How to Be Mindful While Making Coffee

I've long believed the process of brewing coffee each morning had meditative qualities because of the ritual and the sensory experience. However, I couldn't have articulated nearly as clearly as this article in the New York Times.

“Approach making your coffee the same way you approach meditating. Be completely here and now in the present moment, centering your attention exclusively on what you are doing and feeling. Being mindful of how you make your coffee shows you how to be mindful in every part of your life.” — Gloria Chadwick, the author of “Zen Coffee: A Guide to Mindful Meditation.”

Smell the aroma from the coffee grounds as you put them into the coffee filter. Breathe in their deep, rich, intense fragrance.

As you pour the water into your coffee maker, notice the clearness of the water, hear the gurgling sound. Listen to the first drops of water as they sizzle into the carafe; notice the color of the coffee.

Watch the steam that rises, swirling in the carafe; be mindful of the ethereal nature of your inner self.

Smell the first delicious whiff of your coffee as it begins to brew.

Listen to the sounds the coffee maker makes as it brews your coffee.

When the coffee is done brewing, let it sit for a moment or two to attain its full flavor.

Let yourself sit for a moment or two, to obtain the full flavor of meditating.