🌿 3 Cooking Practices to elevate your calm.

1. Master "Mise en Place"

Mise en place is the practice of prepping and measuring every ingredient before you turn on the stove. This is a fundamental skill taught in culinary schools, but it’s a game-changer for home cooks too.

Why it matters: It prevents those "Oh no!" moments. Whether it’s forgetting the tomatoes in a lentil dal (as I mentioned in my last newsletter) or accidentally doubling the baking soda in cornbread (like my friend Sherrie recently did!), having everything pre-measured ensures your recipe is a success instead of ending up in the compost bin.

2. Clean as You Go

A clear space leads to a clear mind. I’ve transitioned from being a messy cook to a neat one by following a simple rule: Start with a blank canvas. * Empty the dishwasher and clear the counters before you start.

• Maintain your workspace while you prep.

• Inspiration: Check out Derek Sarno on YouTube. He is a master of the clean workspace, a phenomenal plant-based chef…and a compassionate human!

3. Cook Without Distractions

Try to make cooking a moving meditation. Avoid the urge to scroll on your phone or have the TV on in the background. Instead:

• Focus solely on the ingredients.

• Put on some calm music.

• Enjoy the sensory experience of chopping, stirring, and seasoning.

The Bottom Line:

When we slow down and prepare, we cook with more intention. Here’s to cooking more plants, composting our food waste, and choosing compassion with every bite we take this year!