This week M+K sits across the table with Kelly Smith, Founder of Yoga For You, and host of the iTunes chart-topping podcast, Mindful in Minutes. She talks with us about mindful eating, the routines that keep her grounded and the power of meditation.
1. My cooking inspiration…
Although I don’t have a particular inspiration, I have always tried to be an intuitive eater. I don’t subscribe to any particular meal plan or diet but instead, try to connect with my body and give it what it’s craving so I can feel my best. For me, that means sometimes I’m making a smoothie bowl, and other days I am ordering a pizza. I try to be adventurous in my food, but I end up making a lot of quick and simple meals when I am at home because of my hectic schedule. One person that I have always enjoyed following and using for inspiration is the Minimalist Baker. Her ability to create food that is nutritious, yummy, and beautiful amazes me. Although I am not plant-based I love her recipes to incorporate more veg into my life.
2. A meal that reminds me of home…
Ravioli! It is something that I used to get so excited about when we had it for dinner as a kid and it’s something that my husband and I still like to eat when we need a fun, quick dinner. There is something about ravioli that I always love as a special treat. Also, a bonus if you have some sourdough or french bread on the side. It was my absolute favourite childhood meal, and I still love it.
3. A life lesson cooking has taught me…
It’s ok to try new things- just because a recipe says that it should be done a certain way, doesn’t mean you always have to do it that way. I love to mix it up in the kitchen and try different flavours and variations on meals. The same applies to life as well, try new things, don’t be afraid to mix it up, and just because something has always been done one way doesn’t mean that it won’t be better by going rogue and adding your flare to it.
4. When I want to be creative I…
Turn on some of my favourite instrumental music, meditate for a few minutes to clear my mind and then ask the universe for guidance. I make sure all devices are turned off and I just create. I do my best to just let it flow and not analyse while I create, just let it happen.
5. The most transformational book I’ve read is…
The Yamas and Niyamas by Deborah Adele. This book is such a quick but transformative read, and it made me question a lot of my beliefs and begin to explore yoga beyond the physical practice and poses. This is not only one of my favourite books, but also the one I am most likely to give as a gift.
6. The routines that keep me grounded are…
A daily gratitude and quiet contemplation practice, and time with my dog each day. There is something about slowing down and spending a little bit of time each day thinking about what you are grateful for, checking in and reflecting on how you’re doing and connecting with Mila’s sweet soul that helps to keep me grounded and joyful.
7. I recently learnt…
That you should always open your potato chips from the bottom of the bag to evenly distribute the seasoning. Maybe I’m the last person to learn this but my mind was absolutely blown. On a more serious note, I have also recently learned that it’s ok to slow down and take time to turn inward and focus on yourself. I am currently pregnant with my first child, and a rough first few months of pregnancy that left me nearly unable to function. I began to shift my view on what productive really means, and sometimes you need to slow down or stop altogether to focus on your personal wellbeing.
8. Favourite random act of kindness…
Sending someone a text that I haven’t talked to in a while just to let them know how wonderful I think they are and what a special person they are to me.
9. To make a difference in my community I…
Offer weekly free meditations on my podcast. My hope is that people can use this resource as a way to build a meditation practice and be able to find some peace of mind and moments of stillness in their day- for free.
10. Right now, I’m grateful for…
The health and happiness of the baby boy that I am currently growing inside of me. I have a new appreciation for my body, and also the support system around me as I navigate this life change.
Kelly Smith is an internationally celebrated yoga and meditation teacher, founder of Yoga For You, and host of the iTunes chart-topping podcast, Mindful in Minutes. Kelly believes that there is not a one-size-fits-all approach to yoga and meditation and cultivates an environment that empowers her students to listen to their bodies, explore their personal practice through more than just yoga poses, and to find joy and gratitude for the life they have. Kelly specialises in leading meditations, unique training in meditation, restorative yoga, and yoga nidra and global yoga and meditation retreats. Kelly has been practising yoga and meditation for 15 years and enjoys spending time travelling, writing guided meditations and hanging out with her dog Mila.
To connect visit:
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yogaforyouonline/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yogaforyouonline/
Website: www.yogaforyouonline.com
Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/mindful-in-minutes/id1295718287
