kitchen fundamentals
In every kitchen, there are fundamentals to its smooth running. Every chef has their favourites and that’s what makes every kitchen special in its own, unique way. These elements reflect what food & being™ is all about and the values it embodies. Each one has been hand-picked to create an experience that meets you where you are and creates a safe space for you to feel at home in.
authenticity
For me, authenticity is about showing up wholly, as we are, ready to embrace the full journey. It’s about expressing how we feel, creating the space to feel it all and then choosing to move forward in a way that truly resonates with us. food & being™ is authentically me, so when I say that when we work together you get me and nothing but the real me, I mean it. Likewise, for our work to be meaningful, lasting and worthy for you, I’d love you to come into our kitchen being just you. You are welcome just as you are right now (not tomorrow or next year). This space is open, accepting and ready for you. You are enough. Step in as your true, authentic self.
community
Cultivating a sense of community is an essential part of the human experience. It helps us feel a sense of belonging. Growing up on a small island meant that community played a very important role in my life. Our neighbours were always there for us when we needed, and so were we for them. Creating a community of people who share a love for food and who honour their being is fundamental to the purpose of food & being™. Beyond this, I aim to be of service to the community I’m part of. Whether it’s through collaborating with not-for-profit organisations, social businesses or offering a number of sponsored sessions to individuals who are still working toward financial independence, food & being™ remains a heart-led brand with a social conscience and a promise to keep doing more and keep doing better.
connection
Exploring connections through sensory experiences allows us to immerse ourselves fully in the moment and see things from new perspectives. Connections are an integral part of our existence. The most powerful ones happen when we feel seen, heard and valued (to paraphrase Brené Brown). This is not only valid when we connect with others, it’s also true when we connect with ourselves. Through a variety of opportunities, food & being™ exists to enable deep connection. It’s about creating a space for you to really listen to yourself, not only through thoughts and words, but also through all your other senses of taste, smell, touch, hearing and vision. Together we will explore who you really want to be, at your own pace and in a creative setting that enables growth and joy, at the same time.
nourishment
Food is such an integral part of our understanding of what nourishment is. A good plate of food can make us feel ready to take over the world, just as our favourite dish cooked by someone for us has the ability to make us feel loved, cared for and appreciated (and let’s not mention the absence of a meal… the word ‘hangry’ comes to mind). Feeling nourished, however, goes beyond the physical aspect. A nourished mind and a nourished soul are just as important to help us thrive. Within the food & being™ kitchen, we will provide nourishment to all three. My approach ensures that you leave our kitchen with food for thought, and food for your tastebuds too. In the words of the great Julia Child: “Bon Apétit!”, all round.
resourcefulness
We are all resourceful beings - every kitchen tool that might come in useful, is already right there within us. This is something I truly believe about every single one of us. Sometimes we just find ourselves in a messy kitchen. Other times our thoughts and feelings look more like a plate of spaghetti rather than beautifully laid-out éclairs and all we need is some assistance in making sense of it all and re-organising it. That’s exactly what will be doing together. Whether it’s sharpening the blunt knife, or bringing in a newer version of that trusty whisk, we work together to create your own personalised utensils pot that has all your go-to tools, right there and ready for use.
self-discovery
Like the artichoke, self-discovery involves peeling back layers, often gently and playfully, to get to the heart of who we are. It's a brave journey that allows us to gain the beautiful awareness we require to make a different choice and evolve in alignment with our true selves. We are worthy of exploring every aspect of our being, embracing our uniqueness fully, whilst reconnecting with what inspires us to rise. In this process, we are encouraged to recognise our capability to be a work in progress, evolving and refining ourselves with each layer we uncover, and a work of art, both at the same time.