In this episode of Mindfulness in the Middle, I explore how mindfulness reshaped my relationship with desire—food, comfort, beauty, longing, pleasure, and the parts of wanting that were once considered off-limits. Growing up, desire wasn’t named; it was managed, judged, or tucked into silence. But noticing desire through a mindful lens changed everything.

This week’s reflection looks at why the things we’re told not to want become more magnetic, how the science of anticipation shapes our cravings, and how desire can be a guide toward nourishment—or a warning toward depletion. I talk about the difference between chasing sparks and listening for alignment, and how pausing to ask “Will this feed me or empty me?” has become part of my inner compass.

This episode invites you to consider your own relationship with wanting:

Which desires have you honored without apology?

And which ones are still waiting for your attention?

Next week’s card is Say Yes—an exploration of what we agree to, why, and whether our yeses are truly aligned.

A written companion to this episode is available on Substack.