Wrapping Traps

Image from Vegetarian Times, 9 May, 2017

Whatever else is going on in your life, the delivery system matters; this is quite true of metabolism.  The contents of the "wrap" including our culinary exploits, endeavors in activity, or even hydration matter; but the environment, emotions, engagement of senses, thoughts, attentiveness, judgments, and pleasure we have in the food, fitness, and fluids matter just as much.

This wrap is a favorite of a friend of mine, who keeps them in her vehicle (she gets a lot of windshield time) and calls them her "car tortillas."  She brings them into various establishments and uses them in a number of ways including a hamburger-style creation that is pure genius.  But wraps aren't really the point here - they're just a physical representation for the nuances around our relationship with nourishment that get overlooked.

There is a neurological response at the very thought of a lemon slice.  Without even being present with the lemon slice or even seeing it, if you just think for a second about placing a slice of lemon on your tongue, physiological things take place.  You salivate and certain muscles may even move in involuntary revulsion at the tart taste of lemon in your memory.  You may think of a loved one giving you sugared lemon as a child (my grandmother did with me anyway).  Your sinuses even prepare for the very unique aroma that is lemon, don't they?

If you approach any experience with self-condemnation, guilt, or shame, your body releases hormones in response to your signals.  "Should" is a spice that is best used sparingly at the table.  Ambiance matters - is the television blaring?  If you're dining out, there's a high chance of that.  Is your tablet or phone or other device on the table like a guest of honor?  Anywhere you are - home or otherwise - with a few obvious exceptions, dining is a great time for airplane mode.

With whom you partake of food, and your encounter with them at the table, impacts your digestion before you ever take a bite.  It takes little effort to sit up, breathe, look at others, smile, and settle yourself into the experience; but - believe it or not - you'll be setting yourself up for better nutrition as you ensure you are nourished in the companionship.  Notice the colors, the music, the aromas - if you're home, how can you add beauty to your experience?  It will pay good dividends to those who invest the time and effort.

Jotting with Johnna

• What have you been wrapping your culinary life in lately?
• How might you curate or begin to cultivate an experience that supports your wellness?
• Where will you start?

Stay tuned.  Stay focused.  Stay well.