In this episode I speak with Edward Espe Brown, a Zen priest, chef, acclaimed cookbook author and teacher. He’s the author of the best-selling Tassajara Bread Book which was published in 1970, as well as No Recipe: Cooking as a Spiritual Practice, among others. Edward talks about the importance of finding your own way in the kitchen as a cook and as an eater—and how you can develop trust in yourself. Edward teaches us what it means to taste food—to really experience it. We talk about the importance of connection—not just with the foods we eat, but also with our bodies, our senses and the people around us—and how connection requires vulnerability. Edward also discusses the importance of enjoying our food, and how enjoyment differs from excitement or greed.
There are so many nuggets of wisdom in this episode, as well as plenty of stories and laughter. I hope you’ll give your attention to it, as Edward says, taking the time to absorb his teachings. And I hope that you’ll leave empowered to find your own way, accepting what shows up for you.
Links and resources mentioned in the show:
*Mind, Body, Spirit, FOOD newsletter: https://mindbodyspiritfood.substack.com/
*Find Nicki on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nickisizemore/
* Find Edward online: https://peacefulseasangha.org/
* No Recipe: Cooking as a Spiritual Practice: https://amzn.to/3KXSL91
* Tassajara Bread Book: https://amzn.to/3Pc46oz
* The Power of Vulnerability, by Brené Brown: https://amzn.to/3PaNNIK