Finding balance: Head versus body

I've always been interested in the struggle between our heads and our bodies.

As a health counselor, I tend to work for a lot of smart folks. People who know their stuff, are competent, brainy, and get the respect of their peers. It is this very strength of their that has led them to much success in their young life - a good education, and a respectable well-paying career. They tend to be hard-working, productive and more than willing to sacrifice the demands of their bodies.

One of my clients, for example, often skips meals. She works from home, starting her day with a cup of coffee and getting in front of her computer (no breakfast). When lunchtime nears, she'd often forgo it, opting for another hour of 'productive time.'

She continued this practice for months, sacrificing the needs of her body. Why? My guess is because she could get away with it. It was only until she became concerned with her weight that she requested my support.

It is important to remember that our bodies, like a car, need regular maintenance to keep running. After recognizing her problem, my client is now on the path to better health - limiting her computer usage and learning how to prepare some simple meals for herself. Practicing this self-care is what I try to teach my clients.

Our heads can help us balance our checkbook, but sometimes stand in the way of our health. Can you think of any other examples of where your head got in the way of what you truly wanted for yourself?

From NYT: A farming story, in numbers

If you've ever pondered a more simple existence, moving to the country and growing your own food, you're not alone. Just don't quit your day job.

On Sunday, the NY Times ran a story "Farm Living (Subsidized by a Job Elsewhere)," publishing figures that support this trend. From 2002 to 2007, the total number of farms increased (4 percent), as did the number of farmers reporting an additional income (65 percent). There were also loads of other interesting stories in the numbers, some good some sad.

Encouraging signs:

• The number of organic farms increased by 50 percent from 2002 to 2007
• American farmers are becoming more diverse - female farmers increased 30 percent and Hispanic farmers increased 10 percent from 2002 to 2007

Yet, it's clear there is also another story in this article - farming is a tough business:

• Of our nation's 2.2 million farms, 900,000 reported income of less than $2,500
• 5 percent of our total farms produce 75 percent of our agricultural output
• The average farmer is 57 years old!

I think it is essential that we support our small farmers. For anyone who's shopped at a farmers market, it is clear that they bring more than better tasting fruits and vegetables to the table. They also foster a sense of community. I literally think New Yorkers who take up arms if the city ever threatened to close down the Union Square Greenmarket.

Small farmers are also stewards of our agricultural traditions and heirloom varieties. As someone who use to work for a large food company, I am certain the possibility of 'one tomato to feed them all' is highly possibly if we let the suits takeover. Let's not forget the potato famine in Ireland was caused by growing only one strain of potato.

I support my local farmer by buying from local Greenmarkets, the Park Slope Food Co-op, and my CSA (Community Supported Agriculture). Anyone else feel strongly about the need to support our local farmers? What else can we do to support them?

FoodMatters: A must-see film

The makers of FoodMatters sure know their audience.

In addition to being passionate about holistic health and nutrition, I must admit I am a sucker for a good corporate conspiracy flick.

Yet it is rare that a film on food and health comes out that isn't more than just a lecture. FoodMatters presents a truly watchable film, that I have no doubt you will enjoy (especially if you are reading this blog).

I was invited to a private screening by my friend Simone in Manhattan and was surprised how much I enjoyed it. You'd think I would have heard it all before, but for some reason I needed to watch this film.

When you're living in Park Slope, Brooklyn, and are surrounded by a community of eco-conscious folks that are into healthy eating, it is easy to forget about the importance of it all.

We spend billions of dollars in pharmaceuticals and health care, yet our hospitals continue to serve white bread and Jell-o.

We advocate eating more fruits and vegetables, yet the products sold on the market today contain a fraction of the nutrition content of those sold thirty years ago.

If you're interested in learning 'why' I strongly suggest watching this film. Other films to throw into the Netflix queue: The Corporation and The Real Dirt on Farmer John

Organ meats = Health Food?

If it seems like a crazy idea, you have probably not read the teachings of Sally Fallon and the Weston Price Foundation.

When I was a student at Integrative Nutrition several years ago, we had been given her book, Nourishing Traditions, which promotes consuming more nutrient-dense animal foods.

I doubt Fallon was trying to make friends when she spoke at our school, when the majority of students, like myself were practicing a version of the vegetarian or vegan diet. In fact, the subtitle of her book reads, "The cookbook that challenges politically correct nutrition and the diet dictocrats."

Red meat, duck fat, lard - these are some of the foods recommended by Fallon. She is also a strong advocate of raw milk and dairy products, which she believes has been robbed of many essential vitamins and minerals through the pasteurization process.

The research of the institute began with the travels of its founder and dentist, Weston Price. He traveled to cultures untouched by modern nutrition and diet. To his surprise these populations enjoyed remarkably perfect teeth - with little/no decay despite going their whole lives without seeing a dentist. Absent were the white flour and sugar that have become such a staple in our modern diet. And high in their diet were animal fats and protein. These populations also enjoyed a long lifespan and had low incidents of cancer and other diseases.

It's been three years since Fallon's talk at school, and I finally cracked her book this weekend. My friend Angela put together a book group to discuss its principles, and I think I was finally ready to learn more. Without knowing it, I've been eating a traditional diet that is in line with the principles of the book.

So how did I become a closeted meat-eater?

It all started about a year ago when I discovered I had a sensitivity to gluten, a protein found in wheat. No more white or wheat flour. I felt so much better after cutting these out. At the same time I was losing weight at a rapid clip - and this was weight I was not looking to lose! So I decided to introduce more animal foods into my diet.

But fret not meatless readers, I still love me a good veggie. I only eat meat at high quality dining establishments (at least for now).

Anyone out there interested in cooking with more lard or duck fat? Or how about consuming some raw dairy products? Unfortunately, the later are not widely available commercially. Unless, you got a hookup.

A new day

Despite the frigid temperatures and large crowds, I decided to put aside my better judgment to take part in one of the proudest moments in our nation's history - the Inauguration of President Barack Obama.

Local restaurants and bars had enticing offers to watch the coverage indoors on their big screen televisions. Yet nothing would turn me away, not even the loss of feeling in my limbs, from being a part of the moment in Washington DC. And there were a million more just like me.

I'd like to thank my body for holding up, going many hours without a proper meal, even eating some foods I thought I'd never eat again. Like Obama said in his Inaguration speech, this was a time to put stale ideologies aside. I gave in to the corned beef sandwich - and am pleased to report things are great.

What Obama said to me that day nourished my being in a way that food never can. And as I listen to his speech again from my warmer confines, I can't help but get re-inspired. I feel the desire to serve. To put aside my inner skeptic, and share his infectious message of hope and possibility.

Favorite line of the speech: "We will extend a hand if you are willing to unclench your fist." Love it. Idealism is back, baby!

I've posted more photos from the weekend on flickr.

Celebrating '08, Looking to '09

I'm naturally a rather private person, but entering the blogosphere makes one change all that. So I thought it might be fun to share my resolutions for 2009. As well as some of my personal victories for 2008.

2008 Highlights

• January: My year started off with a bang when I was invited by my student client, Simone, to attend a taping of The Martha Stewart Show. Little did I know it would be the biggest prize giveaway day in the show's history! All guests (including myself) went home with a new Tempurpedic mattress and a three-night stay at Canyon Ranch in the Berkshires.
  

• April: My shared living days are over. I signed the lease to my first apartment in Park Slope, Brooklyn.

• April: I took my trip to Canyon Ranch. I got to experience what being extremely rich must feel like at this $800/night holistic spa - three days of hiking, massages, yoga classes, and spa cuisine. Among the guests, Ivana Trump and her newly-wed (now divorced) husband.
  

• May: I'm engaged! Condensed version: I popped the question in Prospect Park after some three bean salad. She said yes.
  

• June: Rice of Life is born. And with it my rekindled love and outlet for photography and writing.
  

• July: I celebrated my 30th birthday. Although I still get carded and have been even asked if I am old enough to vote. Compliment?
  

• August: Left the city for Costa Rica for two weeks. Island time and good food. What's not to love?
  

• November: Obama day - what a night! It feels nice, you know, to have a deep love of your country. No moment more special than watching my home state, Virginia, go blue. All those weekends knocking on doors for the campaign was worth it.
  

• December: My girlfriend goes domestic. In this month, I've received a homemade scarf, yoga bag, lavender eye pillow, apron, and pot holders. Being supportive pays dividends. Check out her blog The Novice Seamstress and see some of her work.
  

2009 Resolutions

• Get published: Whether it be a cookbook or articles, it would be nice to see my name in print. As well as get paid for my writing. [Or you could just click on my Google ads. :)]
  

• Pull off this wedding: Bring together six people with very different tastes and strong opinions to create a beautiful, spiritual event.
  

• More weekend vacations: Whether it be staying at a B&B in New England or taking a hiking trip out West, I want to get out of the city and see more of this country's natural beauty.
  

• Get out more: Meet new friends, business partners, clients.

So there you have it. My resolutions. But honestly, if 2009 turned out like 2008 it wouldn't be all that bad.

Do you have any resolutions? I'd love to hear them!

The art of timeshifting

I love the holidays and how everything seems to move slower this time of year. Work takes the backseat for friends, family, and yes even food. It's like we're 'off the clock' this week. Which can be a tremendous sense of relief for many of us time-starved individuals.

The current pace of life reminds me of a great book I read a couple years ago called Timeshifting by Stephan Rechschaffen. The author is the founder of the Omega Institute in Rhinebeck, New York, one of my favorite places to visit.

At Omega, you are immersed in a slower pace of life. You can't help but admire the beautiful natural surroundings, savor the food, and chat up other guests you don't even know. Every time I visit I come back rejuvenated and refreshed. And here too I feel 'off the clock.'

How great would it be if we could create this same feeling without having to go on a vacation?

We all have the ability to slow down and have more time to enjoy our life. This book showed me that. Our perception of whether we have enough time or not isn't determined solely by circumstances and responsibilities.

I really like the example in the book where the author would go around to different audiences and ask a simple question: "Do you feel like you have enough time in your life?"

When he'd ask this question in Corporate America, nobody would raise their hand. I guess that's what you'd expect. These guys are paid to keep busy. If not, a 'good' boss should just give them more work. Right?

So he'd also visit prisons and ask the same question to inmates who were literally "doing time." Yet again, he'd get the same response - no time. They'd complain about the chores they'd have as well as other responsibilities. They too were victims of time poverty.

But what about those folks that said yes? Certainly there must be some folks who felt like they had enough time. Well, in the rare instance someone would raise their hand, Rechtschaffen would ask "How is your life?" And more often than not, these people had a good life. They were very happy and had plenty of time.

Without knowing, most of us have unconsciously made the choice to 'keep busy' regardless of our responsibilities. Yet this example showed me we also have the power to shift from working against the clock to going with the flow of life.

When I feel the need to 'shift time' I often go for a walk in Prospect Park, sometimes leaving the watch at home. You'd be surprised how long twenty-some minutes can seem. And how healing.

Simple wisdom: The power of gratitude

I keep a rock in my pocket. But it is no ordinary one. It is my gratitude rock. And every time I touch it I state something I am grateful for.

Today for example:

"I am grateful that I can afford to live in New York City"
"I am grateful that my mom's flight to India left on time"
"I am grateful for the Park Slope Food Co-op where I buy my food"

I started this practice ever since watching the movie The Secret two years ago. And as corny as it may seem, it is a practice I find hard to live without.

I touch it multiple times a day, usually when I enter or leave my apartment. Upon contact, I pause and regardless of my mood, reflect on something I am grateful for in that moment. Which is not always easy to do. Especially when I am in hurry or frustrated with someone or something.

Yet, it is especially those times that make this practice worthwhile. It forces me to shift my perspective and realize that everything is actually okay.

Another way to think about gratitude is with the simple question of "What is new and good?" I like to ask this at the beginning of all my client sessions. Yet unlike most casual conversation, I really want to know!

The reason for that is so much of our progress is perceived. I see my clients do many amazing things, from starting to cook for themselves, to getting off prescription medication. Yet they'll continue to focus on the 10 lbs they still haven't lost, which results in more stress, and guess what, often leads to more weight gain.

Now if we instead choose to focus on the progress, e.g. the cooking and getting off the meds, we start to believe that yes, we can also lose the 10 lbs. And before you know it, it's done.

Seem too easy? Good, cause it should.

So let's get started. What are you grateful for?

Making time for the important stuff

I hate to admit it, but I am a procrastinator. Especially when it comes to the important stuff with my business - setting up classes or sitting down to write up a long term plan. Yet, I always seem to find time to catch up on email or check my friends status updates on Facebook.

I was reminded of this paradox the other day when reviewing the book Seven Habits of Highly Effective People. The author, Steven Covey, talks about how all of life's activities can be divided into four quadrants, based on importance and urgency.

In quadrant 1, we have the fire drills, deadline-driven projects that requires our immediate attention and response. In quadrant 2, we have the non-pressing activities that set us up for success in the long run. In quadrant 3, we have the urgent phone calls, emails, and text messages that demand a reply. In quadrant 4, we have the time wasting, unproductive stuff (i.e. basically, most of what we do on the Internet).

For many of us, most of our time is spent in quadrants 1, 3, and 4. As a result we keep busy, but fall short of what we truly want to accomplish. According to Covey, "Quadrant 2 is the heart of effective personal management. It deals with things like building relationships, long-range planning, preventative maintenance, preparation - all those things we need to do, but somehow seldom get around to doing, because they aren't urgent."

It is important to realize this phenomenon of putting off what we truly need isn't limited to the business world. It also extends to our health and well-being.

How long have you put off going to that yoga class? Cooking a nice meal for yourself? Or contacting that well-meaning holistic health counselor, whose blog you religiously read? [Sorry, I sensed an opportunity]

Old age doesn't have to be about senility and joint pain. It can be a continuation of a great life. All we need to do is make our health a priority now. That's what I do as a holistic health counselor. I help individuals develop healthy habits for life, empowering them to care for themselves naturally.

I'm gonna put more time and energy into quadrant 2. Want to join me?

*Photo courtesy of news46 on flickr

When life gives you free pizza

Dear friends, I too am human.

This weekend I went down to Pennsylvania to help my candidate become the next president of the United States. In the process I found myself eating foods that I would have normally avoided - pizza, cold cuts, bagels, etc. With few hours remaining until polls close, it can be hard to be a purist.

Usually these foods do not sit well with me, but when I was out there in front of others, cheered on by fellow supporters it didn't seem to matter. I was so stimulated and nourished by life, that food was secondary.

I've worked with many people who attempt to perfect their diet, only to find it was causing more stress than it was worth. Which is why most fad diets rarely work in the long-term. Sometimes it is important to go along with the flow of life, instead of fighting against it. Especially, when I would be back in my kitchen come Tuesday.

Anyway, I hope everyone makes it out to vote today! I will be watching the election results tonight with some friends in Brooklyn.

On the menu: Arugula. Lots of it.

Reminder: Go for a walk, it's nice outside

It is a beautiful day in New York - 63 degrees and sunny. The air is cool and crisp. Jacket optional. It is a day like this I long for - especially in the blazing month of August and the frigid days of February.

So why then do I find myself in front of the computer? Why am I not outside enjoying the weather?

The quick answer: "I've got stuff to do." You know classes to schedule, a blog to update, articles to write. Not to mention keeping up with my Facebook life and the presidential election. It is easy to get sucked in.

Around noon though, I noticed I was becoming overwhelmed with it all. So I decided to humor the thought of going outside. I left my home office and trusted my feet to take me where I needed to go. They headed east, towards Prospect Park.

When in the park I instantly felt a sense of calm. Instead of my to-do list, I began to focus on the colorful autumn leaves. I also noticed myself smiling and sharing a moment with other Brooklynites who were enjoying the weather. I had slowed down. I had become present.

In our busy lives it is easy to think we don't have time for a simple walk. Yet, I have always found these walks to 'add time.' They've given me much needed perspective, often hard to find when you are staring in front of a computer screen. They've also given me a strong grounding and faith that I am exactly where I need to be and that everything is okay.

Come to think of it, I can't think of another 30 or 40 minutes better spent.

Feeling spacey? Eat your root veggies

Have you ever desired more focus or concentration? Or the ability to be more decisive and hold your ground? Before you convince yourself you have ADD, try eating some more beets. I'm confident these root vegetables will bring you down to earth.

This ancient remedy has been on my mind ever since a session with my client Sejal yesterday. She was in high spirits, but had a hard time staying focused during our call. As a result we ended up jumping from one topic to the other. It was clear she needed some support to 'get grounded.'

In my view, Sejal was operating 'in her head.' A condition I see often with academics, like her, and those in highly analytical professions. While this mentality has helped her formulate brilliant thoughts, it has also left her disconnected from her physical body.

Beets can help us get back in touch with ourselves - a traditional remedy that like many things has gotten lost in this time of industrial agriculture and modern nutrition-speak.

And to understand you may have to suspend your beliefs on what is possible through food. When we consume a plant or an animal we take on more than just its nutrients and vitamins - we also take on its energy! This can mean the swiftness of a wild deer or, yes, the groundedness of a root vegetable.

I first learned of this theory from Steve Gagne, author of the book The Energetics of Food. In regards a plant, the energy comes from how it is grown. Beets and other root vegetables collect nutrients from the soil around it and grow downward. When we consume them we bring energy to the lower parts of our bodies - contributing to the sense of firm footing, and enhancing other bodily functions. (Yes, beets are also great for constipation!) Consequently, food that grows upwards, like fruit and sugar, bring energy to the head.

This simple theory might seem out of place in the world of genome mapping and genetically modified crops. Yet there is something about its simple straightforward nature that appeals to me. A sign that mother nature had a plan. Perhaps the question of what to eat, does not require a PhD after all!

I enjoy beets roasted in olive oil and on a simple bed of arugula with lemon juice. Find them at your local farmers market.

*Photo courtesy of huumbug on flickr

Say it ain't so: Quinoa prices up 30%

Okay I'll admit - I don't follow the same economic indicators as the pundits in Washington. The rising price of gas or the challenge in obtaining home financing doesn't phase me. Yet, I too felt a hit this week, in an unexpected place. The price of my dear quinoa was up 30% at my local co-op.

People are catching on to this protein rich, whole grain from South America. Last year was a record year with demand increasing by over 25%. And at the Park Slope Food Co-op, where I shop, quinoa is the top seller in its bulk bins.

While thrilling to see the public catching on to this nutritious food, I must admit my feelings are bittersweet. The price of quinoa now costs three times that of brown rice! And with my gluten-free diet, I tend to rely on this dear grain almost as much as our country depends on foreign oil.

Quinoa Stuffed Peppers

Armed with Google, I searched for explanations. I was led to the website of Andean Naturals, one of the large growers of quinoa. Apparently, 2008 was a tough year. A frost in November wiped out 40% of the annual product. Which only compounded the struggles farmers already had in keeping up with demand. It seems quinoa continues to be grown mostly by traditional methods, e.g. harvesting by hand, rotating with other crops, using no pesticides. While largely sustainable, these methods have made it challenging to increase production. As a result more farmers are giving way to modernization, using tractors and rotating crops less.

The Economist might cheer these moves, but I'm all for the status quo. I'd hate for farmers to change their entire method of production (I think they've been growing this way for 4000 years), just because this gringo wants his quinoa fix. What good is this nutritious food if it produces a less healthy planet?

My solution: Eat more rice. And pray for rain, lots of it.

Integrative Nutrition: The education that changed everything

I'm not one for nostalgia, but admit I felt some last night. I was at the Integrative Nutrition fall gathering in New York City. It was here that hundreds of sharply-dressed holistic health counselors came together, to reconnect, munch on carrot sticks, and introduce others to this world-class education.

You see it was at this school, three years ago, that my life changed. I came into the school a lost soul. I didn't know much about what I wanted to do with the education. All that I was certain about was I wanted to quit my job - a corporate marketing gig that was lucrative, but left me unfulfilled.

I had flown in from San Francisco months before enrolling to attend one of the school's orientation sessions. I heard about Integrative Nutrition from a friend and thought it was worth checking out. Little did I know I'd be signing up before the end of orientation. I had grown interested in natural foods and holistic health in the Bay Area, and there was something about the school that 'clicked' with me. And after a year of searching for my next act, I knew this would be it.

The signs were all there. I had met Dr Andrew Weil at a conference on holistic health in British Columbia months before the orientation. It was literally the first time in my life where I liked every single person in the room (good luck finding that in the corporate world). And guess who would be teaching at Integrative Nutrition? Yes, Andrew Weil himself, as well as Deepak Chopra, Paul Pitchford and a host of others I admired.

But perhaps the biggest draw for me, was the founder of the school, Joshua Rosenthal. To this day he remains one of the most inspiring people in my life - a visionary who 'gets it.'

I was reminded of this last night, when I stood listening to Joshua's remarks. He spoke about a recent visit to Bonobo's, a raw foods cafe in Midtown. It was there he was served by two individuals, one natively from Bosnia and the other Croatia - two countries that were recently engaged in a civil war. Thousands of miles from their homeland, these two were able to come together over warm coconut chai and raw nutmeat patties. And it was no coincidence. They believe the world would be far more peaceful if we ate differently - as modern factory farming and industrialized meat production have lead to aggressive behavior. It was remarks and stories like this that drew me to the school - beliefs that cannot be proven by science, but still need to be heard. I knew we were dealing with more than food here.

Joshua likes to say that Integrative Nutrition is not only a school, but also a movement. I've seen countless graduates go out and do amazing things with the education. Some have written books, others have created natural food products (like an agave-sweetned ketchup, flax crackers, or energy bars). Most though go out and become holistic health professionals or complement their existing health-related work. Regardless, everyone leaves with an amazing experience - either improving their own health or finding a new career that energizes them. Some lucky individuals manage to do both!

I could really go on singing the praises of this school. However, I must stop. (I think I've exceeded my 300-word blogging limit.) If you think you might be interested in learning more about Integrative Nutrition, I'd be happy to answer any and all questions. Either post a comment here or email me.

If you are interested in enrolling, Integrative Nutrition is offering a $500 scholarship. Just mention my name when you enroll.

Bad apple or prized find? The lure of the wormy apple.

These are not the kind of apples you fight for in the store or see pictured next to proud, grinning farmers. Yet, there was something about these bruised, neglected, harbingers of fall that captivated me.

They sat, dejected in a box labeled "take em or leave em" at my local CSA. Many I am sure, passed on the chance to acquire these ugly ducklings. Not me. I know how rare it can be to find an organically grown, New York state apple in these parts. Apparently, the climate here makes it tough for organic growing methods. Even my organic-loyalist the Park Slope Food Co-op, carries "minimally treated" ones.

I also should be clear - this was no charity case. I wanted to see what all the rage was about. I've been curious about wormy apples ever since Amy Hepworth, proudly bit into a wild untreated apple before a packed audience at the Park Slope Food Co-op last year. Amy, who supplies the minimally treated apples available for sale, declared her preference for the maggot-ridden ones, even going so far as identifying the pests she was consuming. Her statement got the attention of New York magazine which profiled her in its August issue, entitled "How Farmer Amy Hepworth Became a Cult Hero to Foodies."

Ever since, I've wondered if we were passing on the good stuff. I mean if the farmers and pests like them, shouldn't we? So I had to try them (the apples, not the pests - sorry, I am not as adventurous as Amy).

I took my knife and cut up an apple. And yes it was delicious! Sweet, crisp, juicy... all the important attributes I look for. Absent was the 'waxy' taste I find so common, and have come to accept.

As a CSA member, I am a stakeholder in my farm. Which means, like Amy Hepworth, I feel a special connection to all that grows from my farm - whether or not it is photogenic. I am sure I would have a different mindset if I shopped at Whole Foods. Fortunately, the good stuff comes to Brooklyn!

Sacha weds Mike, potluck style

We've heard of people going 'green,' but few live it like my friend Sacha. Her wedding was no different.

A self-proclaimed fan of No Impact Man and pusher of compost, Sacha Jones and her partner Mike Nies threw a 'bloody marvelous' wedding for 170-guests in the East Village on Sunday. The couple managed to stay true to their eco-principles, on an event that can easily force couples to give-in to convenience and comfort.

All invitations were sent out electronically (no paper), a 'no-gift' policy erected, and all guests were asked to bring a dish to share. The Ukranian Ballroom, the location of the reception, became perhaps the East Village's largest potluck dinner.

The couple urged guests to try their hands making a vegetarian dish using quinoa and rice. (Yes, Sacha is also a health counselor!) I chose to show up with my cornmeal crusted tempeh, a favorite of the newly minted husband and wife. Others brought pasta salads, roasted vegetables, and garlic-y greens. Fortunately, for the culinary-challenged, a Whole Foods Market was nearby. Others contributed beer and wine.

It was really remarkable to see the community come together. The wedding cake was gifted by Ayse, owner of polka dot cakes, and even made gluten free to accommodate the bride. Instead of a professional photographers, the couple relied on the shutter skills of their artist friends. And everyone donated plates and silverware to be used for the occasion.

Swati and I had a great time at the event and left inspired for our own wedding. It is always refreshing to see authenticity prevail in a time when its easy to give into the cookie-cutter-wedding-industry-establishment. I personally would be very grateful to have my life play out like this wedding - full of good food, love, and amazing people.

Simple Wisdom: Do just one thing

I got an email from my client Greg yesterday. He was frustrated that he hasn't been able to make time for some of the suggestions I had given him.

Greg is the president of his non-profit organization and a published, respected writer. When we started our sessions together, I asked him to come up with three short term and long term goals. He came back with SIX for each! It is a trend I often see in highly accomplished people, like Greg - they love pushing their limits. Unfortunately, it can sometimes be counter-productive.

Our first month together started off really strong. Greg began cooking breakfast for himself (making steel cut oatmeal), eating more greens (especially bok choy), and scheduling some much needed downtime.

Yet, eventually his life began to get in the way. He started traveling regularly for work. Eating what was available, and putting off his workout routine. He's now looking to get back on track.

My advice to him: Simplify. Do just one thing each day. It can be a relatively simple act - taking the stairs, visiting the juice bar instead of Starbucks, getting on the treadmill.

Many of us tend to focus on what is wrong (perhaps the weight that doesn't want to come off). Or what we don't want to do (like going to the gym). My suggestion: shift your focus on what you CAN and WANT to be doing right now. It can be very powerful.

For an added challenge, try doing one different thing each day. You'll see that over time these healthy habits will work into your DNA.

Probiotics: Bacteria you can cheer for

With my beach bag in tow, I left town this past weekend to escape the grind of Gotham. I was heading south to meet up with some friends for a fun weekend. Little did I know I would find myself craving something I never thought was possible - bacteria!

I can sense the quizzical looks forming.

No, but really, I was craving my probiotic supplement - the beneficial bacteria that help ward off infection, promote digestion, stave off yeast, and a whole slew of other health benefits. We are all born with a healthy amount of this beneficial bacteria in our gut, which serves as a natural defense system from the 'bad' bacteria we know and fear.

These little guys have saved me out in countless situations - they've kept me regular, gotten me over traveler's diarrhea, and enabled me to better digest dairy products.

Now they were again trying to restore balance in my body. Turns out the from the 'party foods' I was consuming are exactly the ones harmful bacteria feed on (i.e. sugar, refined carbohydrates, alcohol). My digestion was off and I was starting to feel as if I was catching a cold.


There are several foods that contain naturally occurring beneficial bacteria, however in far smaller doses than a probiotic. These foods include yogurt, miso, aged cheese, kefir, and fermented vegetables (kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles). Kombucha, a fermented beverage, rich in probiotics is all the rage at my local co-op. It was no coincidence that one of the first foods I ate when I returned home was yogurt with live acidophilus cultures. I instantly felt better.

I recommend probiotic supplements to most of my clients (Garden of Life Primal Defense Ultra is my favorite). With the prevalence of antibiotics in our culture, many of us are lacking these crucial microorganisms. However, we consume more than we even realize - antibiotics show up in commercially raised meat, even our drinking water!

I take one probiotic supplement every evening before I go to bed. And, oh yes, I am regular again!

From NYT: Yeah Food! Boo Diets.

It seems like people are starting to enjoy food again.

The New York Times reports some surprising trends that have been taking place in regards to food. More people are cooking from scratch. Fewer people are dieting. The number of farmers markets has doubled. Organic food sales are increasing.

There has also been a movement recently away from the low-fat and sugar-free foods that have traditionally been marketed as health foods. People are starting to get that it isn't all about calories. I mean, come on, who has really lost weight from drinking diet coke?

It seems like we are willing to engage about food differently. Now the question is, can we keep it up?

Getting back to breakfast

We are Americans. We like it quick. Cereal and milk. Toast and butter. Bagel and cream cheeese. Coffee and pastry.

I don't know about you, but I can understand why this meal is often skipped. Where's the passion? Where's the excitement? It seems to me what passes for breakfast food is the result of years of marketing in the American psyche. If we were to go back 100 years ago, before Kelloggs, General Mills, and Starbucks entered the realm of the American diet, I am sure the choices we made were far different.

When was the last time you prepared a breakfast you were very proud of yourself? Most people can remember a dinner, maybe even a lunch. But breakfast escapes most people. Yet it is arguably the most important meal of the day.

I think a solid meal in the morning is a bowl of steel cut oatmeal. While this may sound boring, I find inspiration from the types of toppings: shredded coconut, dried cranberries, raisins, crystallized ginger, dates, toasted pumpkin seeds, walnuts, flax seeds. My friend Sacha suggests heating up the water with a bag of chai tea. With the right combination, you'll find you don't even need to add any sugar! I find this approach much more satisfying than a bowl of Shredded Wheat.

I think it also helps to look overseas for inspiration. I've recently taken to a Japanese style breakfast. A simple saute of bok choy, carrots, scrambled eggs, and brown rice can go a long way. It is also a great way to use leftover rice from the day before! Sounds good? Check out the recipe below.