Remember when you were a child, and you got so wrapped up in playing, imagining or creating that you didn't want to stop when it was time to eat? Do you remember leaving your meal half-finished to run off and continue playing? Children innately understand that food is secondary to what is most nutritious and primary in life: fun and play.

As adults we seem to have lost our instinct to prioritize play. In our busy world, with its emphasis on work and responsibility, to be healthy and balanced we must work on more than just our bodies; we must feed our hearts, minds and spirits.

Have you noticed that when your body, mind and spirit are engaged in a creative project or happy relationship, your reliance on food seems to decrease? Likewise, when you are unsatisfied with your relationships, your job or other areas of your life, you may depend on food to cheer, soothe or numb you. When your life is out of balance, no amount of food can feed you where you truly need nourishment. The food that we eat is very important for health and balance, but what really feeds us-a full and fulfilling life-doesn't come on a plate.

What is fun for you? What makes you light up? What excites you? Make time for it this week. Even if you don't have much time for fun, try approaching a "serious" activity with an attitude of play. This can greatly reduce stress and anxiety and bring more pleasure to your day. Take your focus off food, try adding more fun into your life and watch the magic unfold.

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes

Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes

Yield: 4-5 servings

Ingredients:

4-5 cups spring water

1-2 inch strip of wakame, rinsed and soaked 5 minutes

      in 1 cup of water, until softened

1-2 cups thinly sliced vegetables of your choice (see notes)

2-3 teaspoons barley miso

2 scallions, finely chopped

Directions:

1.    Chop soaked wakame.

2.    Discard soaking water or use on houseplants for a boost of minerals.

3.    Place water and wakame in a soup pot and bring to a boil.

4.    Add root and ground vegetables first and simmer gently for 5 minutes or until tender.

5.    Add leafy vegetables and simmer for 2-3 minutes.

6.    Remove about 1/2 cup of liquid from pot and dissolve miso into it. Return it to the pot.