Practice Ways with Emily Scott
New adventures, laughter, eating well
Practice Ways is a monthly feature on Balance Practice that shares notes from writers, makers, coaches, and creatives, offering perspectives on what balance looks like as real life is happening.
I first came upon chef
’s work when I moved back to London after a few years in California, and she had my heart with the title of her first cookbook, Sea & Shore. The coast has always felt like home to me and in her words about living and cooking in Cornwall I felt a distinct recognition of my beloved Pacific Coast.I’m easily intimidated by recipes but find Emily’s approach to be so inviting. She welcomes you right into her kitchen and in doing so helps you to access your own. The book opens with, “HELLO, HELLO TO YOU... So, to begin, I have baked you a cake — my carrot cake.” Needless to say that cake has become my birthday and celebration go-to, a favorite in the minds and bellies of everyone in my home. There’s a beautiful simplicity to her food, which is practical and accessible, and her offerings have a unique way of connecting and feeling timely.
I spent a few weeks in Cornwall this summer where she lives part-time and I took her latest book, Tide & Time, along for local culinary inspiration. She writes about the rhythm of the seasons and the sea, and with headings like Rituals & Routines (A sense of balance), Gently does it, Child-like wonder, and Therapy, it feels like a book of practices. And so it is.
I’ve been intrigued to hear more about Emily’s approach not just to cooking but also to living. Daily strength and stretching is a mainstay ingredient — she uses a favorite routine that energizes her body and creates a pocket of time just for her. Not surprisingly, her notes on the themes of balance and practice are as delicious and succinct as her recipes.
What’s feeling really good to you in this season?
Saying yes to new adventures and opportunities. Not over thinking and simply going with the flow. My thoughts are not my reality.
What does balance look like for you right now?
Making time for myself. Enjoying moments instead of rushing from one thing to another. Being considered and thoughtful. Laughter, laugh often.
What practices support your sense of balance?
Cooking within the seasons and eating well. I love nothing more than heading to my market and gathering ingredients to cook with whether it is for myself or family and friends.
What’s one gesture toward center you’d invite everyone reading to partake with you today?
Respond do not react. Learning to slow down and be confident in your own self. Comparing yourself to others takes away so much joy. Be you!
is a chef and author, and writes Shore to Shore here on Substack. Her cooking ethos focuses on highlighting seasonal ingredients and letting them shine. She splits her time between her homes in Bordeaux and Cornwall, and her work commitments in the Caribbean. More delicious details at emilyscottfood.com.