Revive Yourself

Sometimes in life you need to take a moment to step back and reevaluate and revive yourself.  Whether you are in a rut, feeling sluggish, down, consumed with daily routines, working too hard, or feeling stressed, it helps to stop, take a deep breath, and do something unexpected and fun. 

With crazy busy lives it is critical to plan/schedule some good fun.  Sure it’s fun playing with our kids, working (for those lucky people), relaxing, but it is also fun doing something out of the ordinary for just us. 

Last weekend, The Husband planned a perfect night away for us to see Coldplay in San Jose.  Seeing Coldplay in concert has been the only thing on my bucket list.  Please don’t ask me why.  After I was diagnosed with cancer, this has been the only thing I really, really wanted to do.  I don’t even really listen to their CDs, but I do love Chris Martin’s energy and what he brings to his music.  Pure talent.  Pure dedication.  Pure passion/joy/energy/FUN and a killer performer. 

This concert couldn’t have come at a better time.  I was able to forget about everything and just vibe out on the music.  It was what my soul needed to revive and I can’t thank my sweetie enough for crossing that off my list.  On the car ride back home, my next bucket list item popped into my head (another complete random out-of-no-where thought) a trip to Capri, France. 

Don’t really think I will be packing my bikini and sundress soon for that trip but…

I have heard that good things come to those that wait.

And waiting is what I have been doing for my revive.  As in revive, kombucha.

My friend Michael, who works at Whole Foods, gifted me a gorgeous bottle of this magical kombucha.  Truth be told, it has been sitting in my fridge for a few months.  I love kombucha so I don’t have the slightest clue why I haven’t drunk it until today.  I love the bottle and think it is almost too pretty to open but really, come on.  It’s getting a bit ridiculous that it has taken me this long to down it.  I think I just like the comfort that it is there for me when I need it. 

Just some facts about kombucha:

Kombucha the “Immortal Health Elixir” has been around for more than 2,000 years and has a rich history of preventing and fighting cancer, arthritis, and other degenerative diseases. 

It is made from tea and sugar fermented by a pancake-shaped yeast and bacteria culture.  Sounds delish right?  Trust me, it is!

It is a fizzy, fermented drink with kind of a tangy taste.

According to Livestrong, “Although human studies on kombucha are lacking, there is evidence for anti-cancer effects of acetic acid and vitamins.  W. Yu and colleagues at the University of Texas tested an acetic acid solution with vitamin E derivative on breast cancer cells and found it aided mitochondria, the energy-powerhouses in cells, to induce the death of cancer cells.  The study was published in the November 2010 issue of “Molecular Carcinogenesis.”  Another article, published in “The Journal of Nutrition” in February 2000, stated probiotic cultures have been shown to inhibit the growth of precancerous lesions and tumors in animal studies of colon cancer.  Probiotic cultures are friendly bacteria found in fermented foods, such as Komubcha.”

I have tried a few different brands of kombucha but revive is by far my favorite. 

1.  I dig the dope bottle.

2.  The taste is fresh, intoxicating and energizing.  It kind of taste like spiced cider.  I am thinking this is my new faux beer (it does contain traces amount of alcohol).

3.  It is based in Sonoma County so you are supporting local businesses and helping save the earth by doing so.

4.  The small (7 and growing) “Buch Crew” practice sustainable business and truly care about having the tiniest carbon footprint. 

Their mission: to work towards a more sustainable future.

Their goal: to lovingly create drinks that make your body feel good and that your mind and soul can feel good about buying. 

According to these folks at revive,

“There are hundreds of healthful properties naturally created from our loving fermentation process. With all that good stuff in it we believe that you’ll find that revive will energize you, detoxify you, reduce your appetite, increase your metabolism, aid in healthy digestion, boost your immune system and give you a greater feeling of well-being.” 

For a small sweet 16oz bottle, it is $3.99 with a one-time refundable $2 deposit

For a 64oz jug, it is $11.99 with a one-time refundable $5 deposit

Go to Whole Foods on Arden and get your revive, say "what up" to Michael, and when you are finished bring the bottle back in to exchange and get your deposit back.  Feel great that you are supporting a sustainable local company that cares about making a quality drink and making your body feel nourished.

Many more health benefits are listed here on the revive website.

Bottom line, there are many ways to revive yourself.  If you can’t plan a crazy impromptu trip or outing, reach for the next best thing, a delicious revive kombucha drink to energize, refresh, and tickle your soul!

For more healthy living tips and recipes, please subscribe to my blog on the top right hand corner.

Shop at www.livinthegreenboutique.com

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Cheers.

Who Says You Can't Have Your Cake and Eat It Too!

Call me crazy but I am not a fan of chocolate.  I think it is insanely overrated.  Unless it is from Ginger Elizabeth in Sacramento, or Woodhouse in St. Helena, then I can care less about it.  I think it is too sweet, fattening, and I feel like a beast after I eat it.  So you might be wondering why I am doing a post on cacao? 

But cacao ain’t chocolate.  It is a little different.  And therin lies the rub.  Cacao is the dried seeds of a South American evergreen tree.  It is derived from Theobroma Cacao beans which means, “Food of the Gods”.  It is used to make cocoa and chocolate.  

These little gems have a slightly bitter taste that vaguely resembles chocolate. 

Cacao nibs are made by removing the skin from the cacao seed and cracking it into small pieces.  It is raw and in its natural form, it's unbelievable for your health. 

According to the Livestrong website, “Raw cacao promotes the release of neurotransmitters, which promote a positive outlook and bodily rejuvenation, and release feel-good hormones.  Raw cacao raises levels of serotonin, a neurotransmitter, and acts as an anti-depressant that can help reduce symptoms of PMS.  It also stimulates the secretion of endorphins, which produce a pleasurable sensation, and phenylethylamine which is a mild mood booster.  It also releases anandamide which promotes elation and helps us feel good longer.” 

True that!!   A form of chocolate that promotes a positive outlook, releases happy thoughts, eases PMS symptoms, creates pleasurable sensations, and makes us feel good longer.  Do you need any more reasons to put this in your belly? 

If I haven’t sold you already, here are just a few more of fantastic benefits of the almighty NIB:

• Promotes cardiovascular health
• Helps improve circulation, regular heartbeat and blood pressure
• Helps the body repair itself and resist free-radical toxins
• Delivers one of the biggest kicks of antioxidants
• Provides a rich source of manganese that helps oxygenate the blood
• Contains a ton of sulfur, which builds strong hair and nails and promotes glowing skin

Although I would be happy eating these C-nibs all day, I try to limit them to my smoothies.  My thought is why not load up on all of these endorphins in the morning? 

Anne’s “Morning Delight” Smoothie

1 frozen banana

1 handful of Kale or Spinach (optional but you better put it in!)

1 scoop of Amazing Grass Chocolate Amazing Meal (optional)

1 tablespoon of peanut butter

1 tablespoon of raw cacao nibs

1.5 cups of unsweetened almond milk (or any milk/milk sub you like) or until you are happy with the consistency

Truth be told, I actually had this delightful smoothie this morning.  Let me tell you, I felt smiley, happy and relaxed yet energized.  In a word -- satisfied.  Plus, my workout couldn’t have been better.  Yes, this must become a regular thing. 

Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!

For more healthy living tips and recipes, please subscribe to my blog on the top right hand corner.

Shop at www.livinthegreenboutique.com

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Adore: Morris Terry

When I began to switch up my lifestyle, I went a bit mad thinking of all of the chemicals and toxins that found to be all around me. The more I thought about it, the more I wanted to make little changes where I could. I often thought about the clothing I wear. What is it made of? What chemicals were inside the dye and the cloth? What was in my detergent, etc.?

Your clothes and you share an intimate relationship. I mean they are caressing your skin all day long and rubbing off who knows what all over your epidermis?

Since I am at the gym on the daily, I spend the majority of my day in my gym clothes. I don’t do this to show off, but because I am too busy/lazy to change. Spending most of the day in workout gear doesn't bother me. I am comfy and I can accomplish almost any task in my gym gear (conference calls, chauffeuring this kids to and from wherever, grocery store trips and park time (where its okay to roll in the grass and get dirty playing with my sweet kiddos).

Since my wardrobe mostly consist of my workout clothes, I try to be sure they are comfortable, stylish, and in line with my philosophy. Work out gear that uses sustainable material and is eco friendly, that is what I had my eye on.

You would think this would be hard to find, but not so. Morris Terry, a wonderful local company, is looking out for us as well as doing a solid and giving back to foster youth.

I had no idea we had the privilege of having such a fabulous local company. They make beautiful, sexy, and comfortable yoga & workout gear using sustainable materials. And when I say comfy, I am not lying. Think soft, cloud like textures that might lure you to sleep if you aren't working up a sweat doing down dog.

Morris Terry promotes taking care of one's body through exercise, and healthy eating and living practices in living a life of luxury, while still being mindful of the environment. Morris Terry is also committed to supporting communities in need whenever possible.

In 2011 Morris Terry partnered with HELPS Foster Agency as part of their dedication to give back to their communities, specifically foster youth. They will donate 100% of the proceeds from their 2011 spring gym bag to HELPS foster agency. Each season at least one design is made to benefit foster youth in need.

How amazing is that?!?!

I have the MTX Gym Bag.  I love it and it is a steal at $40.  This bag holds everything.  I was surprised how light, durable and large it was.  It is perfect for the gym, yoga studio, or Tball games.  It has replaced my purse on many days and I can't tell you how many people compliment me on it. 

I adore this bag but am really stoked that 100% of the proceeds goes to the HELPS agency noted above, which supports young underprivileged children so that they can participate in sports, art programs, and theater programs. It is so great that Morris Terry recognizes the need for all children to have creative outlets outside the home and the classroom.

There clothing and gym bag have been featured in People, Teen Vogue, People Style, Self, and countless other publications.

So check them out. You can help yourself reduce the toxins and chemicals in your life and may help out a few kids in the process.

Morris Terry:  www.morristerry.com 

Give them some love on FB while you are at it!

My Baby, My E

Me and The Husband at the birthplace of E's Grand Papou in Greece

I'm not too sappy of a homegirl.  But when it comes to E, I kinda 'em.  Wednesday was his 5th birthday.  My first, my baby boy, was born 5 years ago.  I look back and remember how stressed, scared, terrified, frantic, and ecstatic I was. So many opposing emotions were tearing at me.  So much uncertainty. 

He was born in stress...no joke.  I would like to think he was born in a soothing natural environment, I mean Dave Matthews was playin'.  I would like to say that this gorgeous picture from our honeymoon in paradise (Bristish Virgin Islands) was my visual focal point...

Not so.  For my first baby, I thought it would go down a little differently.  Looking back it wasn't too drastic at all but during, I was a nervous wreck.  

I went in for a prenatal check up and was diagnosed with preeclampsia.  The Husband was at work and I had to drive myself to the hospital. 

I checked myself in.  I waited for The Husband.  I was given scary news by my OB about how if we didn't get my blood pressure under control then I would need some scary drug that might make my baby
"unresponsive at birth". 

REALLY?!?!  Well, with that news of course my blood pressure would go down and I would relax...um no.  About that time, I opted for an epidural.  I am not one to advocate drugs and I wasn't happy about the decision, but I was happy that it made me relax and got my blood pressure under control... and that I didn't have an "unresponsive baby at birth".  So in between that scary news and my Dr. telling me she was going home to feed her dogs (she later almost missed my delivery!!) I was a little freaked out.    

Oh...did I mention he was sunny side up.  Yea, and the Dr. said she couldn't do anything about it but thank god, I had the best nurse in the world, who was able to turn the baby and make me at ease.  If it wasn't for her, I would have been a hopeless mess.

All this time, I was quietly frightened, but my baby was coming, and I would soon meet him.  When I did,  it was the most beautiful experience in my life.  My first born; born slightly blue, scrapped, screaming, and perfect.  Second he was in my arms, on my skin, I knew I would never let him go. 

This sweet baby is 5.  He is gorgeous and has the kindest heart.  My Casanova.  He is my love.  He is the one who gets sad when I get sad, or laughs when I laugh.  He is my heart.  My walking, laughing, spirited heart. 

He is one of the three main reasons why I am trying to live a healthier life.  He is the reason why I am making these changes to a greener, less-toxic lifestyle.  

I am a mother, a protector, and a survivor.  I will guard my little loves with everything I have.  Forever.  

 

 I couldn't be luckier.   

Ohhh....Holy Green Mary

Truth. 

I was scared about this post.  The idea popped into my head and I loved it....then thought about it more, and nearly vomited. 

I'm so happy I experimented and went with my gut.

After all the nasty green beer attempts and other attempts and turning drinks green with dreaded food coloring, I wanted to try something else.  Something that was naturally green, healthy, and a bit naughty. 

What better time to experiment and play around than St. Patrick's Day.  I know many people that like to start there a.m. with a drink on this celebratory day (no judgment) and although I am mostly Greek, I'm also Irish so I best be representing my roots. 

Low and behold.  My Green Mary.  What a beauty and not too different than my regular drink of choice; green juice...with the added companion, Vodka!   

Bloody Marys.  Perfect hangover drink.  Perfect morning drink.  A meal in a glass.  You have your celery, tomatoes, olives, salt and vodka.  What's not too love- other than the red hue.

This mighty fine, green fighting machine is...get this, delicious AND healthy.  I was apprehensive that I couldn't pull it all together and make my favorite bloody drink green, I almost lost hope.

Thanks to Google and adapting a Green Bloody Mary recipe from Food Republic, I came up with a delicious drink to start your St. Patty's morn. 

My Holy Green Mary

EQUAL PARTS

yellow tomatoes, chopped

tomatillos, husks removed

cucumber, peeled and chopped

green apple, peeled and chopped

*spinach-handful

Cocktail

1 1/2 ounces vodka

1/2 ounce fresh lime juice

3-4 dashes green jalapeno Tabasco

1/2 teaspoon white horseradish

1/4 teaspoon celery seed

1 splash olive juice

Directions:

1. Blend the tomatoes, tomatillos, cucumber, spinach, and apple until smooth
2. In a cocktail shaker, combine the mixture with the rest of the ingredients and shake until chilled
3. Pour into a glass and garnish to your hearts desire

The key is to make sure it is extra chilled. 

You have to make this.  Sooo good and truth be told, I am very proud of myself.  Now go make yourself one and maybe, just maybe, you will find a wee Leprechaun who will tell you were your pot of gold is after a few :)

For more healthy living tips and recipes, please subscribe to my blog on the top right hand corner.

Shop at www.livinthegreenboutique.com 

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Bottoms Up.