food contemplation
food, philosophy, and history
RECENT POSTS
Food has always been important. From being the incentive for civilization to advance to driving nationwide emigration, food has always played a prominent role throughout history. New food inventions have driven the masses into frenzies while a single loaf of bread is often quarreled over in times of destitution. Today, online platforms serve as cyber venues in which various recipes can be shared and ingredients can be easily purchased through a few swipes. However, while there is no shortage of people lauding the tastiness of various foods, fewer take the time to be mindful of their eating habits.
food contemplation
about
mindful eating
Nowadays, many people eat dinner while watching television or scrolling through their phones, eating whatever is in front of them in mindless, repetitive motions. Mindful eating is when you are aware of the present moment as you ingest your meal. In other words, it is paying attention to what and how you eat. Not only does mindful eating help you savor your food more, but it also promotes a healthier diet, as it causes you to focus on what you put in your body.
Mindful eating is about more than simply the flavors on our taste buds; it’s a conscious, intentional way of approaching our meals. It involves being aware. We must be fully present as we eat, engaging all of our senses while truly appreciating the pleasure and nourishment induced by eating.
Today, convenience and instant gratification often take precedence, a trend perpetrated by the wonders of modern technology. Consequently, the art of mindful eating has been neglected. Even disregarding the unwholesomeness of most people’s meals, the simple joy of savoring each bite is often overlooked. As a result, many find themselves overeating and succumbing to mindless snacking, a byproduct of losing touch with our body's natural cues of hunger and satiety.
temple
food
nature
Korean temple food focuses on nature, emphasizing the use of natural ingredients. This includes various vegetables such as mushrooms and cabbage. However, it excludes certain foods such as meat and even milk as they are produced by animals, and in order to eat meat one must first take (the animal's) life. Furthermore, there are five vegetables that are also prohibited: onions, garlic, chives, green onions, and leeks. This is because these foods are thought to hinder the body's ability to find enlightenment through the tranquility of meditation. While this may seem to be a limited, somewhat tasteless diet, Korean temple food uses a variety of natural seasonings to enhance its flavor palette. These taste enhancers range from sauces such as soy sauce, soybean paste, and red pepper paste to spices that come in the finely grounded forms of mushroom and kelp.
about
lessons
As previously mentioned, food plays a significant role in life, and I offer lessons regarding food to children. These lessons include not only Korean temple food and mindful eating but also delve into the health aspects of food and its historical significance. As some children may also struggle with English, I often incorporate English lessons as well. That way, I can offer guidance on two vital subjects.
