Although volumes have been written about mindfulness, one mindful practice that was introduced to me just a few years ago is the notion of “savoring.” Savoring is an effective mindfulness activity to enhance and prolong positive experiences and ground ourselves in the present. I practice this in the morning while brewing a cup of coffee: I open the bag, breathe in the rich bouquet of roasted beans, drop the beans into the grinder, listen to the whir, pour hot water over the ground coffee, watch steam rise over the mug, warm the milk and slowly blend it into the coffee. I close my eyes, feel the warmth of the cup, and deeply breathe the nutty, robust aroma. Finally, I sip the toasty beverage with a grateful heart.
As we move through our days, many small moments become opportunities to practice. We can savor the sweet scent of lavender hand soap; admire the fluttering leaves on the trees; notice the soft feel of the chair cushion. Bit by bit, we build attentiveness and mindfulness into the day. The more frequently we practice these simple pauses, the more we nourish our brains, bodies, and spirits.
—Excerpted from The Four Connections by Anne Kertz Kernion
Thanks for introducing this idea of savoring.
As pilgrims on journey, we know we are living in times of scarcity.
Nothing and no one can be taken for granted.
In such challenging times, rushing for quantity
can bring about dissipation, loss of focus, and unnecessary frustrations.
Doing due justice to what we are offered is a way of respecting
the Giver of life and Provider of small and big opportunities.
Cultivating and developing savoring strategies can be of immense help.
Thank you for reminding me to savor the moment. After a long afternoon at the hospital I went to the gas station with my daughter. As I waited for her to fill the tank, I was suddenly overwhelmed with awe. There was the most beautiful sunset I had seen, with the multicolored clouds reflecting from the snow covered Andes Mountains. There it was, as if waiting for me.
Love it. I’m always so busy and trying to slow down but I’m usually unsuccessful. I love the thought of ‘savoring’ it’s such an uplifting and positive word. Thanks for sharing your morning.
There’s always such great inspiration on this site!
Just this morning, I sat and watched the quaking birch tree. I was having my quiet time! Just lovely. Thank you