There are three types of eating and drinking: it could be a Mitzvah, allowed [but mundane], or forbidden. It is actually possible to make all of your meals those of a mitzvah — if you keep the conditions that will be set forth below. Most importantly, while eating, have in mind that you are eating in order to have the health and strength to serve God, may He be blessed. Pray about your food each time you are about to eat, which is a great obligation according to the Zohar. Likewise, be meticulous to wash Netilas Yadayim properly, as the Sages ordained. Be careful to say your blessings as they were ordained to be said — letter by letter, word by word. More, when you are about to mention the Name of Hashem, remember that it is the King, God of Legions, High and Exalted that you are blessing. It is imperative to be careful about this with all blessings, and in particular with the blessings over food, drink and fragrance — and especially with Birkas Hamazon (Grace After Meals), which is Biblically ordained. If a certain blessing is long, that’s not a reason to rush it; rather, recite it slowly and patiently, as it should be. Think about the fact that when someone extends a thank-you, or some other blessing to another person, they are careful to say it clearly, so all the more so when you are about to bless the King of Glory, Who, in His great kindness, allowed us to bless him and utter His awesome and great Name — even considering it a mitzvah for us to do so and for which He will grant us reward and bounty. So, make sure to recite it properly. As an aid for doing this, say all your blessings out loud, for voice arouses mental focus and it will help you remember whether or not you recited the blessing. Another thing you gain by reciting them aloud is that you will thereby receive the merit of having others respond “Amen!” to your blessings.
If possible, be careful to dip the piece of bread (upon which you recited the Hamotzie blessing) three times in salt.
