Photo: Kelly Smith
In 2016, I had a short stint of learning loving kindness meditation alongside a group of monks who had invited me to live with them for a few weeks. During this time, I took a vow of silence, meditated for eight hours a day and lived in a small, makeshift, one-room cabin in quiet and solitude. It was during that time I learned the ritual of mindful eating. For the monks, each meal was an act of meditation and gratitude—a chance to acknowledge every step that brought the food to their plate—from the earth’s resources to the hands that harvested, transported and prepared it. This deep connection with each bite encouraged contemplation and appreciation.
If you’re like me and you find that many of your meals are half eaten as you run out the door, consider a mindful eating ritual at your next meal. Set aside distractions, and simply observe your food. Notice its colors, textures and aromas. Then take a slow and intentional bite. Savor the flavors. As you chew, think about all the people and processes involved in bringing that food to you. Send gratitude to each of them, honoring the collective effort that sustains you. Observe how this changes the way you approach the act of eating, and consider adopting the ritual as a regular practice in your life.
Kelly Smith is a local yoga and meditation teacher and the host of the podcast Mindful in Minutes.
