Habits aren’t just behaviors — they are neural patterns.

Neurons that fire together wire together. Every time you think, act, or feel the same way, the same neural circuits are fired by your brain. Eventually the circuits become automatic, becoming a neural groove.

Meditation helps you interrupt these automatic patterns. By sitting still and observing your thoughts instead of acting out your thoughts, you are weakening the neural circuits. Over time, you can reprogram your mind by making new patterns of thinking and acting.

About a year ago, I discovered the wonders of brown butter.

Brown butter, or beurre noisette in French, is simply butter that has been melted and cooked until the milk solids turn golden brown. The process unlocks a deep nutty aroma (similar to toasted hazelnuts) that transforms ordinary butter into a gourmet ingredient. It has a nutty, rich, caramelized flavor that pairs well with the bitter, earthy, aromatic taste of matcha.

Here is a recipe for brown butter matcha white chocolate chip cookies that will be sure to elevate your palate.