"Spring is the time of plans and projects" - Leo Tolstoy
Even though today I woke up yet again to strong wind and rain, Spring is already in the air, bringing with her that subtle nudge of the changing season towards renewal and reconnection. This month, I focus on gaining more awareness of the present moment during meals, and how this can foster a deeper connection with food and promote healthier eating habits. Then a suggestion for an easy detox ‘spring clean’ ingredient in preparation for the new season with more energy and vitality.
Well-being through Mindful EatingÂ
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We can all relate to lack of time, busy schedules, eating at our desks, and so on… Commitment to nourishing meals can easily slip into the background, sometimes taking a toll on both our physical and mental health.
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My simple invitation for this Spring is to embrace Mindful Eating as a form of reconnection with self, a pause to the speed of our hectic lives.
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Mindful eating involves creating a moment of calm around one (or more!) of our daily meals by bringing attention to the sensory experience of eating, from the textures to the flavours. This practice not only enhances our relationship with food but also allows us to better manage food choices and stress levels by fostering a sense of gratitude for the nourishment we provide our bodies.Â
Practical tips for incorporating mindful eating in your daily routine:
Start by setting aside dedicated time for meals without distractions like phones or screens
Chew your food slowly, paying attention to its textures and flavours
Engage your senses in the process – the aroma, the visual appeal and the taste
Make conscious food choices that align with your well-being. Â
A short educational video you may find interesting (approx. 2 mins):
Will you try it?
Watercress, the ideal Spring tonicÂ
Since ancient times watercress has been part of Spring cleansing therapies, based on its benefits in purifying the blood, stimulating the liver and gallbladder, and detoxifying winter-sluggish bodies.Â
Watercress has an exceptionally high vitamin C and mineral content, as well as sulfuric oils, iodine and the mustard-like pungent oils that increase the elimination of waste products and toxins.Â
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Best eaten raw, watercress beautiful leaves are the perfect addition to all sorts of salads, and to make soups, pesto, smoothies and fresh juices.
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A shot of freshly-pressed watercress juice (made using a slow-masticating juicer, not a centrifugal one) taken in the morning on an empty stomach just for a few days makes for a very effective spring detox. Dilute with water and/or add a splash of lemon juice to improve the taste. Drinking plenty of pure water across the rest of the day, combined with extra fibre intake, will ensure a swift elimination of the toxins that are mobilised from tissues and processed by the liver.Â
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Click below for more information about health and anti-cancer benefits of watercress, and a watercress smoothie recipe I love:
This is all for now!
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Until next month, very best wishes,
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Silvia
Thank you for reading.
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Please note that any suggestions or information included in this blog do not represent or replace medical advice, and may not be appropriate for you as an individual. For personalised advice look for support from a qualified professional.