Savoring Every Moment: A Mindful Afternoon at Eli’s

with Mindfulness and Gratitude

Author

Peggy Gleason
April 09, 2025

This week, I had one of those beautiful, soul-nourishing afternoons that gently reminds

you what it means to slow down and really be present.

I met a dear friend for lunch at Eli’s in Franklinton, NC—a cozy spot that has become a

quiet favorite of ours.

As soon as I pulled into the parking lot, I knew what kind of afternoon it would be.

You know the kind:

  • sunshine warming your shoulders,

  • a soft cool breeze in the air,

  • and that deep breath you take as you realize you're exactly where you need to be.

Eli’s is one of those places where the ambiance wraps around you like a warm hug.

From the moment you walk in,

it’s as if the rest of the world softens.

I always find myself admiring the charming wall decor—pieces that seem to hold stories—

and I can’t help but notice the cheerful energy of the people dining there.

Happy faces, relaxed conversation, the clinking of silverware—all signs of people enjoying

not just their meals, but their moments.

As we sat down and opened our menus,

I realized how mindful I felt—how completely there I was.

This wasn’t just about eating lunch. It was about connecting.

With my friend, with the flavors on my plate, with the peaceful environment around me.

Our conversation flowed easily, filled with laughter, updates, and the kind of comfort that

only long friendships bring.

When the food arrived, I didn’t rush.

I didn’t feel the need to clear my plate in record time. Instead, I noticed everything—

the colors, the textures, the flavors. I found myself naturally slowing down, taking sips of water between bites, listening more intently, and pausing to smile.

I ended up eating only a portion of my lunch—not because I wasn’t enjoying it,

because I was savoring it.

Lucky me—I got to bring the rest home for later!

Mindful eating is often talked about in terms of what’s on your plate,

I was reminded this week that it’s so much more than that. It’s about tuning into your environment, your emotions, your company.

It’s about knowing when you’re full—not just physically but emotionally fulfilled too.

This simple lunch at Eli’s was a beautiful reminder that mindfulness can meet us anywhere,

even at a small table on a sunny afternoon, with a good friend and a plate of something delicious.

If my talk inspired you, or if you simply believe in giving back to help others heal and grow,

I invite you to make a contribution — big or small — and be part of this ripple of

kindness. 💞

With gratitude,
 Dr. Peggy Gleason


Certified Psychology of Eating Coach
Helping professional women transform their relationship with food and body

P.S. Join Dr. Peggy’s Stop Emotional Eating Skool Group, where we dive deeper into mindful eating, emotional balance, and how to break free from the cycle of stress-driven eating.

💬 Inside the group, you’ll get:
✔️ Expert guidance from Dr. Peggy on emotional eating and energy balance
✔️ A supportive community of like-minded women on the same journey
✔️ Practical tips, challenges, and strategies to create a healthier relationship with food

Let’s eat with purpose and fuel our body, mind, and soul together! 💛

This exclusive community is designed for professional women who are ready to break free from emotional eating, boost their confidence, and develop a healthier relationship with food—without restrictive diets.

Join now to be the first to access expert-led courses, live Q&As, and a supportive network of like-minded women! 💃✨ 

Stay tuned for updates and just click the link if you want to be one of the first to join!


🔍 Inside This Episode:

Dr. Peggy welcomes special guest Marla Regan, founder of Organized Time.

With over 40 years of experience helping women create order out of chaos,

Mara shares her wisdom on everything from time management to taming the clutter in your closet—or your life.

🧺 From her first organizing project as a child—arranging dresses by sleeve length—to founding her own business on her 40th birthday, Mara’s journey is as inspiring as it is practical.

🌟 In This Episode You’ll Discover:

Why you might be super organized at work, but overwhelmed at home

The one system that keeps your keys from getting lost in a bowl of peppermints

How to organize a workspace when your “office” is your dining table

Why it’s crucial to wait before buying bins, boxes, and shelving

The power of “do nothing time” and how it supports productivity

“I’ve been doing this since I was a wee one… organizing my closet instead of napping.”

“Tomorrow begins the night before. Pack up today so you can unpack tomorrow.”

“Professional doesn’t mean perfect. I’m not the only one who lives in my house!”

“Give me coffee and nobody gets hurt.” ☕

🎁 Bonus Gift: Marla’s Ideal Week Calendar is yours!

It’s a beautiful way to map out your time, protect your peace, and plan your priorities.

📬 Contact Mara:

Email her at [email protected] to claim a free 20-minute session.

You’ll walk away with at least one action step toward better productivity, planning, or clutter control.

✨ Plus—Dr. Peggy’s Closing Invitation:

Healing your relationship with food begins when you listen to what your body (and life) are trying to tell you.

Join the supportive community inside the Stop Emotional Eating Skool Community at ProfessionalWomansWellness.com and finally ditch the guilt for good.

Transcript

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