Mindful Eating: A Weekend Retreat November 9, 2012

“Mindfulness is the best seasoning for your food and for your life.” -- Dr. Jan Chozen Bays

“[With mindfulness] you can see the whole world in one raisin, hold the universe and all life in the palm of your hand, and then, of course, in your mouth, too, as it soon becomes a source of nurturance on so many different levels, energy and matter and life itself enlivening and replenishing the body, the heart and the mind.” -- Jon Kabat-Zinn

Mindful eating is an approach that involves bringing one's full attention to the process of eating—to all the tastes, smells, thoughts, and feelings that arise during a meal. This presence and attention can help us bring forward the natural joy of eating once again. When we embrace the sensuality of eating we can appreciate the fullness present in a meal—even before the food reaches the stomach.

During this retreat we will follow aspects of the monastery schedule such as meditation and formal oryoki meals as a way to touch into our body’s innate wisdom of hunger and satisfaction. The structure of the retreat will include discussions, group exercises, and guided meditations to help us look at our habits with food and to develop a more compassionate attitude around eating. Delicious vegetarian meals and laughter are included.

$50 non-refundable deposit required to reserve your space - balance due on arrival. For more information or to register, please to to the web site or call 503-728-0654.

Led by Jan Chozen Bays, MD.
Dr. Jan Bays is a pediatrician, a Zen meditation teacher, mother, and wife. Since 1985 she has been the teacher for Zen Community of Oregon and in 2002 she helped found Great Vow Zen Monastery, where she is currently co-abbot. She has taught and lectured on mindful eating nationally and her book Mindful Eating: A Guide to Rediscovering a Healthy and Joyful Relationship with Food was published by Shambhala in 2009. She has published articles on Zen and meditation in Tricycle and Buddhadharma magazine and is particularly involved in teaching how to use meditation to work with eating disorders and grief.

Official Website: https://www.zendust.org/displayevent/24731