When the Body Speaks: A Simple Lunch and a Deeper Lesson

It’s starting to get cold outside, and for some of us, this could be the perfect time to head into the kitchen and cook a warm, nourishing meal.

This morning, I was getting ready to go for a walk. It’s a beautiful day—trees are losing their leaves, the sun is shining, and there are so many colors outside that make me smile just by looking out my window.

Sometimes I plan my lunch ahead, but other days I simply ask my body what feels good. I open the refrigerator and see what inspires me. Today, I made a combination of vegetables with portobello mushrooms, spices, and pesto sauce. To make it more nutrient-dense and to add protein, I sprinkled in some hemp seeds, pumpkin seeds, and flaxseeds.

The whole process took less than 20 minutes. I sat down with my plate, started my meal with a bit of raw sauerkraut, and enjoyed every bite—chewing slowly, noticing how my heart felt happy and my body was grateful for something warm.

Not every day feels like this. Not every meal carries the same energy, because every day we are different. We feel different, and we go through different experiences. One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned from working with my clients is to honor where each person is, to hold space for how they feel, and to support them in their own process.

Some days, when I feel stressed or unclear, I take time to walk, listen to music, or write—just to tune in and understand what my body is trying to tell me.

Since I was a young girl, my mother used to tell me to breathe and count to ten when I was upset. Back then, it didn’t make much sense. It wasn’t until I learned to truly feel my body that I understood what she meant. I realized that my nervous system was often dysregulated—and that my body was asking for attention, not dismissal.

Over time, my relationship with stress has evolved. Through different tools and practices, I’ve learned to recognize when stress arises and to take action before it takes over. It’s an ongoing practice, but one I’m deeply grateful for. I’ve worked hard to build resilience and to nurture a relationship where my body and I can communicate clearly.

What small practice helps you move from stress to calm during your day?