Mindful Eating: A Weekend Retreat January 11, 2013

“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.

Led by Dr. Jan Chozen Bays.