Berry Cream Cheese Scones in the Autumn

The Mindful Kitchen by Heidi Barr

Autumn in Minnesota is defined by leaves turning burnt umber and ruby, picking the last of the garden crops before the first hard freeze, and spending weekends preserving whatever vegetables and fruits have decided to declare themselves abundant. And it’s a time, perhaps, of invitation: To start to shift into a slower gear and remember that all of this abundance of harvest time is meant to be savored.

Mindfully sourcing, preparing, and enjoying that which nourishes the body can be one of life’s greatest joys, as well as one of the simple acts that helps a human being thrive in this modern world. Wellness means more than just eating enough vegetables and working out a certain number of times per week. True well-being is underlaid by presence—that is to say, how we show up to our days and what provides a foundation for the choices we make. For some, wellness means eating broccoli and getting to know the stairmaster. For others it means walking outside regularly and ditching the extra he…