MEDITATING WITH CHOCOLATE

Yes, you read that correctly: using chocolate as a tool to practise mediation.

Not only do you get all the good benefits of meditation itself, such as reducing stress and enhancing self-awareness, but you also get to eat yummy chocolate!

It’s also great if you’re looking to cut back your sugar intake but still have a treat, as you’ll be surprised how little chocolate you actually have to consume to be satisfied.

Here’s how to do it:

1. GET YOUR CHOCOLATE

You’ll want only a small piece, preferably of a chocolate you don’t have often.

This could simply be dark chocolate instead of your usually consumed milk chocolate, or a different brand to what you normally buy.

Hold the piece of chocolate gently or have it nearby.

2. GET COMFORTABLE

You’ll want to sit in such a way that your body is supported and has good posture, but is still able to be relaxed.

Take a few deep breaths and focus on gradually relaxing your muscles. Close your eyes and just notice the sounds around you, then bring your attention to your breathing.

3. NOTICE THE CHOCOLATE

Open your eyes slowly and observe the piece of chcolate in your hand.

Notice the weights, the texture, is it smooth or bumpy?

Next, slowly bring your piece of chocolate up to your nose and breath in the aroma.

Notice when you first get the chocolatey scent, then take a moment simply appreciating the aroma and taking it in.

4. NIBBLE AWAY

Finally, slowly bring the chocolate up to your mouth and take a small nibble, noticing the first taste.

Observe how it feels on your tongue, the flavours and sensations.

As you take another bite, notice how your arm feels as you raise it to your mouth, how the chocolate feels between your fingers.

Relish the moment, and if other thoughts come to mind simply guide your brain back to the present moment.