Many gyms and fitness studios are closed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. As a person who loves to exercise, this was a big adjustment for me. So, I’ve had to change up my routine and find other ways to stay active during the shelter at home quarantine. Here are the 5 ways to stay in shape and maintain your mental and emotional health during this strange time.
(photo by Julie Hammer)
We are in extremely uncertain and scary times with the COVID-19 virus and recent shelter at home quarantine orders. Uncertainty of this magnitude can easily overwhelm us with anxious energy (not good for the immune system). So, how can we forget the hysteria and emanate peace during this crisis? First, it’s important to remember that even the slightest amount of calm energy can balance the fear.
As Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh explains: “When the crowded Vietnamese refugee boats met with storms or pirates, if everyone panicked all would be lost. But if even one person on the boat remained calm and centered, it was enough. It showed the way for everyone to survive.”
Did you know that sweet potatoes can boost your immune system??? This is good news since our media is in a whipped frenzy about the Corona Virus. All the hand wipes and sanitizer has been sold out so how else can you protect yourself? Build up your immune system. Eat lots of leafy green vegetables topped with these comfy cinnamon roasted sweet potatoes.
Several months ago, my husband and I watched The Game Changers, an inspiring documentary about elite athletes that were vegan (read more about that here). After the film, my husband said he wanted to, “go vegan” for a week. I’ve never pushed my way of eating on him, but in the 25 years we’ve been together, this was a first!!!
Once in awhile you come across powerful life lessons. This is one of those times. Read this through once, breathe deeply and read it again. Let her wisdom sink in and settle somewhere deep. It’s a strong antidote to many of our struggles. Then whenever you need a pick me up, pull this out and read it again!
Written by Regina Brett , 90 years old, of the Plain Dealer, Cleveland , Ohio …
Have you tried Bitchin’ Sauce yet or even heard of it? If not, you are in for a treat!! This bold vegan dip made with almonds, tastes tangy, garlicky and punchy. Best of all, it’s vibrant personality means no one will suspect it’s vegan!!! Even your veggie resistant friends will dig in. And, you can serve it in place of hummus (for those rare folks who shy away from this delicacy). So, it’s the perfect (vegan, gluten-free) Superbowl dip.
Tonight is the last day of 2019. A new decade approaches. I’ve made my list of what to leave behind and what to welcome into the new year. I’ve prepped some appetizers for tonight’s gathering with friends and neighbors. The champagne is chilling in the fridge but I”m also planning to sip my favorite martini to ring in the new year. This Crystal Clear (vegan) Chocolate Martini has no heavy cream nor milky liquids and it tastes like LIQUID CHOCOLATE.
If you want to give a special gift this holiday these Gift Worthy Spiced Pecans are the best gift to make. There is something special about giving and receiving a gift you crafted with love. It’s more personal than a click and ship package you buy on Amazon —and it’s far more original.
There are a few dishes that I can’t live without on Thanksgiving. I love a good stuffing (this year I made a quinoa mushroom stuffing), mashed potatoes (which are rarely made vegan so I don’t often get to eat them), cranberry sauce, a salad and I crave a perfectly spiced vegan pumpkin bread. In the past, my breads end up at the back of the food buffet. But this years spicy pumpkin bread got a prime spot right next to the mashy’s. A slice of this warmly spiced bread pulled together all the flavors on my dinner plate and several guests paid high compliments and asked for the recipe.
Ever Wonder How Vegans Get Enough Protein?
If so, you are not alone. As a vegan, I’m frequently asked:
“But How do You Get Protein?”
Or someone might dismiss the idea saying:
“Oh – I Could Never be Vegan, I Need my Protein”
So I’ve written this post for anyone who is unsure about how vegans get protein.