The following are gathas or verses recited by Chinese Mahayana monks and nuns as part of mindfulness training. These verses are adapted from "The Essential Vinaya for Daily Use" by Master Duti and "The Summary of the Novice Vinaya" by Master Yunqi and updated by Thich Nhat Hanh:
Before eating:
The Buddha advises us to be mindful
while we eat,
to be in touch with the Sangha and the food.
Brothers and sisters, when you hear the bell,
meditate on the Five Contemplations:
This food is the gift of the whole universe -
the earth, the sky, and much hard work.
May we be worthy to receive it.
May we transform unskillful states of mind,
especially the habit of eating without moderation.
May we take only foods that nourish us
and prevent illness.
We accept this food to realise
the path of understanding and love.
Before eating:
Beings all over the Earth
are struggling to live.
I aspire to practice deeply
so all may have enough to eat.
Beginning to eat:
With the first taste, I offer joy.
With the second, I help relieve
the suffering of others.
With the third, I see others' joy as my own.
With the fourth, I learn the way of letting go.
Looking at your plate or bowl after eating:
The meal is finished,
and I am satisfied.
The four gratitudes*
are deeply in my mind.
*the four gratitudes - gratitude to parents, teachers, friends, and all beings.
(from "Stepping into Freedom" by Thich Nhat Hanh)
