mindful food shopping
Right now, it is more tempting than ever to rush through the supermarket in order to get everything we need, touch as little as possible and get it done and out of the way. If you are like me, you know what you want, you buy more or less the same items every week and move through the isles almost on autopilot; missing the perfect moment to be mindful. By slowing down and tuning in before we enter the supermarket, we give ourselves an opportunity to be curious about our food choices, consider the origin of ingredients before us, and question whether our choices are out of habit or intention. Often shifting our selection towards a more intuitive and loving place, better supporting ourselves and the world around us.
Here are a couple of things that you can do to be more mindful in the supermarket
plan your trip in advance.
Having 5 meals planned out in advance really helps you to stay on track as you shop, whilst still allowing for some intuitive purchases. If you are focused on gathering the ingredients you need for each meal, you will be far less likely to pick up the tempting promotions around you. Schedule your shopping trip in your diary and be sure to give yourself more time than you think you need. This way you can take care over your list, and ensure you have everything you need before purchasing. Remember there is no rush.
center yourself before entering
Take two or three deep breaths before going into the store, especially if you are prone to feeling overwhelmed inside the supermarket. Feelings of anxiety can lead to less mindful choices and stress-related purchases. Even as you experience the sights, smells, and sounds inside the supermarket, try to stay present, coming back to your breath as and when necessary.
tune into your senses
Feel your feet against the floor as you wander and the weight of the basket in your arm. Notice what you can smell, especially if your supermarket has a fresh bakery. Notice the bright enticing colours of the fruit and veg ilse, and consider the journey that was necessary for them to arrive before you. Take this without as you select your groceries, considering the origin, labour and transport involved for both farm and factory foods. If you are buying animal products, consider that choice carefully and consider if there is an ethical choice for you. For example, can you swap your usual eggs for free-range?
practice gratitude
As you wander, carefully taking in everything around you, allow yourself a moment of deep gratitude. Gratitude for such abundance before you and all of the people that make nourishing food so easily accessible.
