Challenge #1 - Mindful Eating

The best way to change what you don't like is to go out and do something about it.  Sounds simple enough but I tend to hear a lot of talk and complaints and rants about how this corporation is terrible or that bill will be horrible if it passes but not a lot of action to counter these problems (I'm talking to you OWS!).  So, I am going to propose challenges to start making us doers instead of just complainers...small tasks that will hopefully start to add up in a big way.  And my first challenge is to eat mindfully!  Now, this can mean different things to different people but as long as you start to consciously think about what you are putting on your plate that is a step in the right direction.  This week, do one of following:

1. Reduce (or eliminate) your consumption of factory farmed meat and dairy.  The agribusiness model of meat production is terrible on so many levels.  Fortunately it seems like most people in the US are already on this trend: http://opinionator.blogs.nytimes.com/2012/01/10/were-eating-less-meat-why/#more-117677.  Not sure where to start?  How about Meatless Mondays: http://www.meatlessmonday.com/

2. Buy local.  The carbon footprint of that Chilian apple is much higher than the apple grown at the local orchard.  Plus, local food tends to be tastier and cheaper!  So hit up your local farmers market, CSA or co-op.  You can find what's near you here: http://www.localharvest.org/

3. Buy in season.  This sort of goes with number 2 as buying local produce will tend to make you buy seasonal.  It's cheaper to get produce in season as well.

4. Buy organic. Who wants pesticides and herbicides in their meal?!  Can't afford all organic and want to know the worst offenders?  Meat and dairy!  Don't eat those?  Then check out the dirty dozen list of produce the Environmental Working Group puts out: http://www.organic.org/articles/showarticle/article-214

5. Grow your own.  Sure, not everyone lives on a farm but even apartment-dwellers can grow some potted herbs.  It is highly satisfying and will give you an appreciation for where your food comes from.

6.  At the supermarket, fill your cart with items from the outer edges of the store (as opposed to the aisles).  This is where the produce, deli and bakeries are = fresh food.  It's more bang for your buck, less preservatives and odd junk in your food, and less packaging.

7. Dumpster Dive!  Ok, not something I've personally done and, admittedly, find it kinda gross, but hey, to each their own.  Also known as freeginism, it's where you "rescue" food that others have thrown out in the trash.  It does help to reduce waste and is very easy on the wallet (read free).

Sure, you may not be able to (or want to) do all of these but that is why I said pick ONE.  You shouldn't feel overwhelmed, just empowered with your choice.  Already doing one of these?  Great, then pick another.  Have another suggestion you don't see on here?  Let me know in the comments!  Happy Eating! :-)