Cooking Attitude by Aveline Kushi

We keep a copy of the following beautiful suggestions by Aveline Kushi near  the entrance of our communal kitchen at the Kushi Institute for all our students, staff and volunteers to read and contemplate.  Think of Aveline and these words every time you step into the kitchen to prepare a meal:

"Besides having good-quality food and proper cookware, to be a good cook, the right attitude and frame of mind are also necessary. Here is another check list.

1. A cook should leave all worries, problems, and angers behind as he or she relaxes mind and body into a peaceful, calm state of being. A cook's thoughts and emotions are mixed into the food and have an effect on anyone who eats it. Here are some things, among others, to remember while cooking.

A. Pour love and healing vibrations into the food, and imagine that whoever eats it will become healthier and happier.

B. Imagine that the food has the power to help individuals realize their dreams, and that with this tool comes the ability to vitalize and inspire whole civilizations. This is actually true. 

C. Give thanks to the farmer, trucker, storekeeper, nature, the food itself, cookware companies, and anyone else who has made it possible to have these wonderful ingredients and utensils. 

D. A cook can imagine that he or she is composing a symphony or painting a masterpiece as colors, textures, tastes, and smells are arranged into beautiful and dynamic combinations. Anyone who cooks should work to release his or her creativity and intuition. These develop with experience, so be patient and persistent. 

E. Realize that there is always more to learn. One should never become arrogant and think that he or she now knows it all. Be open and learn from everyone. We all have different perspectives and ideas and therefore we all have something to offer."

To learn more about food and energy through our educational programs visit our website at www.kushiinstitute.org.