videos in order to remind myself of your words. I’ve always struggled with food and eating too much. I think after a difficult childhood I’ve sought solace in food. Something you said has stayed with me ‘using food for its intended purpose’. Small words which had a big impact on me and I’ve lost weight just by doing what you said but I know I could slip back into destructive ways so I remind myself everyday and run those words through my head. One thing I wanted to ask, if I may. Are you allowed to drink water at anytime or is it just at meal times. The U.K. has been incredibly hot recently and I’ve drunk water all day, freely but not forgetting some people who don’t have access to clean water. Thankyou x

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wow I’m glad it’s been helping. Keep up the wonderful work. And yes we can drink water anytime. It’s definitely important to stay hydrated. Please continue to keep us updated on your progress 😊

[@quorrakai]

Oh great timing! Just sat down with a cup of herbal tea. Ready to watch and learn! Great topic!!

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful. sadhu sadhu. I hope it's helpful :)

[@quorrakai]

@@nickkeomahavong01 Absolutely!! I love your stories, they are always entertaining but with an important message at the end. Keep your eye on your bowl was great! I will definitely be using these tips going forward! Thank you!

[@nickkeomahavong01]

@@quorrakai :)

[@ruwuthdraft7926]

I feel blessed to have your videos on my recommendation never in my life I was taught all this things and I'm lucky enough to learn it now because It's never too late to learn new things amd start practicing it. Thank you so much.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend. Thank you so much 😊

[@yvonnevandenherreweghe7031]

The Monk's teaching has furthered my mindfulness in all areas. I feel so much better as I follow this path. Blessings, Ven. Nick !

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Sadhu Sadhu 😊 thank you

[@mariportelaaa]

Such good advice! I have been struggling with anorexia nervosa for 2 years and seeing food as nourishment and fuel rather than something to fear really helps. Thank you so much, truly!

[@nickkeomahavong01]

You're welcome my friend. You got this. Keep us updated on your progress :)

[@motipusha]

I could definitely use this right now, thank you! I am grateful for the wisdom you continue to give to us

[@nickkeomahavong01]

It's a pleasure to share. Thank you so much!

[@jasnamaloca429]

Blessings to you dear ven. Nick, your videos are really life changing. Many levels of my life need to be reorganized and listening to you, everything seems so easy and with such an easy flow. Many wise lessons are coming to me through your videos. Thank you so much for sharing your wisdom with us. Blessings from Croatia, 🙏🙏🙏🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you so much. I'm glad it's helpful. I try to keep it simple and practical ☺️☺️

[@LatikaSoneAkaLT]

Woah 39 mins. I didn't thought i would watch this full video but i did coz everything you said resonates with me. Ever since i turned vegan i had to follow self discipline and i was able to do that by reminding myself of the pain and injustice the animals go through. being mindful of food brought some deep changes in me. I think it made me better than i was before.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend and thank you for sticking with the video the whole way through. Yes it is pretty lengthy :)

[@nlundstrom1]

I love what you said about consuming food for its intended purpose; nourishing and sustaining the body for another day. I’m trying to change my relationship with food to match its purpose; not consuming too much of it.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend 😊

[@leeannswanson1376]

Goodness and kindness eminate from you. Thank you for that, and for teaching me a different perspective. Blessings to you.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much Lee Ann

[@apostolia2124]

I use candies as my "comfort food" very often and i know that this is unhealthy....i sometimes manage to overcome it but unfortynately not evey time......your video poped up in the most right moment! blessings from Greece.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

I'm glad it's helpful my friend 😊😊 thank you

[@pamevega8945]

Thank you very much for the lesson. I really deeply appreciate your time and wisdom. 🙏🏼

[@nickkeomahavong01]

You're welcome. It's a pleasure :-)

[@sweetmusica1793]

Thank you very much for such teachings.....your humble style of sharing is most appreciated and inspiring🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you so much 😊

[@LK-fz7vr]

Thank you nick for your teachings at the monastery 🙏. I hope this reaches you because It definitely correlates with mindfulness practice like you've mentioned about eating. I apply chanting and I think you said in a video that sometimes monks will play a chant while they are working. I think this is great cause it kills two birds with one stone 🙂. Can you do a video on work? When I work sometimes I talk to myself loud enough so I could hear my voice while working. I feel it helps with being mindful with my focus on the task at hand. How do you feel about this? Is do you have any tips on increased mindfulness while accomplishing physical tasks? What is a monks approach to work? Thank you again for the knowledge 🙏.

[@blueheaven4838]

Dear Monk, you are so lovable and there is such a gentleness about you. I am guilty of each and every bad example in this video. I have learnt a lot from this video. Love and regards to you from India.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Sadhu Sadhu 😊😊 thank you so much

[@novaste1238]

LOL! You make me laugh, I'm also very fussy with food mixing/touching - depending on the dish. Thank you so much for sharing this, Nick. My relationship with food is linked to childhood. We were extremely poor and the "best" or most nutritious/tasty meal was dinner time. But because we were so many kids in the house, there wasn't much, so often we were still hungry or wanting another helping, and there was no such thing as leftovers or extra food. So I find that now at dinner time, I usually always have a second helping, even when I'm already full. I am working on this, and will implement the blessing and acknowledging the meal beforehand. Thank you xxx

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful. I'm glad you are aware of that pattern :-) but it makes sense.

[@Cheeseoogus_]

Im starting to get creeped out, whenever I’m about to sleep, he comes up in my recommendation telling me how to sleep , whenever I wake up, he comes up in my recommendation with a morning routine, and now it’s eating? I’m scared. Genuinely 😶

[@brendahorton7270]

Been waiting on this video. Wondering how u went without eating after lunch! I laughed so hard at some of your descriptions and appreciate your honesty throughout the video. Really enjoy listening and learning from you. Have changed a lot of my bad habits since I started your videos. Thank you very much.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you for sharing this Brenda. It's very kind of you. Yes, adjusting our habits is not easy but its possible. I'm glad you enjoyed it :)

[@HiThereImFootloose]

This is quickly becoming my favorite KZbin channel. Thank you for these insights.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you so much my friend 😊 very kind of you.

[@dianabrito7757]

Hi Nick, thank you for sharing the knowledge. This teaching is so powerful! I appreciate your openness to share the pitfalls along the way. That just help me to relate even further. I did toke some notes to try putting the teaching in practice. Blessings from PT. 🇵🇹

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful. Glad it was helpful! thank you diana.

[@SARUJAN5]

Your videos are so inspiring. I just wish I could have the opportunity to become a monk and train in the monastery. My post-graduate life in Switzerland is so frustrating and I have to pay a compensation of 3000 dollars for being unemployed which is impossible to pay off due to the pandemic and lack of jobs. I just want to leave everything and retreat & meditate in a Buddhist Monastery and reduce my suffering.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Maybe one day when things free up you can join us for a short time. Also, there is a European ordination program as well if you are unable to come to Thailand.

[@SARUJAN5]

@@nickkeomahavong01 After this travel restriction goes away, I would love to join you or the ordination program in the EU. What is the duration of a short stay at the monastery?

[@disnalee]

To me paying for higher education is a waste of money. Your in debts after graduating or not. It's very difficult to obtain the job bc you either do not have the experience history. The only place that benefits from it all is the institutes. I'm just glad I went to a community college and graduated but I couldn't get a descent pay in my career choice. The real truth is sad and depressing bc I am working with people who has Bachelor and or Master degrees and I only have an Associate's degree. We are doing the same job for the same pay in the same dept. It's a false promises or quite a great marketing stragetic.

[@jeniefersarmiento4908]

Really enjoyed watching this video while sipping my chamomile tea and eating Ontario Blue Grapes..It gives me relaxation after a long day work..Thanks Ven.Nick..

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful! that sounds very relaxing :)

[@sokuntheasun5796]

Thank you very much for guidance. Just in time.I was asking myself why do i eat? What is for? What do i want from it. I'm working on 2 meals a day after asking myself what is hunger? 2 meals have more time and feel lighter for yoga(breath better). blessing before eating remind myself connection to them, thanks, appreciation and not wastful. Use it as a little reminder the connection to self from meditation state to last throughout the day. This little pause is very helpful to maintain state of being. Feel organize and ease.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful my friend. I love it. Thank you for sharing this and I'm glad it resonates with you. keep up the great practice :)

[@sokuntheasun5796]

I'm so greatfull that you share with us. Normally it keep in close circle but now more people are interested in learning.

[@sokuntheasun5796]

I'm not in any religion(just the name we designate) but I think they offer alternative ways of living. Buddhist is a religious of my country and practice by many generations on my mother side of the family. My mom used to pressure me to be part of or practice. Not so good by her side. My grandpa was a monk for 3_5years. He was practice being a monk till the end of his life even he was no longer in the temple or wearing monk cloth. Great wishdom and inner peace stay with him and spoken very few. Highly inspired my mother to be like him but she never figure it out how her father able to do it and she could not. She tried hard in keeping up with meditation and wish to be like him. On the other hand, I remain nuatral from all religious until today intentionally. I can honestly said i love all very much of great things that each does for the whole but non of them really open to accept outsider in general (or may i say themself) as soon as I not put one above the other only few able to look beyond that. I'm complete without. I choose to stay outside so that I can have clear views and able to study all of the teaching without bias or conflict. I see them as pies of the whole that builds relationship with spirit or self or this is my journey to help me to know what inside my self. Before my mother transition, In hard time I was the only one that was there with her and smile. She asked me the same question that she had her whole life. how can you do that? I was untouch by what was in front of me. The same question she asked her father in her childhood. how can one live beyond what one can see (current self). All I can tell her i was touch by something els far more stronger. find my heart, my spirit and it is uncondition, open and free. I don't use the word "Love" because nothing that is not. I just innately know and regconize it. It is not from the outside of ourself. Words is no good for these. I can sometime feel it with me (eye close or open) but I also know it is out side of this realm of external. I can smell it in the air sometime but I know i can only experience this from the inside. I attempt to share with outside expression to other but some think I'm just a bit odd :). I feel that monks take heavy load in contribution to maintain balance. Front line of divine light to all while walking their journeys. what is the monks secret for staying in blissful state?

[@unickmatanda5465]

Very Helpful indeed , Thank you .

[@jenniferbassfirstchannel]

I’m slowing down on eating. And telling myself eat something healthy at every meal and I tell myself I can have more if hungry but take 1 plate or bowl and eat without tv on in house . Try to after I eat my serving of food I sit and wait to see am I really hungry or thirsty? Lately I been more thirsty than hungry. But I do eat. But it’s I think EXTREMELY IMPORTANT to listen to the body ! I’ve lost weight since doing this. Cut out a lot of dairy and meat and sugar etc . And I always pray over food and drink. The Buddhist monks have got it right ! Definitely need their teachings in USA 🇺🇸 we’d have a better society here look at the obesity epidemic in the world. Definitely follow the teachings of the monks advice being diabetic it’ll save your life! It’s been making a difference in my life. Thank you 🙏 for your wisdom nick!

[@voodoo6821]

This is the reflection, observation, and conversation I’ve been craving. Thank you so much Ven. Nick for enabling the world to share in your wisdom through your videos. Much love, and much respect.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

I'm glad it's helpful sam. Thank you!

[@thathikingguy]

It’s interesting. These teachings are really universal. I am a Christian and will always be but these teachings can really supplement and enhance my beliefs. I thank you so much for offering your time to teach others.

[@SundayBoy72]

Same here. It’s the philosophy of living. All sentient beings deserve a peaceful life. Which path to take depends on how receptive we are to it. Any tools and practice that helps me to be closer to God, I like to learn.

[@ClaudiaCox777]

Thank you for this wonderful share ❤, so many positive takeaways from this message. I'm so glad I found you 🙏

[@hengsiewgin8524]

The simple food is good food and without dinner Sadhu🙏🏻Sadhu🙏🏻Sadhu🙏🏻

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. 🙂🙂🙂

[@loveartist5043]

Who else is eating while watching this 😊

[@nickkeomahavong01]

oh no. hahaha. But thank you for watching my friend. I hope it's helpful.

[@Jillian15]

Nicccccck!!!! Good morning from Australia.🇦🇺🇦🇺🇦🇺 I was starting to miss your posts. 💜🌹🌟✨🌿🍗

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Sadhu sadhu! I'm glad to be able to share Jullian :)

[@jeankelly5859]

This is so interesting, I totally understand you were saying that you are high maintenance I just think that's the way the Western world is.. I totally get the mixed food idea oh my goodness that was gross me out too..especially the soup.. I that actually felt bad for you. A very interesting approach to food I generally am a healthy eater the odd time I do go off a little bit. But I find I eat faster when I eat by myself as opposed to eating with my husband I will eat slow. I guess it's having company to eat with. At times not always I do give thanks for my food and the people who provided it and worked hard to get it to our table. I always look forward to your videos, I haven't caught up to all of them but I really enjoy them. I think you are a sweetheart!😊❤..oops Can i say that to a Monk🤔

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Aww thank you for sharing and I'm glad these videos are helpful and relatable :-)

[@kimmielovesparis1]

Thank you for these lessons. A reminder to live on purpose and mindfully. Enjoyed this post so much.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you ☺️☺️

[@Francisesque]

Before the first time you said "respect", I said that word in my head. That's just what you described, and so important to keep in mind.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful! and perfect timing Erika :)

[@bonniewoodard2771]

Thank you So Much! I so appreciate this teaching! Food has been a lifetime of unhappiness :( Now, living alone, at 74 years, I'm able to appreciate your teaching of a healthy relationship with food ... it is a beginning, thank you :)

[@nickkeomahavong01]

You’re welcome Bonnie 😊

[@fayskelley]

Thank you. I can completely relate. All I’d eat under that situation would be soup with vegetables fruit and a protein and rice. I would not be eating any salads or desert mixed in with soup. LOL 😂

[@fredx94]

This is funny, I just started this habit of giving thanks for the food before eating. When I was younger as a german family we did christian prayers before eating, only now am I realizing how much of a difference it makes to my wellbeing. Gratitude is everything

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Beautiful Frederic. I'm glad you picked it back up again. well done!

[@hei444]

I do eat for taste and pleasure, too often and too much. I hope to come back to three decent meals a day again. I very much like the idea of training. For someone with my eating problems eating is really something I have to learn patiently and earnestly. It does not come easily or naturally to me.

[@roseyamauchi244]

Thank you Nick, for always sharing your experience and thoughts about important topics! I was just thinking about how I can improve my eating habits in order to make my holy physical body healthy, as well as the emotional, mental and spiritual body, since they are all one, I think each part is connected to each other. Thanks so much! Greetings from Brazil! 💕🤗😘

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Rose and yes they are all definitely interconnected 🙂🙂🙂

[@biswjitsamal6907]

You,re Amazing 💕 Absolutely right This is our life,our body is a gift from God.. We come to the earth to enjoy everything.. All the creatures,all the things that's surround us🦋 But the sadest truth is maximum people in the earth think don't understand it🕳️ By the way I,m 17 and I really glad to meet a real man..and he is you

[@Meltedbuttercream]

Nick sending you blessings 🧘‍♂️🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you so much my friend 😊

[@infonet3349]

Greate lesson...but why you don't cook yourself?

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Cooking is against the rules for monks.

[@rebeccajourney3183]

I find it so calming and informative to watch your videos and learn something new about your life and also learn how to better take care of myself. I felt badly today so I rested and fasted during the day today. I have reduced my meals to twice a day. I have found that I'm sleeping much better. I drink more water than any other beverage. I think your practice of allowing the elders to serve themselves and being to eat after a blessing and appreciation for where it comes from and those who prepared it, are good practices of respect. I would hope that most persons would have been taught that by their parents. Living in the USA I realize our practices and cultures may be very different. But I know that we can always learn from each other. I enjoy cooking and shopping for my food. Preparing it is joyful and I do try to focus on a more vegetarian meal plan. It makes me feel good to eat fresh foods. I dislike wasting anything so try to be creative with using leftovers. I always try to share my cooking with others who don't cook for themselves so much. I enjoy sharing. Thank you for taking the time to educate us❣ Blessings to you all 🙏 🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

You're welcome my friend and thank you for sharing 😊😊

[@amirrastgoo9711]

The video broke my heart! I was in Bangkok as a teacher, during holidays I used to ride to temple in Saraburi in a village in nowhere with a few monks and 3 laypeople. I would be a layperson there. Then in November 2019 I came back home for a reason and then pandemic happened and since then I haven't been able to return. The video made me remember loads of memories and moments of the temple. Satu Satu Satu.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Sadhu sadhu! hopefully after things settle down, you can come back to visit :)

[@repoocrj]

I so love your raw honesty.. thank you, this was super meaningful to me! 🙏

[@nickkeomahavong01]

I’m glad it’s helpful Rachel 😊

[@PeeweeSmolsASMR]

These videos give me such a sense of peace and tranquility. I am so glad you upload, thank you for your advice and kindness, Ven Nick.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

It's my pleasure. Thank you!

[@dianesimoes8943]

You are such a great teacher for us to learn from.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you so much Diane 🙂🙂

[@mariaa6918]

Very interesting. I am very greatful for you sharing. Thank you. Love and peace to all...

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Thank you so much Maria 😊

[@djphotography0119]

Thank you so much for making this video How beautiful it is that you make effort to explain everything to us meaning of eating a food and monk’s relationship with food Amazing Always grateful Thank Sir 🙏🏻🙏🏻

[@nickkeomahavong01]

My pleasure 😊sadhu sadhu. thank you so much 🙂🙂🙂

[@Sun_Tzu1]

#Why do you seek to make easy money on the internet brother Nick. I hope you are well.

[@padmamohanable]

Was curious and just want to know (if it is ok)…when the monks go out daily and get food offered by the community, do you’ll collectively keep it in the kitchen? Then it is cooked for breakfast n lunch ?

[@nickkeomahavong01]

We typically just eat it all for that day 🙂

[@allison9995]

Vegan for Life!! The body is a garden, not a graveyard

[@nickkeomahavong01]

😊

[@Sammyli99]

One famous forest monastery used to throw, literally all the food in one central bowl and that was it = lucky dip, no thinking: food, eat, done. Think it was Anj.Chan.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

☺️☺️

[@streetsurfer00710]

True spiritual work also involves working to earn your living, including food and not just relying on others to do the hard labor while you get to enjoy meditation. Dichotomy between spirit and body must be integrated for wholistic life. Benedictine monks cultivate discipline of daily labor, not just sitting around and teaching and sharing insights for food. Just my opinion.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Yes maybe one day you can visit the monastery to see from first hand experience 😊

[@leslieneibert2023]

So many reminders - gratefulness, manners, mindfulness, nourishment, etc. Thank you for teaching these valuable lessons. I find that remembering why I am eating and watching the amount (nourishment and mindfulness) are very helpful tips for myself. I will strive to incorporate all the tips.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

Wonderful my friend! Thank you so much 😊

[@kimberlydavis5034]

Is it truly the best to just eat vegetables, fruits, nuts, some rice?

[@Kat-ko4hj]

I love your teaching... always learn something new . Having said that like most people I still have work on my path . I love your calming voice and sincere messages. In kindness ... blessing to you and your fellow monks ... I remember you all in my quiet time . 🙏🏽🇨🇦

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Kat 🙂🙂🙂

[@deeanndaniels3893]

Great teaching video as always, Monk Nick! I appreciate you more than you can ever know! I used to help my Vietnamese friends cook for the monks at the temple, such nice memories you brought me back to! I eat like a monk and didn’t even realize it.

[@nickkeomahavong01]

awww sadhu sadhu. That is so wonderful. Rejoice in your big merits of cooking for the monks Dee Ann :)

[@deeanndaniels3893]

@@nickkeomahavong01 …..Sadhu Sadhu…. 😊

[@elizabethshingola2787]

I love this video. I like how you don't eat to satisfaction and you give thanks. I also like how tea is sipped at a steady pace, like we orbit the sun. ❤🧡💛Ven Nick

[@nickkeomahavong01]

sadhu sadhu. thank you so much Elizabeth 🙂🙂🙂

[@hyp3r-systems838]

some of this advice and practices are good, BUT some of them ARE NOT, some of them are ironically vain, or narsassitic, and finding out how some sects of buddhism are VERY dogmatic, things like a heiarchy for something as simple as eating is egotisical which buddhism is SUPPOSED to banish is the concept and idea of ego and power and control or vanity, etc etc, if a monk wants food then the old parable is the early bird gets the worm, and no human is more important than another esp when its comes to food that NONE of the buddhists bought or grew but was GIVEN by the community, it seems strange that older members should have control over others of when they eat when they themselves were GIVEN the FREE food from the community, some of these things you say are helpful but some of it is ironically VERY CONTRADICTIVE ESPECIALLY when it comes to matters of power and ego which is THE OPPOSITE of what buddhism is about

[@nickkeomahavong01]

That took a turn real quick 🤣🤣