Body-Mind Reflection

An Integrative Nutrition Assignment

Task
What! Write a letter to my body?
Another country, an island unto itself existing somewhere below the neck?

Perspective
Isn’t one’s physical body an integral part of wholeness —
temple for intellect and emotions, at best an alchemic vessel
melding Mind-Spirit-Soul into essence?

Apology
If so, amends are due to a system complex and miraculous
from a lapsed consciousness that too often overlooks the gift of everyday life.

Regret there is for abuse from a fierce intellect that rejected my chubby child,
enforced starvation diets, ignored pleas for balance,
and forced my body to work without adequate food, water, recreation, or rest.

Gratitude
there is for my youthful body’s natural ability to heal —
for years of beauty, strength, flexibility and agility to run, dance, swim, make music,
make love and birth a beautiful boy, cultivate gardens and create Arts community.

Intention
now is to care for my body with kind moderation —
adequate rest, nutritious delicious foods
restorative baths with home-made sensual body balms,
and a wardrobe of soft flowing fabrics
for daily exercise and gentle yoga.

Practice
To mindfully integrate Primary Foods
Nurturing relationships, Meaningful work, Daily exercise, Spiritual practice
(add Lifelong learning)

with Secondary Foods • Peacefully prepared, Generously shared
More pure water, whole grains, sweet root vegetables, dark leafy greens
fresh organic fruits, berries, beans, seed, lentils, and nuts
(with minimal dairy, animal protein, sugar, caffeine, and alcohol)

Surrender
Embracing aging and mortality with appreciation for a body still fit and strong
Cultivating contentment
Sourcing energy from Inner light
Deepening wisdom to pass on beauty and blessings.

The Goal: Integrative Transformation for Optimal Well Being

Ann West, 2015