Thursday, January 6, 2011

Happy 2011!

Happy 2011! Whether you make New Year resolutions or simple goals for the New Year, we all think of the year to come and all the possibilities it may bring.

My wish for all of you in 2011 is to simply live in the present. With the hectic lives we lead, we never truly live in the moment. We are always trying to plan our next move, and do not take note of what we are experiencing right now.

So, humor me for a second and step away from your computer to go get that orange that is sitting on your counter. You know you’ve wanted to eat it; so just go get it. Oranges in Chinese tradition are seen as good luck so they are given out during the New Year. Before you cut into it or peel it, hold that orange in your hands, feel the weight and texture. Really look at that orange. Breathe in the fragrance. Then, dig your fingers in and peel back the skin. Is it juicy? Is it dry? Does the orange scent fill the room?

Now take a slice of the orange and put it in your mouth, just let it sit on your tongue for a second and slowly chew it. Is it sweet? Is it sour? Does it consume all your taste buds? Did it make you wrinkle your face? Chew it slowly and enjoy the seconds; empty your mind and truly savor it.

Remember this method of eating and enjoying food the next time you have a craving for a piece of cake or something that is not on your eating plan Enjoy food; don’t feel guilty about loving food. Mindful eating is the start to mindful living and leads you down the path to a healthier life, which is essential to surviving in our high-stress world.