Zen-cuisine and the Brain: Part 2

Our exploration of zen-cuisine is enhanced by recent advances in neuroscience. Current research on connectivity can record neural circuitry at the single-cell level. We now know the brain continually reshapes itself according to the on-going flow of experience. How does this impact our daily lives, especially in the kitchen?As we broaden our understanding the tools zen-cuisine uses to open to this new knowledge,our awareness grows.

If we are practicing a new technique, or making a first-time recipe, the circuitry we use will attract new neurons, and be strengthened. The second time we perform the new skill or make the new dish, it will be easier. If we approach tasks with this knowledge, we are more relaxed, more likely to enjoy our experience. We are mindful and at ease in the kitchen.

If we’re changing a habit, like substituting a more wholesome ingredient for a less healthy one in a favorite recipe, we understand new connections are being made. Zen-cuisine suggests we take a breath, ground ourselves in awareness of this process. We are mindful; approaching each task in the kitchen with care. We know new neural circuitry is forming. It will continue to grow as we practice again and again. 

If we usually cook on ‘automatic pilot’,  we often find ourselves rushing through the task without awareness. Our this tendency is to lean into the future, to get quickly to the next thing to do. This haste to move through the present moment to the future is another habit. We need to be mindful. This habitual pattern is a reaction we no longer want to have. But in the kitchen we may have rushed through making meals countless times. The neural circuitry of this pattern is well-established.

We realize through past practice of a ‘negative’ behavior a thick circuitry numerous neural connections has built up. Neuroscience provides insight into how we dissolve these pathways through non-use, and by creating new patterns. We use our understanding of meditation and neuroscience to teach our brains a new skill. Our time in the kitchen is a wonderful opportunity to practice.

First, we establish our intention to be mindful. We think deeply about the change we want to make. Being very practical, we take on one specific behavior at a time. After we get a sense of how this ‘energy pattern’ feels in our body, we take a moment to commit to this new way of being and acting. We generate enthusiasm for achieving the change. In doing so we are mobilizing the power of motivation located in the left prefrontal areas of our brain. 

We take a moment to see ourselves in our mind’s eye, practicing the new action with ease.  Remember, the brain begins to hard-wire a new habit the very first time we practice it. The more practice, the more neural connectivity. This gentle step by step approach will enliven the practice of zen-cuisine, and add to enjoyment in the kitchen. Happy Cooking!

 

 “We envision our dream: to live this fresh pattern, making it part of our lives and what we dream unfolds into being” Mei-Kyo. “Zen Gate, Kitchen Door”

For zen-cuisine cooking, visit Juicy Foods