Mindfulness is the practice of being fully present—aware of ourselves, our environment, and each other with curiosity and compassion. In food systems, mindfulness can deepen our connection to what nourishes us and the living systems behind it. 

In May 2023, CoFSA hosted a session exploring how mindfulness can support the shift to more regenerative food systems. Led by Buddhist monk Gelong Thubten, we practiced the foundations of mindfulness. Vera Salvo and Waverli Neuberger from Brazil shared insights from their groundbreaking Mindful Eating for Health Program, rooted in nutrition science, and contemplative practice. We also experienced conscious eating with a tangerine —awakening all our senses to the story, texture, and essence of food. 
We heard from Michael McEvoy, Farm Manager at the Happy Farm Project, on how mindfulness can guide more intentional, caring approaches to farming.