Small Changes, Big Impact: How Blackberries Brought Transformation to One Clinent

Musings From Jordan D.

“Embarking upon the path to wellness, the small, sustainable changes are the most likely to stick.”

I have recently made a small change in my diet, to incorporate fresh blackberries daily. I already have an abundance of blackberry plants on my property, so it was easy to make it a habit to pick them fresh every morning. I started to pick a little more than I need every day so I could squirrel them away for the fall and winter, keeping this diet change sustainable. The simple addition of blackberries has been a positive change on many unexpected fronts. I feel more energy, it’s tasty, and it’s been an opportunity for mindfulness in my daily routine and more. I remind myself as I pick:

“When you are picking berries simply pick berries. Be fully engaged.”

Each day when I go out to pick, it’s an opportunity to simply slow down and observe; I must be mindful. The wild berries do not ripen at the same time, so I have to be fully present as I select which berries to pick and which berries to let lie. I mustn’t be rushed harvesting the ripe berries as they are very delicate. They will squish in my hand should I not be careful and deliberate. As I do this work, I have the opportunity to enjoy being immersed in nature. Being shined on by the sun, or protected by the clouds, and always watched by the trees. I can smell the heat of the day or the cool musk of the fresh rain. I’ve found I really enjoy the feel of the berries as I determine if they are ripe enough or too ripe to be handled. Of course, I naturally pop the slightly overripe berries in my mouth as I go, enjoying the signature flavor of summer here in the PNW. I’ve even come to enjoy the occasional prick of a thorn or entangling of a vine; it’s all part of the experience that keeps me present and engaged.

“Some for today, some for tomorrow, and some for my dear friend.”

I have found that picking a little more than I need each day allows me to save blackberries for the off season and to share with dear friends. This action is simple and reminds me of the abundance I have all around. It also allows me to be self-sufficient and not let the gifts of the berries go to waste. I rinse the berries, and store them in labeled freezer bags so they will keep through the off season. I’ve found this additional work to be very rewarding.

“The unexpected results can be as powerful as the intended outcome.”

I couldn’t have predicted that this simple addition to my diet would have such effects. I can feel it adding to my health as I start feeling more energy, more calm, and a sense of satisfaction knowing I am taking time to nourish my body. It’s also given me a new opportunity to practice mindfulness, find movement, enjoy the outdoors, be more self-sufficient, and bring joy and life to others. As I really start tuning in to my health, I’m realizing it’s the small actions that add up to big results. They create momentum and give us glimpses of feeling better. These glimpses keep us engaged and prime us to do the deeper work of finding health.

May you go forth and pick berries.

-Jordan