Mind and Body

on January 14, 2011
in All Posts

I think I’m becoming more urbanized because I’ve been eating so many meals out lately.  I feel like a New Yorker.  :)  This is certainly not budget-friendly, but I have to admit that it’s really working out for my super busy lifestyle recently.

 

And hey, this awesome salad was only $6 from the local deli.  Considering some of the pricey ingredients, it’s not a bad deal.

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Spinach, goat cheese, onions, carrots, sunflower seeds, golden raisins, and lots and lots of honey mustard.  Although this salad looks small, it’s really filling because it’s so energy-dense with the cheese, fruit, and nuts.

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And yes, now I’m at the clinic!  My drive from Tennessee to Charlotte was fast and painless.

 

Hey – it’s Maggie Valley!

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Ate an apple along the way (anyone else steal food out of their parents’ fridge upon departure?):

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I was listening to the radio on the drive, and in an interview with Ryan Seacrest, Vince Vaughn remarked (paraphrasing, obviously):

 

Keep your mind where your body is.  Your mind and body should be equally present.  If you’re at work, concentrate on being at work; if you’re at home with your family, don’t think about work.  

 

(However, taking breaks from your job to read this blog is perfectly acceptable.  Heh.)

 

Isn’t that a lovely thought?  Since I seem to be juggling so many balls in the air, it’s easy for me to “get ahead of myself” and think about other stuff when I should just focus on being present.  Not only would I get more stuff done, I’d probably enjoy life a little more, too.  🙂

{ 70 comments }

 

  • Beth @ Beth's Journey to Thin January 14, 2011, 2:48 pm

    I always take drinks and fruit and granola bars when I leave my parents house for a trip. They are my parents, after all! 🙂

  • Susan January 14, 2011, 2:48 pm

    I’ve heard that advice before and I think it’s really great advice. I think you end up being a better worker, wife, mother, person when you live that way. Of course, it’s super hard to not let your mind get crowded and I need to constantly be reminded to live that way, but I love it. And love that Vince Vaughn said that too! Becoming a dad seems to agree with him, ha ha!

  • Susan January 14, 2011, 2:49 pm

    oh and of course i’m writing this while at work so clearly am not following the advice!

  • Marie-JourneytoBodyZen January 14, 2011, 2:49 pm

    I jump ahead of myself a lot too! It’s way to easy to do when you have a busy lifestyle. I can honestly say though that when I am at home (for the most part) I let it all go. It’s taken me a while to be able to do this, but it is great and makes me a more likeable person to my hubby!

  • Annette January 14, 2011, 2:52 pm

    I totally agree with this statement! I try to do this daily- and it helps keep me sane and healthy 🙂

  • Stacy @ Every Little Thing January 14, 2011, 2:52 pm

    I definitely have my mind everywhere all at once! An interesting thought about streamlining our thoughts and lifestyle.

  • Ameena January 14, 2011, 2:56 pm

    I have trouble keeping my mind on anything but that’s because I am juggling 100 things at once. Vince Vaughn makes a good point but he probably has an assistant or two to help him with his life!

    I steal food from my parents fridge and in-laws fridge regularly. I am shameless.

  • Caitlyn (A Spoonful of Life) January 14, 2011, 2:56 pm

    For a minute there I was feeling guilty for reading your blog during work. But that was short lived!

  • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday January 14, 2011, 2:57 pm

    Keeping my mind present is definitely something that I’m aware of when I practice yoga. It’s a great exercise because most of the time my mind is all over the place!

    As for urban=eating out, I beg to differ. I cooked at my apartment just as often when I lived in the big city.

  • Michele @ Healthy Cultivations January 14, 2011, 2:58 pm

    This is good advice today. Being present is something I think most of us struggle with… some more than others. The Internet tends to make things worse. It’s so easy to flip to this or that… presence is my goal.

  • Leanne (For Health's Sake) January 14, 2011, 2:59 pm

    Being in the moment (or present) can be tough when you have so much going on but regardless, it’s important!

    Plus, concentrating on one thing at a time = being more productive!

    ps. thanks for giving me the green light to read your blog at work 😉

  • Courtney (Pancakes & Postcards) January 14, 2011, 2:59 pm

    That’s a great quote (or paraphrase, as it were!) 🙂 I am so horrible at being present where I’m at in the moment. It’s something I’ve always struggled with h be and really need to work on–I do yoga, but tend to be thinking about everything BUT yoga when I’m there! It’s a process…

  • Kelly January 14, 2011, 3:04 pm

    I’ve actually been thinking about the concept of “being present” for the last couple of weeks. Mostly in relation to those around me, but also knowing that I, myself, could use a healthy does of it, too. It’s definitely a struggle when so many things are going on, but just being able to focus on one thing at a time frees up so much of your day. It’s amazing how much “extra” time you gain by being presently active throughout the day.

  • Meghan@travelwinedine January 14, 2011, 3:06 pm

    It’s great advice that I have a very hard time taking as a worrywart and planner. The Power of Now is a really great book to consider for this concept.

  • Amanda January 14, 2011, 3:14 pm

    I know you posted the picture of Maggie Valley for your dog, but that is one of my favorite places in the world!

  • Amanda @ JustAmandaJ January 14, 2011, 3:15 pm

    I love visiting my parents, my Nanny always cooks anything I’ve been missing and sends us off with goodies 🙂 Win win I think!

  • Lindsay M January 14, 2011, 3:19 pm

    Isn’t Seacrest? Anyhow…..I steal..ahem..BORROW food, toilet paper, paper towels, dish det., just enough to get me by for a couple days and ONLY when I can’t or do not want to get out with my kids at the store at that time. That’s okay..right?! I am going to pretend it is. 🙂

  • Kimberly @ Healthy Strides January 14, 2011, 3:21 pm

    “Anyone else steal food out of their parents’ fridge upon departure?” – LOVE THIS! I practically grocery shop at my grandma’s when I visit home.

  • Lauren January 14, 2011, 3:25 pm

    I’m reading a book right now that focuses a lot on being present – “Radical Acceptance” by Tara Brach. I’ve been an avid reader of your blog for the last few months and I think you’d like the book!
    Anyway just saying hello and introducing myself, I’m usually not much of a commenter! 🙂

    • Emilie January 15, 2011, 5:11 pm

      That’s a great book! I read it almost a year ago and really enjoyed it. Tara Brach advocates a very wise and loving approach to life.

  • Samantha @ Health, Happiness & Skinny Jeans January 14, 2011, 3:27 pm

    I definitely need to spend more time “present”. I think a lot about the future and that leads to worry and prevents me from enjoying the now.

  • Allison @ Happy Tales January 14, 2011, 3:32 pm

    Wow, that’s a truly powerful quote. Really makes me stop and think! And that’s actually something I’m working on this year — to be more “present”

  • Lili January 14, 2011, 3:36 pm

    HA! I am reading your blog at work and then I see: ” If you’re at work, concentrate on being at work” – I get an instant guilt! haha but thanks for the: “(However, taking breaks from your job to read this blog is perfectly acceptable. Heh.)” UFFFF!!!

    $6 for that huge salad is def not bad at all. If we go to the store and buy all the ingredients, its not cheap either! And love this pic of Maggie Valley – this mountain w/ snow is SO pretty!
    Im off to the snow (Lake Tahoe – Nevada/Cali) in a little bit for some skiing tomorrow ~ we don’t really get snow in Cali so its exciting to go TO THE snow 😀

    Have a grt weekend Cailtin!

    • Caitlin January 15, 2011, 6:27 pm

      Have a great weekend in Lake Tahoe!

  • Ella January 14, 2011, 3:38 pm

    Thats something I really need to work on – my brain is always firing 100x a minute.

  • Stacey - The Habit of Healthy January 14, 2011, 3:39 pm

    My guilty pleasure is taking whole fruit from buffets! They always have loads and I’ve paid my money, so I figure why not?! It comes in handy as a great snack later in the day. 🙂

  • Anna January 14, 2011, 3:40 pm

    I have learned that when you are focused on what you are doing and not thinking about what you need to do next, you do at better job at what you are actually doing! If you are always thinking about the next thing you will never give 100% at the task at hand. Just my opinion!!
    And yes! I always “steal” food from the parent’s fridge if I am heading out and know I will be snacky 🙂

  • Baking 'n' Books January 14, 2011, 3:44 pm

    I can’t believe that Vince Vaughn said that!

    Meanwhile I watched “Four Christmases” the other night – and yes, I know it’s not a ‘good’ movie…but that scene with Vaughn in the Shepherd’s play and his ‘signature’ rambling/improv type acting is priceless! Made me laugh and I needed it!

  • Natalia - a side of simple January 14, 2011, 3:46 pm

    Whenever I’m home from college I always stock up from the pantry and fridge. Thankfully my mom is more than willing to help out. She loves cooking so she can’t give me ENOUGH! Plus, with my two brothers at the ripe “eat everything and anything” ages of 16 and 20, she loves to give a girl a little extra food 🙂

  • Emily January 14, 2011, 3:46 pm

    You’re salad looks awesome…that’s my kind of fast food!

    I think it’s really hard for me to focus on the present sometimes…I’m constantly thinking ahead!

  • Tonyne @ Unlikely Success Story January 14, 2011, 3:49 pm

    Being present is one of my biggest life goals. I love the caveat you added about being at work and reading your blog is ok. haha 🙂

    Totally raid my Mom’s fridge when I leave. I usually grab fruit, candy and water. 🙂

  • mindy @ just a one girl revolution. January 14, 2011, 3:49 pm

    At hot yoga last night, my teacher said something along the lines of “breathe for the moment” which aligns well with Vince’s statement. It can be easier said than done though.

  • Amanda January 14, 2011, 3:52 pm

    It’s considered grocery shopping at your parents’ house. 😉 VV’s words of wisdom are inspiring. It’s always a challenge at yoga to focus on yoga-present and not todo list for later.

  • Kate (What Kate is Cooking) January 14, 2011, 3:53 pm

    Great quote! I feel like I never live in the present. I am ALWAYS thinking and worrying about the future. Thanks for the reminder!

  • jen @ taste life January 14, 2011, 3:54 pm

    Oh my gosh, that’s the exit for my neck of the woods! I live right next to Maggie Valley 🙂

    Yes, I always steal food from my parent’s fridge!

  • foodandfarm January 14, 2011, 3:55 pm

    So many americans are like this… just like she said in eat, pray, love….enjoy the sweetness of doing nothing.

  • Camille January 14, 2011, 4:01 pm

    I really like that quote! Who would have thought that Vince Vaughn was such an insightful guy? 🙂

  • Krista @ Journey to a Healthy Berg January 14, 2011, 4:04 pm

    That’s great advice. I need to try to remember that more often!

  • Erin @ The Grass Skirt January 14, 2011, 4:06 pm

    It is a VERY lovely thought, and I like it even more since it came from my hunky Vince. 😉

  • Kristinefitness January 14, 2011, 4:14 pm

    Thanks for the reminder to stay present, my mind ALWAYS tries to run away into the future, UGH!

    Oh and that salad… so so so yummy looking!

  • Marge January 14, 2011, 4:16 pm

    Caitlin–I think you do an awesome job with getting take-out that is a good value and healthful/nutritious. I would not worry too much about your outside purchases. Actually, it would be interesting for you to do a post cross comparing say a Thai takeout meal or a wrap (or whatever you buy) and then see what the cost difference and other differences are when you make it at home. I am a Manhattanite, these questions come up quite a bit!

    • Caitlin January 15, 2011, 6:26 pm

      That is a really interesting blog idea… Maybe I will do a comparison soon!

  • Errign January 14, 2011, 4:17 pm

    We talked about this in yoga the other night. The instructor said something like “the past is gone by and the future isn’t here yet, so the present is what you have”. I loved it.

  • Clare January 14, 2011, 4:28 pm

    Caitlin, the other day you did a post that featured a book you were reading about time management for women, or working moms more specifically (please forgive me if I’ve got the wrong blog!). I can’t for the life of me remember the name of it and I’ve looked through most of your recent posts. I think it had a clock on the front cover? I would be super grateful if you or any of your readers could refresh my memory on this. Thanks!

    • brianna January 14, 2011, 10:44 pm

      168 Hours

      • Caitlin January 15, 2011, 8:42 am

        Thanks Brianna! I haven’t had a chance to read comments on the last few posts yet.

        🙂 Yes, its 168 hours!

  • aubrey @ italktofood January 14, 2011, 4:33 pm

    i take food all the time! Especially bulk nuts. I happened to just fill a huge bag of walnuts and an un-opened jar of peanut butter. That’s what parent’s are for right?

  • Kiran January 14, 2011, 4:35 pm

    Due to personal reasons, 2010 came and went in a blink of an eye for me. For 2011, my resolution is to live life EVERYDAY, at the moment 🙂

  • Kristen @ That Hoosier Girl January 14, 2011, 4:37 pm

    I’ve gotten so bad about taking food as I leave my parents’ house that my mom starts packing me a “to-go” bag. Not like a measly plastic bag…a heavy-duty paper one 🙂 I may be 28, but I have a feeling some things will never change…and I’m okay with that!

  • chelsey @ clean eating chelsey January 14, 2011, 4:40 pm

    I alwaaaays steal food from my parents’ house. No shame!

  • Amanda (Eating Up) January 14, 2011, 4:47 pm

    Who knew Vince Vaughn was so insightful?

  • Theodora January 14, 2011, 4:56 pm

    As a New Yorker who definitely does grab (healthy) takeout pretty often, I’ve loved your takeout posts lately! 🙂

  • Nicole @ Geek Turned Athlete January 14, 2011, 4:56 pm

    I’m always thinking about what is going to happen next, what I can get done the next day, etc. I have been trying to work on that lately. When I’m with the puppy and the husband, I try to be present. It is so hard sometimes, but I feel like I’m actually spending quality time on things now.

  • D January 14, 2011, 5:20 pm

    girl, stick to your budget!! i know its tempting but when you make a financial commitment, the most important time to stick to it is when you’re busy, stressed, etc. or it becomes too easy to drop it all together. it’s easy to make your own meals and pack lunches when you have a lot of time, but it’s about going the extra step when you really don’t want to. believe me, i get it – i’m in graduate school, working as a TA, and soon to start a second part time job. i have hardly any kitchen supplies (i cooked a veggie burger in a wok yesterday because i dont have a skillet or microwave yet), i have barely any time to sit down, and i’m on a tight budget. but you gotta do it!

    • Caitlin January 15, 2011, 6:25 pm

      You’re so right, D!!!! Gotta keep my eyes on the budget prize.

  • Jen January 14, 2011, 5:29 pm

    Haha my parents sent me off with a box-load of food after my visit over my semester break. I still have cereal, hummus, and crackers from the take-away care package 🙂

  • Sarah @ The Strength of Faith January 14, 2011, 5:46 pm

    I don’t call it stealing, I call it economical grocery shopping. 🙂

  • Amber K January 14, 2011, 6:16 pm

    I used to, but definitely don’t take food from my parents now. Now, I actually want to eat HEALTHY 🙂

  • Lacey @ Lake Life January 14, 2011, 6:35 pm

    I steal food from my parents house all the time. Ok, I guess it’s not technically stealing since my mom adds the stuff to my bags 🙂

  • Hillary January 14, 2011, 6:43 pm

    I heard the same interview on the radio today and totally agree!

    I really am going to try to take that sentiment to heart. I am a teacher and find myself overwhelemed at work and do personal things to avoid work.I also tend bring my stress home and it makes me miserable to be around at times. It also makes me unhappy. I really want to work on keeping the parts of my life seperate – maybe that is how I can keep balance.

    Who knew Vince Vaughn could offer such clarity??? 🙂

    • Caitlin January 15, 2011, 6:24 pm

      Good luck with teaching 🙂 I’m sure you are doing a wonderful job!

  • Jennifer (Happiness Here) January 14, 2011, 6:46 pm

    We’ve been eating out way too often, too. At the end of a long day, I do NOT want to cook. So much easier to grab something, and it feels like a “treat.” We’re gonna have to stop, though, because it is waaay too expensive.

  • Kara January 14, 2011, 7:43 pm

    I would never think that Vince Vaughn would be a source of such yogic advice 🙂

  • Christina January 14, 2011, 7:43 pm

    Totally with you on the salad- making fancy stuff can easily cost you more to buy the ingredients. Totally with you on stealing food from the parents’ fridge, too! 🙂

  • Becca@ Start Over From Scratch January 14, 2011, 7:52 pm

    We have two cabins in Maggie Valley! Its really beautiful! You should stop sometime in between your trip! Waynesville, its next door neighbor has a really cute downtown and an original general store thats really fun!

  • Danielle January 14, 2011, 9:19 pm

    He is awesome! Love the “brush with fame” that you both had 🙂

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin January 15, 2011, 8:39 am

    I feel like I’ve been eating out a lot too and it has not been easy on my wallet! 😛 I want to start making things like soups and casseroles on the weekends so I can have leftovers throughout the week.

  • Sarah January 15, 2011, 9:16 am

    mmm that salad does look delicious! I wish i had somewhere around me that sold something like this 😀

    I always steal food from my parents house when i leave!

  • Julia @ Brides Up North January 18, 2011, 8:33 am

    LOVE Vince Vaughan’s thought.

  • Dee January 19, 2011, 2:31 pm

    I’m taking a break from the job right now! 😉

    I am totally down with living in the present. Love the quote!

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