At Laroot, we embrace mindful eating as a core part of our philosophy, anchored in three essential pillars: Discovery, Flavor, and Wellness. These pillars not only guide our approach to food but also shape how we celebrate diverse culinary practices from around the world. By drawing inspiration from global traditions, we aim to deepen our understanding of food’s power to nourish, heal, and connect. Let’s delve deeper into each of these guiding principles and how they influence our approach to mindful eating.

THE JAPANESE ART OF IKIGAI

In Japan, the concept of ikigai—which translates to "a reason for being" or "purpose in life"—extends to how people view food. For the Japanese, food is not just sustenance; it’s a part of a larger, mindful approach to living. The practice of mindful eating in Japan involves slowing down to savor meals, focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients that nourish both body and mind. Meals are often enjoyed with a deep sense of appreciation and balance, allowing for reflection and gratitude. This approach encourages us to slow down and appreciate each bite, embracing the harmony of taste, texture, and nutritional value. At Laroot, we integrate the essence of ikigai into our philosophy by encouraging our community to find purpose and joy in their meals, savoring the experience rather than rushing through it.

AYURVEDIC MINDFUL EATING

Rooted in ancient Indian philosophy, Ayurveda teaches that food should be tailored to an individual’s unique constitution, known as their dosha (Vata, Pitta, or Kapha), as well as the time of year (seasonality). This holistic approach to food suggests that mindful eating is about paying attention to how different foods affect our energy, mood, and well-being. Ayurvedic mindful eating practices encourage us to eat in a calm, focused environment, paying close attention to our hunger and fullness cues. It also teaches us to savor meals slowly, without distraction, to foster better digestion and deeper satisfaction. A key Ayurvedic principle that resonates with our philosophy is the idea of eating until you are 80% full, a practice inspired by Confucian teachings. This prevents overeating, supports digestion, and helps maintain balance in our physical and emotional health. At Laroot, we promote this mindful approach by encouraging our customers to be more aware of their body’s signals and to eat with intention and purpose.

ITALIAN SLOW FOOD MOVEMENT

The Slow Food movement originated in Italy as a response to the rise of fast food and industrialized agriculture. It emphasizes the importance of slow, conscious eating and the enjoyment of meals made from locally sourced, high-quality ingredients. The movement encourages the preservation of traditional culinary practices and promotes a deep appreciation for food as an expression of cultural heritage. At Laroot, we resonate with this philosophy by prioritizing the use of seasonal, sustainably sourced ingredients in our meals. Our approach encourages people to slow down, savor each bite, and connect with the food they consume, allowing them to enjoy the true flavor and richness of each dish. Just like the Slow Food movement, we celebrate the connection between food, culture, and community.

TCM PRINCIPLES OF EATING

In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), food is viewed as a form of medicine that can either heal or harm, depending on how it is prepared and consumed. TCM emphasizes the importance of balancing yin and yang, hot and cold, and seasonal foods to enhance digestion and overall vitality. According to TCM principles, mindful eating involves eating with intention, choosing foods that align with the season, and eating warm, nourishing meals that support digestive health. At Laroot, we incorporate TCM principles by focusing on meals that balance flavors and ingredients in harmony with the body’s needs, using seasonal and warming foods to promote better digestion, energy, and balance. By adopting this mindful approach, we foster a deeper connection to the nourishing power of food.

INDIAN THALI TRADITION

The thali is a traditional Indian meal served on a large platter, featuring an array of small dishes that vary in flavor, texture, and nutrition. The thali is an ideal example of mindful eating because it encourages portion control and sensory engagement with each dish. The variety of flavors—from spicy to sweet, savory to sour—promotes a rich, balanced eating experience that engages all the senses. The structure of a thali also supports moderation, offering a range of food types in smaller portions to prevent overeating. At Laroot, we embrace this approach by offering meals that balance different nutrients and flavors, allowing for a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience. This helps us foster mindful, intentional eating habits that promote both enjoyment and health.

ETHIOPIAN EATING WITH INJERA

In Ethiopia, the traditional way of eating involves the use of injera, a large, sourdough flatbread, as the base for communal meals. Injera is used to scoop up stews, salads, and other dishes, and the meal is often shared among family and friends. This communal style of eating promotes connection, mindfulness, and gratitude as people eat together, focusing on the experience rather than just the food itself. At Laroot, we celebrate the spirit of communal eating and connection, encouraging people to savor their meals together and engage in a mindful, shared experience. Whether dining with loved ones or alone, the act of eating with intention and appreciation strengthens our relationship to food and fosters a sense of community and belonging.

MEDITERRANEAN GRAZING

In Mediterranean cultures, meals are often served as a collection of small dishes known as "mezze" or "antipasti." These dishes are meant to be shared and enjoyed slowly, promoting grazing throughout the meal. This style of eating encourages conversation, mindful savoring of food, and a relaxed, social approach to mealtime. The Mediterranean diet is celebrated for its focus on fresh, seasonal produce, whole grains, legumes, and healthy fats. At Laroot, we embrace the Mediterranean philosophy by offering a range of small, flavorful dishes that encourage people to enjoy a variety of tastes and textures. This approach not only promotes mindfulness but also helps people connect more deeply with the food they eat, enhancing their overall eating experience.

MINDFUL EATING AS A SHARED JOURNEY

Mindful eating is about more than just food; it’s about cultivating a deeper connection to our bodies, the earth, and the people we share meals with. By drawing on the wisdom of diverse culinary traditions, from Japanese ikigai to Ethiopian communal meals, we at Laroot encourage a more intentional approach to dining. Our three pillars of Discovery, Flavor, and Wellness are inspired by the global richness of mindful eating practices, and we invite our community to explore, savor, and enjoy food in a way that nourishes both the body and the soul. Together, let’s embark on this journey of mindful eating, discovering the joy and wellness that come from every nourishing bite.