This year’s topic excited me because I think it is important to keep in mind how we can stretch our food supply just a little bit more by being more conscious of food waste. It takes little daily changes to waste less food and it can be achieved by planning ahead, taking inventory of what you currently have on hand, shopping locally, getting creative with leftovers, and store things properly in your kitchen. But I was also excited because I felt like going further with food could also be translated into mindful and intuitive eating practices.
A lot of times we see food as fuel – nutrients and energy. A source of energy to help us get our daily tasks accomplished. Now, of course, all of this is true, but I want to challenge you to think about food as more than that. See food as a whole, not just as energy.
One of the key ways to go further with food is to slow down. Take a breath before eating, remove as many distractions as possible, simply enjoy the experience for what it’s worth. Another thing to keep in mind is how you can flavor your foods to bring you pleasure when eating. Take boring veggies and amp them up with seasonings or by roasting them. Get creative with flavor combinations and bring life back to foods you consume all the time. Lastly, enjoy all foods. Whether it be a salad, a smoothie, or a piece of cake, everyone deserves enjoyment and satisfying foods. Choose foods you actually like to eat and leave the hyperfocus on numbers behind. Enjoy your time with loved ones, embrace the special occasion of everyday life, and remember what it feels like to go further with food.