Wednesday Wellness Tool: Mindful Cooking

This is a cooking exercise that's good for the person who's been running from one thing to the next, or who's been lost in repetitive thoughts. It's a great way to slow down and truly get in your senses, without taking up a lot of time. 

Bonus: You get to eat afterwards!

I'm recommending this pesto recipe because it takes 5 minutes and I find the scent of basil alone comforting, never mind the stimulating smell of fresh garlic. If pesto isn't your thing, think of a simple alternative. Just make sure it involves at least one aromatic ingredient that you can really inhale.

Here is the above recipe (to be enjoyed on steamed vegetables, pasta, as a spread, etc.) along with mindful modifications:

1. Print your recipe (or use one in your head) and enter your cooking space without the company of your electronic devices. No phone, no computer, no I-this or I-that. Just YOU and your fresh ingredients. 
2. Feel your feet on the floor. Take a few deep breaths through your belly.
3. Slowly wash your hands with warm water, and notice the sensations of the soap and water on your hands. 
4. Switch the water temperature to cold and wash two cups of basil. Notice the change of temperature on your skin. 
   
5. Pluck the basil leaves from their stems and gently tear them in half. Deeply inhale their aroma before setting them down in the bowl of a food processor or blender.
6. Remove the skin from and slowly slice two cloves of garlic. Notice the crisp, cutting sound and the instant, and very different, aroma they emit. Add them to the basil.
7. Measure out a quarter cup of pine nuts and pour them in your hand before slowly releasing them into the bowl with the basil and garlic.
8. Pulse all ingredients in a food processor, feeling the sensation of the motor and noticing the colors and scents as they combine.
9. Add two thirds of a cup of oil and process until smooth. Notice how the hum of the motor changes as your food transforms. Add salt and pepper.
10. Add a half cup of freshly grated Pecorino cheese and notice yet another, very different smell. Slowly mix and notice the texture change again.
11. Raise the bowl to your face and inhale again. Remove the bowl. Exhale..

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