I’ve come to understand that the body is a living miracle, a perfectly designed gift made for me and by me. Its intricate ways of communicating are nothing short of extraordinary, yet for most of my life, I ignored them. This began to change when I stopped drinking coffee, cut down on sugar, and started to eat what my body signaled it wanted. Slowly, I noticed incredible changes: the way my hands looked, the clarity in my skin, and the energy I woke up with each morning.
There was one day at work that stands out vividly. I was entangled in a problem, mentally fixated, trying to solve it with sheer willpower. Out of nowhere, nausea hit me like a wave. I realized this was my body speaking to me, saying, Enough. The moment I decided to step back and stop forcing myself, the nausea disappeared as suddenly as it came. It became clear—my body is an ally, guiding me with subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals. The challenge lies in translating them and trusting them enough to make aligned decisions.
A Market Full of Abundance and Joy
Today, I went to the market with an empty fridge and an open heart. Even before arriving, the excitement bubbled up as I thought about the fresh ingredients I’d find. The market is a special place for me—it’s alive with authenticity and connection. I’ve built relationships with the vendors over time, and every visit feels like a reunion.
The vegetable stand was my first stop, where I was greeted by radiant colors and robust flavors. The bell peppers were plump, the cauliflower was rich, and the oranges seemed to smile at me. The sunlight stored in those oranges felt like a gift during these rainy January days. I filled my bag with fruits and vegetables, feeling a wave of joy as I paid, realizing how much abundance I could bring home for so little.
Then there was the fish stand. I couldn’t help but marvel at the salmon lying on ice, its flesh glistening with freshness. Something deep within me—my cells, perhaps—jumped with excitement as I picked out a quarter of that beautiful salmon. It wasn’t just food; it was a connection to life itself.
A year ago, my market trips would have included a stop for coffee and cake, but not anymore. I’ve stopped drinking coffee—it no longer serves my body. Instead, I’ve embraced teas in a variety of flavors and treat myself to fresh dates, nuts, and chocolate. These simple, natural foods now bring me the same joy I once sought in sugar-filled snacks.
This shift has rippled into my home life as well. I’ve swapped out cookies for fresh fruit, baked goods made with love, and nutrient-dense snacks like nuts and seeds. My children are adapting beautifully to these changes, finding joy in the new treats we prepare together. It’s not just about food; it’s about nurturing a connection between body, mind, and Essence
As I reflect on today’s market visit, I see how much more it represents than just gathering food. It’s a celebration of life, of the connection between myself, my body, and the world around me. When I choose fresh, vibrant ingredients, my body responds with joy and gratitude. It’s a reminder that everything we consume—whether it’s food, thoughts, or experiences—shapes who we are.
I used to think my body controlled me, that it decided when I was sick, tired, or full of energy. But I’ve come to realize the opposite is true—my body is completely dependent on me. The navigator. It responds to my choices, my thoughts, and the way I treat it. When my thoughts were harsh and dark, my body hardened, not to protect me from the world as I once thought, but to shield itself from how I was treating it.
Now, I see my body for what it truly is: a magnificent, patient vessel. It reflects every decision I make, adapting and responding with incredible resilience. The moment I started to treat it with care—letting go of coffee, reducing sugar, listening to its signals—it rewarded me in ways I never imagined. My energy shifted, my appearance softened, and I began to feel a deep sense of vitality and alignment.
The market, with its abundance and authenticity, mirrors this journey perfectly: a place where simple things bring profound joy, where connection is the currency, and where the body’s wisdom is celebrated in every bite. It reminds me that every choice I make, no matter how small, is an act of love—for myself, for my body, and for the life I’m creating.
Here’s to the joy of creating,
Anke Joanne
