WE ARE STRONG

In light of the CO-VID19 pandemic and the hype it has caused, stocking up on foods and other items has been a hot topic. While what you are hearing in the news can be scary, know that our community is strong and collectively, as we work together, we will emerge from this time more closely-aligned with our values and in deeper connection to what nourishes us.

SLOWING DOWN

We are so fortunate to live in a region where healthy food is readily accessible, and we should take full advantage during this unprecedented time to slow down and really look at our food sources and how we are choosing to interact with nourishment in our lives. There are many ways that we can utilize this time to seek and pursue opportunities.

OPPORTUNITY

Have you been putting off really diving into your detox cleanse? What about dusting off that old cookbook that you haven't cracked in a few years to learn how to integrate healthy ingredients to feed yourself and your family. How about putting down the phone, turning on some music, and deep-dive organizing your home? Being in a more organized space creates more balance in your life. This is also a great time to spend quality time with your children. A time to learn how to relax and gain some useful, lifelong tools to decrease stress. Stress makes many health conditions worse, so the less -- the better! Can you set aside some time and just cultivate a list of all the things in life you are grateful for? A Gratitude Practice is one of the best combats for anxiety and depression.

PREPARING WITH ABUNDANCE

Stocking your pantry to make sure you have ingredients for healthful meals means your immune system is also prepared. Perhaps you can cultivate a list from that dusty cookbook, or refer to our suggestions below to assist your planning.

• Canned foods- make sure to buy, if possible, BPA free. In this category, beans, legumes, soups, vegetables, and fruits packed in water and not syrup. There are also frozen options in this category if all the canned food is temporarily out.

• Whole grains- brown and wild rice, quinoa, oatmeal, millet. These come in bags or boxes and have a long shelf life. Cooking quinoa and rice in vegetable stock or chicken broth makes it tastier.

• Dried fruits- these are a great treat during this time of stress. You can also add them to oatmeal and make your own trail mix with nuts and seeds.

• Alternative milks- including coconut, almond, hemp, macadamia, and oat. These can be stored longer than dairy milk and do not need to be refrigerated until opened.

• Nuts and seeds- make sure to buy organic, when possible. They make great snacks and can be added to soups, salads of all types, and trail mixes, as mentioned above.

• Fruits and vegetables- these are the best for the immune system, since they pack in a lot of micronutrients and antioxidants. Fresh produce can be frozen or dried and saved for later for soups, smoothies, and lunches/dinners.



• Lean meats- these can be frozen and used to make yummy lunches and dinners. Make sure to buy organic and/or grass-fed when possible. Keep in mind that local farmers also have meats and eggs available for sale.

WISHING YOU WELL

I hope this helps and you and your loved ones stay healthy and positive during this unique time.

We hope that you choose to see this time as an opportunity to dive deep into a lifestyle of health. Let us know how we can support you. And stay tuned to our blog for even more resources on how you can take advantage of this time of increased stillness (or at least decreased in-person social interaction) as a chance to cultivate even better wellness.

—BE WELL—