Food Meditation ~ Eating your way to awareness.

I was surprised to learn recently about the readily accessible and easy way of meditating while eating. Through a little research and trial & error, I learned that it was easy to master and I think one could achieve some profound results through a continued practice.

I started with a piece of watermelon. I looked at it closely, observing its texture and color. I smelled it and touched it, taking it in with all of my senses before I eventually ate it. I chewed it slowly while I continued to meditate on this single piece of watermelon. I thought about where it had come from, the soil it took to grow it, the rain that it drank to become juicy and the sun it absorbed to develop its sweet flavor.

I took at least 5 minutes to eat this single piece in a few bites. I brought all of my attention to tasting and experiencing the energy of this fruit. Incorporating the different senses into my meditation like this resulted in me feeling very relaxed and happy afterwards.

I have tried it since with a hamburger - that did not go so well. I think it was the beef part of it. The suggestion of it even now makes me nauseous. I was nearly grossed out enough to make me consider being a vegetarian. Maybe I will try it again another day in a different frame of mind, but for now, I have stuck with fruits and veggies.

So far, it has been an excellent way to meditate at almost anytime. I have received the benefit of awareness that I would expect from any meditation, as well as become more mindful in my eating. I have also paid more close attention to where the groceries I buy are coming from - buying cruelty & hormone free meats too. It's safe to say that no type of meditation I have ever tried has made such a difference, that it has changed how I shop.

Food meditation is a real win-win and I hope you'll try it sometime.

Enjoy! :)