Peace of Food (S2E5)
Mindfulness can be integrated into anything we do, which allows us never to stray too far from our practice. Even when we don't have time or space to practice regularly for extended periods of time, we can still find countless opportunities throughout the day in which to be mindful. This practice explores eating mindfully. This grants you at least a few opportunities each day to practice! Best to have some food in front of you for this practice, whether it's a small snack or a whole meal.
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Transcript
Once you have served yourself some food, pause and take a deep breath. With your eyes open, take in the different shapes, textures, and colors of your food. Give a silent thanks to everyone who has helped make eating this food possible: the waitress or cashier who sold you the food, anyone involved in preparing it, the staff where you bought the food, the delivery people who helped bring the food from the farm to your grocery store or restaurant, the farmers—those who planted, nurtured and harvested the ingredients—even the sun, wind, water, and earth.
Figure out what you'll eat first and become aware of your body. Is your mouth watering or are you tense anywhere? Notice whatever sensations may be present.
Hold your utensils and take a moment to feel them. Pick up some food and feel your arm lift your food toward your mouth.
Open your mouth and put the food in. Before chewing, become aware of what immediately grabs your attention. Notice any tastes, smells, sounds, textures, or physical reactions. Begin to chew slowly, eventually swallowing. Notice any sense of enjoyment and how that enjoyment may ebb and flow as you get sated.
Continue eating in this way, perhaps at a slightly quicker pace without losing your quality of attention.
