Food nourishes and sustains not only our bodies but also our spirits. It offers a connection to that which is sacred, for in this fast-paced world we live in we can easily lose that connection. Many religious and spiritual beliefs recognize this connection and the rituals and customs for each are varied. In China, prepared meals are placed as sacred offerings on family altars as a way to connect with ancestors and loved ones. In India, the tradition of Ayurvedic medicine is seen as a spiritual science and on that takes into account a person’s emotional, physical and spiritual well being.
Yet although these and many other traditions may vary in their connection with what is sacred, there is a common thread that connects them. It is the recognition that food feeds the spirit as well as the body, that the ritual of planning and preparation is part of the sacred, and that it is a necessary part of sacred connection to give thanks for the food. Preparing and eating a nourishing meal, whether for oneself or for a group, can create a loving and vital energy that can uplift your spirit and bring you in better touch with what is sacred in your life.
The ritual of sacred meal preparation does not have to be complex or elaborate. It can be something as simple as preparing a sandwich or an easy family dinner. However, it’s best to use the freshest and most nutritious food that you can. Look for seasonal produce and use organic food products as often as you can. Limit processed foods and instead look for whole food products such as fruits, vegetables, grains, beans and certain dairy products. If you eat meat, look for meat that does not contain fillers or additives and that comes from animals that were raised in humane conditions. Herbs and spices are a good way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals and they can also raise the spiritual vibration of your meal. For example, basil and cardamom have properties that nurture love, and rosemary can help nurture healing. Look for the freshest herbs and spices available such as at a local farmer’s market or a natural/health food store.
Giving Thanks
Giving thanks is one of the easiest ways to connect with what is sacred both before during and after a mealtime. When preparing your food you can give a silent prayer or simple offering of thanks in accordance with the spiritual practice that you follow. You can also form an intent, such as one of love or joy, and send this energy into the food that you are preparing as a way to heighten the sacred energy of the meal you are about to eat.
Blessing the food is also a common ritual among people of various beliefs and can be done when sitting down to the meal or after eating. These blessings can be as elaborate or as simple as you want and are an important way of connecting with the sacred gifts in our
lives.
Prepare a Sacred Space
Create a place at your table or, wherever you may be having your meal, that invites the sacred. Remove any clutter and add special touches such as a vase of flowers, candles, a colorful tablecloth or anything that invokes beauty. The way you lay your table will depend on which type of meal you’re preparing, but even if it’s just a simple, quick meal for yourself you can simply light a candle as a way of honoring the sacred.
Eat with Mindfulness
So often we rush through our meals without even tasting them. This is not only spiritually depleting but is unhealthy for the body. By eating more mindfully you can connect with what is sacred and also heighten the enjoyment of your meal. Mindful eating is all about eating with awareness; the awareness of the taste, texture and aroma of the food, and the awareness of how it nourishes the body and spirit. Eat your meal as slowly as possible and really taste the food, feel the texture and make each mouthful a mindful and enriching experience. Remove distractions by turning off the television or switching off your cell phone especially if you are eating with other people. Connect with others at the table by having friendly conversation and, if possible, allow yourself to sit and talk for a bit after the meal is finished. You can also spend a few moments of quiet reflection to recall the blessings in your life.
These are but a few ideas of ways make your mealtimes a truly sacred experience. With practice and by listening to your inner wisdom, you can think of and add your own personal touches to each meal.
