Sometimes, you just need to start over
Life will inevitability lead to roadblocks, forks of decision, and sometimes, pitfalls…
As we cruise along the road of life, we often find ourselves in phases of serenity, cruising along the smooth road without a care in the world; in this state, we find ourselves to be content and dare I say, happy. It is in this blissful, safe state that we find it the easiest to just be. Other times, we find there is no way to escape the fog. The dark shadows of night seem to follow our every move, swallowing up any light or joy that attempts to emerge in rebellion as we seek to find our way out, back onto the well-light road of serenity.
Despite which side of the road you are on, or whether you are nestled squarely on the center line, tethering, there comes a point when the inevitable occurs, pushing us towards a point of decision we are not ready to handle. These trying times, tests of will and faith may seem hard or impossible, even more defeating than being lost in the fog, but in reality, they are challenges designed to bring out the best in you.
Understandably, you may feel calling some of the woes, worries, and heartbreaks of life challenging is minimizing the pain felt by those impacted, but that is not the intent. Hard times come, and challenges arise and there is no doubt that some challenges are devastating, even fatal… a fatal prognosis, the loss of a loved one, even losing one’s self. None of these situations should be wanted experiences, but they happen. It is not what happens that defines us though; it’s how we preserve.
Today, I heard the story of a man diagnosed with a brain tumor. The person spoke of how he remember, all these years later, how with the finite amount of time this individual had left, they dedicated their time to investing in others, particularly children. When I personally observed a gentleman with brain cancer, he too had demonstrated a sense of ease with his situation, which naturally brought calmness and serenity to those he influenced. These men turned their biggest life challenge, and fuel a passion to make things better for others. It is not just with health situations that this occurs though. I’ve seen women who were abused, battered, or broken seek out opportunities or even create ministries to help other people navigate the pain they experienced; they made their life test a testimony. But, the reality is, this is not an instantaneous process; it takes time and the amount of time needed for you to rise up and out of your challenge cannot be determined by others. We often let others define our healing process, put a timeline healing process, or assign an agenda to help us “process” the experience based on their needs, perspective, or reality. But, this is not only unrealistic; it is not feasible. We all need different things to heal. Holistic health embraces wellness wholly, choosing what is optimal for your well-being based on scientific evidence merged with your intuition. You may need a year of counseling, and that is alright. Even if you need five, there is no timeline. You may be able to thrive with only changes for which you have some semblance of control or maybe you need medical intervention. No journey is perfectly defined nor will we all be alright with a one-size-fits-all approach. The beauty that lies in overcoming your challenge is that you can actively decide and be a part of the process. From the most fatal situations to the most unexpected changes in circumstances, you can grow, learn, and even positively influence others based on how you navigate your life challenges. The most important thing to remember though, is you have to be open, willing, and vulnerable enough to take the first step in starting over after the challenge. Leaving yourself in a state of mental, emotional, spiritual, or even financial defeat will not serve you well. Though it is an option, it is not the best. Staying in a paralyzing state of fear forever will also not serve you well, nor will it allow you to turn your mess into a message or your test into a testimony. While there is no rush in moving forward and navigating out of the fog, remember this, every moment you delay is a heart untouched by your light, love, wisdom, and influence. Every time you choose to delay stepping out into the unknown, you push your blessings down the road. Freedom is necessary to start over, no matter how much of our finite time is left on this beautiful Earth. Freedom from fear of release. Navigate the pain, seek the support you deserve, and take the time you need, but remember to let the process be a process of healing and release, rather than a self-imposed prison of defeat.
Wishing you well..one moment, one breath, one step at a time, allow yourself to start over, at your own pace, in your own time. Be Remade as your past or present challenges do not define you; they were made to empower you.
Image by Joshua_j_Woroniecki on Unsplash
Hind Sight is 20/20
Often our tears of joy are reaped through songs of gratitude.
Life can be challenging and this year brought about more complex challenges that impact our health on a global scale. In fact, the year raised so many examples of how much eco-health impacts us all on so many levels; economically, financially, socially, physically, emotionally. No stone was left untouched this year. Even our spiritual foundations of what we hold true and dear were tested as we all went through a differing array of emotions through this 2020 pandemic.
As the year winds down, it is easy to gasp for air as we may feel the closing of this year will birth a sigh of relief. Hope of better to come on the horizon often leaves us motivated to get up and try again. While this attitude is of great value, it is also important to remember that with each rising sun, new challenges will come. How we choose to face them is important, but the often overlook element of how we learn from them and put this to our benefit and the benefit of others is just as, if not a more vital element to ponder. We know we have the potential to grow from our circumstances. The weather marks of our bruised hands reflect the many thorns we may have had to grab onto to get us to this point, but without the moment of gratitude from what may have seemed to be a hindrance, we will miss the beauty of our triumph, the grace of our blessing and the solitude found with knowing that our circumstances led to a sharpening of our sword. Yes, we are wiser, stronger, and more resilient with each passing of a conquered battle, challenge, or even defeat. Yet, when we forget to take a moment to reflect, reassess, and sit in stillness within an atmosphere of gratitude, the lessons are missed and an expanded perspective is not gain. In this everchanging world, we cannot afford to become stagnated by our own self-limiting beliefs or stubbornness to grow. We must take the stance of appreciation towards every situation, for when we do so, our light radiates brighter and our ability to influence others extends beyond our words. People model the behaviors that see. When you have come out of the flames and fire standing stronger, taller, and more refined, our character shows a reflection of who we truly are at our core and our actions and attitudes will be present for others to model. We have the power of influence, which of course starts with the actions and attitudes we model from our mirror reflections of self-worth, self-awareness, and extensions of grace.
What will your hindsight vision of 2020 be going forward?
Will it show that despite the unexpected, the unique challenges and possible moments of defeat, the character of a bold, confident and empowered woman who has a positive perspective not covered by falsies of Pollyanna, but rather drenched in the overflow of abundance found within the cracks of the crumbling sidewalk? Will you choose to stand firm in your understanding that even in the saddest of moments, you can find a lesson for which only you were destined to teach, a message only your mess could have prepared you to preach or an eye-opening example of how even in the worst of circumstances, joy and gratitude can be found and grace extended.
With age, often comes wisdom and maturity. So, this lesson I have learned, and although I know your wisdom around the subject is every present, with the dark shadows seemingly present to loom over the lamps of so many life-giving people this year, I wanted to be that small voice reminding you to choose to extend grace for the goals you may not have achieved, to extend kindness to those who may not have been present in the way you expected them to be, to allow yourself the space to mourn for those who you may have lost during this time of confusion, relinquish the fear of the unknown, and be open the truth that even with everything going on, small blessings still filled our hearts, our hands, and our plates, no matter how differently it came, this year.
Wishing you a moment of serenity this holiday season. For our perspectives and our health for forever intertwined; for this reason, I hope you choose an attitude of life.
Grow Your Business with Confidence
Best Eco-Friendly Gifts For Teens
Please note that for any use of the links provided, I will get a small commission at no expense to you for items purchased. Only links that will provide you true values, save you time, reduce your stress, bolster your health and support you and the planet through eco-holistic principles will be posted. Values are important.
I love Christmas! It is such a great time of giving and spreading love & cheer.
We even have the added bonus of getting to show loved ones we care through connection, extra time spent together, and yes at times, presents.
Personally, I feel as though Christmas is celebrated every day of the year through our actions. The act of gift-giving is great but I always have tried to make the gifts meaningful or mentally stimulating and beneficial for those whom I purchase them.
I have found that the more I learn about transitioning to an eco-holistic lifestyle, the more intentional my shopping habits are becoming and for certain items are more challenging, if impossible, to find. Let’s face it; this progressive movement to a more sustainable, ethically sourced, eco-friendly, and minimal lifestyle is challenging. Not all boxes for all products can be ticked and the transition, at least for me, has taken time.
Still, you do the best you can and get better as time progresses. One thing it has been time-consuming. And you know I feel time and people are the more precious of all, as neither is replaceable. I also believe in putting up the time to do things upfront so there is time saved for me or others on the backend. And that is where this blog comes in.
As a Stress and Health Recovery Coach whose focus is on serving women, I understand that being attentive to supporting ways to reduce stress for mothers is essential, especially those of you who are business owners, entrepreneurs, professionals, or mothers with more than one obligation. So, I looked to find some great gift ideas for children and teens that would be fun or mentally stimulating.
So without further ado, here are the Top 5 Best Eco-friendly Gifts for your Kids this Holiday Season.
Top 5 Eco-Gifts For Kids
Photo By: The Ultimate Green Store
This toy is for your little mastro to cultivate their music skills through fun interaction and play on their very own Grand Piano.
Photo By: The Ultimate Green Store
2. Pinball
A pinball machine made of wood! How cool is that? Seriously? This brings an eco-twist to an old classic. Enjoy the game with your kids without the toxins or plastic. Designed for kids 3 and older, this will be enjoyable for them as they continue to grow.
Photo By: The Ultimate Green Store
3. Eco-Friendly 2-in-1 Shuffleboard Game
Who doesn’t love a great game of shuffleboard? My son wanted to play shuffleboard more than go to the beach when we were in Hawaii. It is a great way for them to get up and move while having a good time. This has both disc flicking and shuffleboard.
Photo By: The Ultimate Green Store
5. Eco-Friendly Fantasy Blocks
Blocks are always a great way for kids to play and build motor skills. This set takes it a step further and added the element of fantasy to boost imagination. WIth knight, a queen, and even a dragon, they will surely make your little ones light up with joy and adventure.
4. Magnetic Board Game
This game is super creative. Two players battle to get a goal on their opponent’s side. Great for kids three and older, it is a great eco-friendly and non-electronic toy for play.
Photo By: The Ultimate Green Store
Top 5 Eco-Gifts For Teens
Who doesn’t love a good vinyl record? If you have a music-loving teen on your hands, this may be a great gift that will provide joy for years to come. Made from sustainable products such as bamboo and recyclable aluminum, with anti-skipping control, this is a gift they will never forget. Introducing them to the classic sounds of vinyl records and allowing them to mix up their own wonderful music creations will surely put a smile on all of your faces.
2. Positive Vibration 2 Bluetooth On-Ear Headphones by House of Marley
In keeping with the theme of music, these headphones are a great way to equip your teen with Bluetooth headphones crafted from FSC-Certified Wood and recyclable aluminum. With a 10-12 hour battery life, consider these as a lasting option as opposed to a cheap plastic pair that will break quickly. I’ve been there.
3. Get Together Mini Bluetooth Speaker by House of Marley
This is the last music one, I promise. But seriously, they can use this for movies, music, or even for calming meditation. Another special by House of Marley, these mini speakers are equipped with two 2.5” woofers, a range of up to 15 meters, and 10 hours of play. It is a great option for any eco-focus family looking for a speaker solution.
4. Stone Paper Pocket Diary 3 Pack by A Good Company
It may sound silly but journaling is quite therapeutic and let’s face it, kids today have a lot to deal with. Teens especially face challenges are often, they are not always ready to talk. This is a way to allow them a release without them feeling as though you are being overbearing, possibly straining the relationship. It is simple, thoughtful and with a loving note to explains its purpose, you may be inviting them to open up to themselves through the pages of this recycled booked. Just a thought to consider.
Photo By: EarthHero
Photo By: EarthHero
5. Virutoso Satchel by Haiku
Last, but not least, a tote or bag is a great gift for a teen! Now, know that this was made from recycled plastic, but that’s plastic not in the sea. Your teen can use it for their books, or when they go out with friends, look stylish and know that their bag was made with eco-friendly principles for which your family stands. You may want to grab yourself one as well.
Hope you find what you are looking for and may your season be bright!
Minicast Ep. 3 Eco-Health with Holistic Lee - Entrepreneur Focus: Time Saving Hack
Here at Holistic Lee Wellness, trustworthiness is important. Therefore, I want to let you know that while I have linked many items for your convenience and to save you time, some of the links below are affiliate links. This means a small commission is given to me if you choose some of the links. The first use of these links will have a * by them to let you know.
Time hacks. We all know them. We all love them. Why? Think about it. Time and people are the two most valuable resources we have; neither is replaceable. My key focus is on supporting others with reducing (dis)tress and learning ways to better capitalize your time is key for the mental wellbeing of business owners.
With the paperback copy release of my book Master Your Mind, Mind Your Message being released this holiday season, I felt another assessment of time hacks for entrepreneurs and business owners was due.
I looked at what has helped me the most starting as a business owner, as a single mother, and as someone transitioning to a more eco-centric lifestyle. After all, streamlining processes will leave you with more time to do what you love!
First and foremost, finding a great platform to support your industry and keep you organized. For me as a Coach, I tried Practice Better and Satoria first. While they were good platforms, for me Satoria had room to improve for streamlining, and Practice Better has so many features, it was overwhelming for me. Still, they are both great platforms. Finding a platform that works well for you and your niche is important. You may even consider using a Personal Assistant! Look for what makes life implied by combining many features you require to run your business efficiently, try it out, and then let the AI do the rest. For me, Awarenow.io* was the platform match made in heaven. It allows me to connect with my clients while connecting with a community of other coaches. Other coaching platforms like Coaching Cloud also do this for coaches, but maybe for you, it is a Facebook community or a SCORE group and mentor. Support from an AI platform coupled with support from others in your field will not only reduce stress but allow you to learn from their mistakes, possibly saving time over the long haul.
Another way to manage your business without sacrificing all of your time is to automate your online presence. Let’s face it. Having a presence on Social Media is essential for growth. It is one way we stay connected and allows our community to establish an authentic rapport with us. But, it can be a HUGE time suck (excuse my French). Seriously, it can take up so much time. I wanted to find a way to ensure I could stay connected with my audience without investing so much time into posting that I did not have the bandwidth to connect with my clients or my son. Not cool! Eco-health in this space is all about balance. So, I did some research and found 2 great options! MeetEdgar* and Smarterqueue*! Both afforded me the opportunity to expand my reach in an authentic way. I made the post in advance and the system did the rest. It is great! You can use block scheduling to implement and categorize your posts with both services. Personally, I fell in love with Smarterqueue, so much so that I am heading there for their Sale to get a 40% discount! It is so intuitive, simple and I want to use it. It is also exciting when people see the post and respond because it impacted them in a positive manner; that is what it is really all about anyway.
Ok, let’s sum up our talk for today:
Find a platform, niche-specific, that helps you stay organized and connected with your customers or clients.
Consider a Personal Assistance to handle tasks that will free up your time to do more creative work that only you can birth.
Connect with others in your field, find a mentor or a platform that serves as your organizer and connection hub.
Choose to automate Social Media in a way that you can still be authentically engaged with your audience. They deserve the best of you and this allows you to bring that in more than one way!
If you still feel you need support with maintaining balance for your health and your business, there are still slots available in my 60-Day Rapid Wellness Reset Program. Email me for details.
Hope that was helpful. Until next time, stay amazing, stay well, and remember to never let anyone dim your light!
Fall Meal Delights: Qunioa & Butternut Squash
It is Fall Fam!
Special note. I love honesty and so I am letting you know that there are links in this blog from which I get a small commission. Do not worry, I will not recommend anything unless it will add value to you and yours and I feel the company has good intentions to make eco-wellness just a little bit easier for us all.
Despite the challenges we have all faced this year, the holiday season and Fall bring warmth and joy to my heart. I love to see the changing colors of the leaves and the sight of my Christmas tree. Yes, my tree is already up and ready! I must be honest though, one of my favorite things besides me setting up the Christmas tree early in anticipation is the variety of squash available during the holiday season. Acorn squash, winter squash, butternut squash…the list goes on and on and my smile gets bigger and brighter!
I share a recipe overview with squash previously but this one I had to share as well. It is so simple, anyone can make it. And with the use of clay crockpot, you just made dinner a whole lot easier and healthier!
Need a crockpot? Use the coupon HOLISTICLEEWELL and get 10% off your next purchase.
Image: VITALCLAY Chef
So, here it is! The recipe of simplicity and delight! Enjoy the sweet undertones from the butternut squash!
Simple Eats
Quinoa and Butternut Squash Sauce
Recipe Details
1) Preheat the oven to 380°F. 2) Slice the butternut squash in half. Take out the seeds. lightly glaze with Extra Virgin Olive Oil or Avocado Oil. Sprinkle Himalayan salt. Put in the oven to bake for 30-40 mins or until tender.
3) Add 1 cup of quinoa and 1 cup of water into the Clay crockpot on Rice setting for 30 minutes. Remove and set aside.
4) Add Butternut Squash into a blender with 1/2 cup of water, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, Himalayan salt, paprika, and oregano. Add 1/2 tablespoon of nutritional yeast and blend until smooth.
5) Mix all the ingredients in a bowl well and then serve.
That is it! It takes less than an hour and it is very simple.
For more simple recipes to nourish the body and mind, stay tuned and remember, it’s your meal; tailor it to your liking!
Stay Well!
Special thank you to Photo by Dan Dennis on Unsplash for the image.
Entrepreneur Health & Wellness Tips
This blog post is dedicated to Entrepreneurs’ Health!
With the pending release of my book Master Your Mind, Mind Your Message coming this holiday season to print, I thought it was high time to focus on Entrepreneurs and Business Owners!
Coming to hard copy Fall 2020!
We know my focus is on Stress and Health Recovery and both are centerfold conversations when the topic of business ownership is on the table. Not only are they working to serve through their purpose, but they are taking the path less chosen; the path of financial uncertainty.
As an entrepreneur, the world is on your shoulders. If you are not able to produce results, this will impede your ability to care for the basic survival needs of you and your family. That is a lot of pressure that can put too much strain on an individual. We all know that our perspective impacts our reality and how we respond to different circumstances. The fine line between distress and eustress can often be perspective. Still, we all having a breaking point, and taking time to focus on our mental wellbeing will not only bolster our health on a physiological level, it will also impact our ability to run our businesses effectively and efficiently. After all, you cannot give what you do not have and if you are running on empty, then your efforts to serve will be mute, no matter the capacity.
What can we do?
There is no set way to conquer your stress that has an edge over all others. We are all different. We all have different needs and respond to situations differently. So, naturally, our approaches to managing the chaos will different. Still, I have a few suggestions below to get you started.
First, acknowledge that we need to be present to maintain your own sanity. Then, look for what centers you.
Look to manage your life in a way to leaves time to recharge.
Set realistic goals and expectations. Grace, kindness, and patience are key.
Use block scheduling to manage your priorities and emphasize priorities and you schedule your day.
There you have it. All great ways to maintain the chaos during the holidays.
If you are looking for more ways and support to remain your mental wellbeing while running your business efficiently, now is the perfect time to enroll in my program specifically designed for Entrepreneurs. Designed as a complement to my book, this program will teach you to manage the chaos without sacrificing your mental health. If you enroll before 1 December 2020, you can get 50% OFF! That’s right. Simply email me with the words, “I WANT IN” before the deadline and you will get a slot for 50% OFF!
How’s that for holiday cheer?
For more insight into the importance of mental health, consider this article by Awarenow.io.
Until next time, I look forward to supporting your well-being as your Stress & Health Recovery Coach with tips and insights to keep you well from an eco- and holistic health perspective.
Stay Amazing!
Special thank you to Photo by Christina @ wocintechchat.com on Unsplash for the cover photo!
Minicast Ep. 2 Eco-Health with Holistic Lee - Why this Minicast?
What’s a Minicast?
A Minicast is a mini-podcast. As you have noticed, I do not do a 10-page long blog post or 50-minute videos. Just like with my other content, I want to serve you the best information in a smaller segment so you can get back to what’s most important to you: your family, your growth, your health.
Why Eco-Health?
Simply put, the focus of this blog and my coaching is Holistic Health. Eco-health is apart of that holistic approach to wellness. After all, our actions impact more than just our bubble. What we eat, how we dress, how well we take care of ourselves impact our community, our families, and even people we do not know. It impacts whether there are people being hurt to get the products you buy or the number of pollutants being created for the things we consume. I for one am not immune to mistakes or under some illusionistic perspective that we can have total control over every situation that happens as a trickle effect of our actions. Nor am I perfect (as perfectionism is an illusive term anyway). I am just on a journey to transition to a more eco-friendly, ethically sustainable, socially responsible, and self-accountable way of caring for myself, my family, and those within my sphere of influence.
So, no this is not me being judgemental to anyone. In fact, that is counterintuitive to my message & moto.
It is simply me seeking to help make our lives, health, and earth a better place, one small step at a time.
Every small action we take, impacts more than just us. It is not about feeling guilty. It is about taking small actionable steps we feel comfortable with to help support a better life for ourselves and future generations.
Every small action we take impacts more than just us. It is not about feeling guilty. It is about taking small actionable steps we feel comfortable with to help support a better life for ourselves and future generations. Small steps are best. Take it from me; I tried to go all-in and fell hard…it hurt. But now I understand that it’s about small steps of progress, not feeling shame or guilt, and pressing forward towards the end goal.
Together, we thrive better. It is too hard to take on the world, much easy to do one thing for our health and the wellbeing of our environment.
So, what’s the Point?
I will provide information and you take it for what it is worth; just information to help make informed decisions about your wellness that best suits your lifestyle, values, and virtuous principles.
Eco-health can and does impact you on a physiological level. My goal with this is to provide insight for ways to bolster your health and wellness by reducing your (dis)tress, maximize your time, improve your overall health and of course, help you shine your light.
If we are all intertwined and interconnected, let’s uncover the ways to best support our health. I will do the research and save you time. You can enjoy the ride! I am still learning to navigate the eco-part but each step I take brings fulfillment.
A special thank you for the beautiful photos by Sharon Pittaway on Unsplash and macrovector on Freepik. For the cover image, thank you to macrovector again!
Minicast Ep. 1 - Eating Well Purposefully- Actionable Step
Who doesn't love fresh garden food? The is nothing better than the taste of a freshly picked herb or vegetable right out of a garden. Yet, harsh climates or a slight inclination to avoid bugs may put us off from seeking to try out a more hands-on approach to the treasured art of growing food.
Health is
more than just what we eat.
Key things to note: This blog contains affiliate links from companies with good intentions to make eco-wellness just a little bit easier. I get a small commission at no expense to you. You get a great product or service to improve your health, maximize your time or reduce your stress.
Well, there is a solution! Have you heard of indoor gardening? A slightly rhetorical question to get you excited, but the truth is, this can be a great option, and it can be done soil-free...
Now you know I am all about stress reduction and wellness. Having control of how your food is made takes the guesswork out of the equation. You know your food was made without toxins, pesticides, or harm to other creatures. You know it will bolster your #guthealth and have great bioavailability for sufficient nutrient absorption and best of all, it will save you both time and money in the long haul!
How is that for stress reduction?
Now that you know some key ways to reduce your stress, footprint, and increase your ability to eat well, what approach do you plan to take?
Plant Herbs in your kitchen
Potted Plants to increase mood
Small vegetables to grow in your home
Bonsai tree
Use coconut coil for growing food
Try out a vertical vegetable wall to grow in your home
I would love to know what worked best for you.
Until next time, this is Holistic Lee saying thank you for taking 5 to learn about ways to improve your eco-health and wellbeing, without sacrificing too much time or your values.
Special thank you to Freepiks for the amazing images: Photo by pvcproductions on Freepik and Photo by Scott Webb on Unsplash.
Of Squash and Potatoes
Delicious food is a common joy that puts a smile on even the most grumpiest of faces. It is nourishing, comforting, and delightful. After all, food was meant to be a source of nourishment to the soul and body, not contention, shame, or guilt.
We must strike balance in our approach to nourishment and with that concept of balance comes fearlessness.
Experimenting with different flavors and techniques can be fun, without breaking the wallet or time bank. So, that is what I do; try out different ideas to mix nourishing foods, seeking to find ones that complete each other, and gain another notch in my kitchen toolbelt.
This recipe fits my bill. It was easy, delicious, and fairly quick. It was a combination of butternut squash and potatoes! That is right!
FOOD OF THE MONTH: BUTTERNUT SQUASH
Bake butternut Squash at 370 degrees F for ~40 minutes (depending on its size and your oven) and puree it down in a blender with 1/4 c of water and 1 tsp of Nutritional Yeast.
Pour this on sliced potatoes (pre-boiled for 5-8 minutes and dried), sliced button mushrooms, and sliced white onions lined in a pan.
Sprinkle Himalayan or Sea Salt and repeat the process.
Once the pan is filled with at least 3 layers, place the pan in the oven on 350 for 40 minutes.
Why am I not giving you a full recipe? Because I believe you have creativity within you. I give you the suggested ingredients and your version of joyful eats based on your unique style and pallet.
And please share your creation by emailing photos to lashanda@holisticleewellness.com anytime or #holisticleerecreates on Instagram!
A New Kind of Curry
Curry can be a great meal but there is room for recipe improvements if you want a healthier option.
This curry, I went with white beans to add some creative spice to my recipe! That is right!
Who says you have to use chickpeas? Creativity breeds joy and this certainly put a smile on our faces.
You know me. I am not for giving you exact measurements for spices; it is based upon your creative style and taste buds, but here are the guidelines for your weekly experiment:
2 cups of white beans
1 cup of Almond Milk (I used homemade, but plain milk will work)
1/2 Chopped Red Onion
1/2 a Chopped Medium Carrot
1/4 a Chopped Parsnip
1 1/2 cups of Cooked Brown Rice
Spices: Curry Powder, Himalayan Salt, Black Pepper, and Paprika. (If you are not sure, always start with 1/4 tsp and adjust based upon taste from there. Use at least 1/2 to 1 tsp of Curry powder). Additionally, I added 1/4 tsp of Nutritional Yeast but it is not required.
Steps:
Place the veggies in a pan with a small amount of water to cook briefly (3 minutes on med-low heat). Mix them and let them cook.
Add in the spices and the Almond Milk. Let it begin to cook and stew on medium-low heat until well mixed and infused. Every stove is different, but I let me stay for about 7 minutes.
Add in fully cooked brown rice into the mixture. Add water if you want to change the consistency of the sauce to adjust to your preference. Mix and let cook for about 2 minutes.
Plate and serve!
There you have it! Hope you all enjoy cooking with your own spin!
A New Spin on Red Lentil Chips
The holidays are over and the new year is in full swing. Yet, the family traditions of our small unit continue with our Friday night movie matinee.
Chips and dip continues to be our favorite meal but the busiest of the holiday season led to more store bought lentil chips rather than my preferred method of homemade. That was an act never made to last and with a new year came some cool revisions to old household classics.
Birth from the deepest of my seaweed loving mind came Nori Lentil chips and yes, they are delicious!
While I love to cook, I do appreciate simplicity and efficiency in the kitchen. Time is valuable and can never be reclaimed. So with that, I give you a nice tortilla or chip you can enjoy with your family.
Nori Lentil chips
¾ cup – whole red lentils
¼ cup – tapioca flour
1 tbspn – Himalayan or sea salt.
***NOTE, IF YOU WOULD NOT LIKE THE CHIPS TO BE SALTY, PLEASE USE ONLY 1/2 tablespoon.
½ cup of water
Directions
1) Turn the lentils into flour. I have a flour mill, but a high speed blender will work.
2) Mix with tapioca flour and salt.
3) Slowly add water and mix the batter.
4) Sprinkle in the nori.
5) Make 6 small balls. Press flat with a tortilla press or equivalent and bake.
6) For tortillas, bake for 10 minutes in 200 C (392/400 F) and for chips, bake for 20 minutes going after the first 10 minutes.
That's it! Enjoy!
Why Dieting is a Horrible New Years Resolution
Happy New Year! It is finally here, and we have not only entered a new year, but a new decade.
With new years we all feel a renewed sense for realigning our lives with a sense of purpose and growth, with goal setting being at the forefront of our to do list.
But have you ever considered that some goals may not lead us to our ultimate destination of happiness over the long haul?
Dieting is one of those “hot” terms that resurfaces with the dawn of every new year. In this video, I explore why choosing to diet may not be the best approach to long term success for a healthy, stress free life.
This is not a ploy to get you not to make and achieve your health goals by any means; goals are important. Rather, this is a different perspective for how to truly achieve lasting results.
Happy New Years again to you and yours!
Stay amazing!