Self-Love Through Nourishment

Store-bought chocolates in velvet boxes, heart-shaped candies, and elaborate, multi-course meals traditionally go hand in hand with Valentine’s Day. But why not choose a more mindful way to express affection with food?

Whether you’re looking for an unexpected way to shower your romantic partner with love or indulge in well-deserved self-care, New York City-based wellness chef and holistic nutritionist Shauna Faulisi believes nourishment should be part of your celebration. “I suggest intentionally creating an activity or moment in which you can bring your chosen food into your Valentine’s Day,” says Faulisi, whose Soul Wellness Method focuses on well-being through healthy eating and mindful living. In addition, she says that when using food as a means of self-care, approach it with intention and thought. “All foods can awaken love if you tune into their scent, texture, and the way they dance on the palate.”

Here, Faulisi gives tips for incorporating mindful nourishment into your Valentine’s Day, whether you’re celebrating with a partner or friends or enjoying it solo.

If you’re cooking alone or with family or friends, set an intention before you begin. Faulisi points out that enjoying food with a sense of curiosity and awe allows you to create a moment simply by being present and open to your current experience. “When creating a meal or snack, I always recommend tasting and smelling as you go, says Faulisi, who doesn’t listen to music while she cooks or prepares. “I find cooking in silence connects me more deeply with my food and myself, awakening love. Creating meals and snacks becomes an ode to a meditation practice where the mind is silenced, and there’s peace in your soul.”

As we sift, combine, chop, and peel ingredients, we can enjoy the beautiful and sometimes messy artistic expression that comes with meal preparation. Faulisi suggests thinking of food as a love language.

“Self-expression is our soul’s way to a more authentic life. Our soul needs a creative outlet to flourish, and it allows for growth within our being,” says Faulisi.

Whether making a quick snack, salad, or cheese board, have fun with it. “Cooking, something that is creation at its core, allows us to tap into a child-like flow-state that provides our loved ones and us with nourishment through nutrition and the gift of receiving the time and efforts that went into creating,” says Faulisi.

Lastly, create the time and space to enjoy your self-care ritual fully with all your senses. Remember that you are divine, and your universe and everyone in it begin with you.

Ingredients:

• ¼ cup Lily’s Milk Chocolate Style Baking Chips
• Two tablespoons of coconut oil

Method of Preparation:

1. In a small saucepan, on low heat, stir your ingredients together slowly and often to prevent burning.
2. You can add more chips or coconut oil to create your desired consistency.
3. Serve warm once the chips are melted, and coconut oil is thoroughly mixed, creating a creamy texture.
4. Serve with your favorite fresh fruits, such as pineapples, strawberries, and bananas.