January is the time of new beginnings and change. Status quo just doesn't cut it for this season. Not all changes are radical. Some of the most lasting ones are impreceptibly small.

This year one of my goals is to learn something new. So I signed up for a mindfulness training course. The class includes learning mindfulness meditation practices along with how to live more mindfully.

One of the first homework assignments was to eat a mindful meal. Instead of doing my normal chewing and swallowing while being interrupted by internal and external distractions, I was encouraged to focus on my meal, one moment at a time. I centered my attention on the textures, scents, tastes, sights, sound of my food. I noticed that I ate breakfast more slowly and enjoyed my eating experience more intensely.

Did my mind wander? It did. But staying true to the mindful practice, in a non-judgemental way, I gently focused back on being purposely present with my meal.

Where will your focus lead you this year?