Wk 4/Day 25- Mmmmm!

This is an article I wrote as a resource on my new website.  
It's almost ready for the big reveal!

An Exercise in Mindfulness

Go get your favorite treat- Right Now!  Come back, sit down with it, and get ready to experience it on a whole new level.

1. Experience your treat with all of your senses.  

First look at it closely- notice the texture, color,  and sheen.  Notice any variety of color or texture across the food.

Next smell it- does it have a strong smell?  Do have any memories that come to mind because of the smell?  Does that add to the experience?  

Now touch it- is it hot/cold?  smooth/rough?  Is it brittle or flexible?  

Does it make any sound when you smash it or pinch it?

 2. Take 1 bite.  I'm not going to tell you how big the bite should be, that's for you to decide.  As you move through this exercise, try different size bites to see how your experience differs.

3. Focus on what is in your mouth. 
Now the experience is in your mouth, so close your eyes.  Put any utensils down and put your hands in your lap.  
Taste it- where can you taste it the most?  Tip of your tongue, side, middle or back of your tongue?  What do you like best about the flavor?  Are there any parts to the flavor that you don't care for?
Focus on what it feels like- are there different textures to it?  Does it feel different on your lips, tongue, inside your cheek?  Is it hot/cold?  What do you like best about the texture?  Is there any part of the texture you don't care for?
Can you still smell it?  Check by pinching your nose and see if that effects how it tastes.
Listen to any crunching or other sounds as you chew.  Would the experience be different if it were missing it's characteristic sound?

4. Pay attention to why you swallow.  What tells you it's time to swallow?  How many chews are just right for this type of food?  Can you still taste it after you swallow?  What is the lingering taste or texture like?  What do you like or dislike about it?

5.  Intentionally exhale before taking another bite.  Can you still recall what you just experienced?  Are you ready to focus in again on the next bite?  This might be the appropriate time to exclaim "Mmmmm!"

© 2012 Kilgrow Culinary, LLC