Food does much more than simply entertain our taste buds or comfort us when we are feeling down. Because we take in both the energy and the physical matter of the food we consume, it can nourish us on many levels. Not only are we receiving the energy of the plant or animal matter that we ingest, we are also receiving energetic traces of those people who have handled this food.

Through preparing foods and drinks in a sacred manner, we invest in them with beneficial energies that truly nurture the body and spirit. As "Kitchen Witches," we clear our personal energy of the tensions and worries of the day just as we would for any ritual. We bring our magical selves to the preparation of food and drink, charging our cooking or preparation utensils with blessings and beneficial energies.

As followers of earth-based religions, Pagans often develop a deep respect and gratitude for the blessings of Mother Earth and her children. While we understand that all species play a role in the food web of this planet, we also see the manifestation if spirit in the plants and animals we eat. Through the use of meal blessings, we honor their sacrifice and release any personal or unwanted energies before we begin our meals.

Keep this in mind when you come to your kitchen. Make every effort not to bring potentially harmful emotions to the preparation of food or drink. Begin by purifying yourself and your working area through the use of smudge, incense, or meditation. Count yourself down from ten to one or simply take a few deep breaths to center your energy.

Once your energy is clear, consciously direct blessings into the pots, utensils, and ingredients that go into your meal. Hold your hands out with the palms open to these objects, take a deep breath, and visualize your love and prayers flowing hands into the food and drink. You may want to charge these itmes with specific prayers or simply send white light to your loved ones.

You may also want to direct a special mealtime prayer to the food and drink. The following prayer may be used in this way. It is a wonderful blessing for the whole family, bringing a sense of gratitude and honor to each meal.

Great Spirit, We thank you for the gift of this food. We send blessings of peace, love, and release to all whose bodies energies brought us this nourishment. We honor you in our enjoyment and utilization of this meal. May it bring us health and joy, reminding us of our interconnections with all that is. As we receive, so do we give thanks for this gift.

With young children, it is best to keep prayers short, simple, and to the point as below.

Thank you, Great Spirit. Thank you, chicken and peas and milk (or other food items).Thank you, Mother Earth. We love this food.