I find that one of the many wonders of food is that it brings people together. It sparks communication. It nourishes our bodies. It brings us pleasure. It is something we cannot live without.

Healthy food should be affordable, sustainably grown and thoroughly enjoyed. I may be a dietitian, but I enjoy those “sinful pleasures” too…

Nutella. A hearty glass of good red wine. Doughnuts. Dark chocolate. A good, razor cold beer. Butter. Bacon. Ice cream. Cheese. Cheesecake. A perfectly cooked pork tenderloin or fillet of beef.

Eating healthy is about balance and acceptance, not rigidity and restriction. It is also understanding where food comes from, and the work it takes to produce it. It is adopting the mentality that food is meant to nourish, and not just simply feed.

In my world, cooking is a form of meditation. It allows me to clear my mind and focus only on cooking, ridding my busy brain of all other thoughts. It is one of the few moments in my day where I am truly present.

Being in the kitchen is one of the most comforting places for me. I can make as much of a mess as I want, and it’s okay; I just wish I had someone to clean it up.