How to Make Edgewater's Cauliflower Quinoa Cakes

It’s not a secret that I’m slightly obsessed with the cauliflower quinoa cakes at the Edgewater Beach Hotel.

Lucky for all of you, the Chef and team at the Edgewater Beach Hotel gave me the exact recipe!

Cauliflower Quinoa Cakes

Makes 6 cakes

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of over cooked red quinoa

• 1/2 head cauliflower

• 1 cup goats feta

• 1 lemon

• 6 green onions

Directions:

1. Place quinoa in salted cold water and brig to a boil, simmer until soft

2. Remove stem from the cauliflower and process in food processor

3. Blanch cauliflower in salted boiling water, cool cauliflower after

4. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl

5. Form into cakes using stainless steel mold

6. Cook on medium heat until crispy on both sides and warm throughout

7. Garnish with grilled lemon and green onion

Try these at home and let me know your thoughts!

Delicious Raw Lean Reset Review

If you know me personally, you know I LOVE a good detox! Honestly, nothing makes me feel better than cleansing my body inside and out. I recently had the pleasure of testing out the Delicious Raw Lean Reset. I chose to complete the 3 day option, which was a mix of fresh pressed juices, kale slaw and spinach salads. (The Lean Reset also comes in a 2 day option.)

I’ve done several detoxes and cleanses in the past and I am well aware of the easing in and easing out process. If you are unfamiliar with how to begin a detox, what to expect, or how to ease out of a detox, check out my book, Revitalize & Renew: 7 Days to a Healthier You!

I absolutely loved this detox! The juices were amazing, the kale slaw around lunch time was very satisfying, and the spinach salad at night was huge! I wasn’t sure I would be able to finish all the food and juice in one day. The first day was the toughest, mainly due to the lack of caffeine, and the adjustment to mostly liquid nutrients. By the second day I was vibrant, energized and ready for more! By the end of the reset I noticed clearer skin, more energy, and less bloating… my body felt amazing.

I am already looking forward to my next Lean Rest … who’s with me?

Dirty Dozen 2019

Every year, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) comes out with a list of the dirtiest fruits and vegetables (dirty dozen). These are the fruits and vegetables that are the most contaminated with pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers and other harmful toxins. The EWG also releases a list of the clean fifteen each year, which are the cleanest fruits and vegetables. It is recommended that you buy the dirty dozen organic whenever possible, the clean fifteen may be purchased conventional.

Dirty Dozen

1. Strawberries

2. Spinach

3. Kale

4. Nectarines

5. Apples

6. Grapes

7. Peaches

8. Cherries

9. Pears

10. Tomatoes

11. Celery

12. Potatoes

Clean Fifteen

1. Avocados

2. Sweet Corn

3. Pineapples

4. Sweet Peas Frozen

5. Onions

6. Papayas

7. Eggplants

8. Asparagus

9. Kiwis

10. Cabbage

11. Cauliflower

12. Cantaloupe

13. Broccoli

14. Mushrooms

15. Honeydew Melon

Healthy Happy Hour

Join Jennifer Khosla of Lean and Green Body® for a healthy happy hour!

Edgewater Beach Hotel

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of being guests of the Edgewater Beach Hotel for a wellness weekend. The Edgewater Beach Hotel is a quaint hotel located in Naples Florida directly on the gulf, and only has 125 rooms making it very private.

Honestly this was one of the most luxurious trips we had taken in a year! Best part - it was only a 5 minute drive from our house, a relaxing stay-cation, no need to fly anywhere or deal with traffic… just unplug and relax!

From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by a valet and our luggage was delivered right to our room. After we checked in, we were handed a cold glass of champagne and given a brief tour of the hotel. From the hotel lobby, you look straight into the main restaurant, which has an open concept, and out over the pools and the gulf of Mexico! Before we even made it to our room, I knew I was going to love this place.

The Edgewater Beach Hotel is the only all-suite hotel in Naples, Florida. Our room was stunning! We had a wrap around patio, with a view of the pools and the beach. Each room has a kitchen, dining area, living room, and full bedroom set up making this the ideal spot for families and week long stays.

After settling in we decided to check out the pools…yes there are two! Between the pools, there is a beach bar where you can order food and drinks for the pool area or the beach. At the end of the pool just before the sand begins there is a fire pit, both my husband and I looked at each other knowing we would venture down here later in the day. The Edgewater Beach Hotel has an expansive beach area, with options for lounge chairs, day beds, and even a full VIP set up.

One of our favorite parts of the hotel was how private it was, with only 125 rooms it really limits how many guests they have each day.

We enjoyed our first dinner at Coast, the main restaurant at the Edgewater Beach Hotel. The cocktails were unique and the staff was well versed on the wine list. I had the scallops and my husband had the grouper, the presentation was beautiful. The Chef came out to check on us and introduce himself. I was comforted knowing that the staff and the chef were very aware of my food allergies, and adjusted each of my dishes accordingly. During dinner, we watched the sunset over the pools, feeling the vacation vibes begin to set in.

The next morning the hotel had arranged bicycles for us to ride into Old Naples, were we enjoyed local coffee. The bike ride through Old Naples was beautiful, and offered us a fresh and new perspective to our town. After the ride, we picked up our beach brunch picnic basket and went down to the beach. To our surprise and delight the Edgewater Beach Hotel set up a VIP beach set up for us. (When staying at the Edgewater the VIP beach set up is a must!) We leisurely enjoyed our brunch while watching dolphins play.This was one of my favorite parts of the entire weekend. After breakfast we lounged beachside for hours, truly understanding the meaning of a wellness weekend. We were able to unplug, unwind, and relax! (much needed for two ambitious professionals) We attempted to paddle board after lunch, however due to the waves we did not have much luck … next time!

After the most relaxing day beachside, we freshened up for dinner at Coast. We tasted a variety of appetizers, entrees and desserts each better than the last. The food (all gluten free and diary free for me) was surprisingly amazing! I am often disappointed when dining out because the gluten free and diary free options are so limited and often tasteless … not here. The scallops were my favorite.

Saturday we participated in the Paradise Wellness Weekend, at the Edgewater Beach Hotel. We started our morning with beach yoga, two of my favorite things, and then enjoyed a mind and body workshop with the Spread Happy duo followed by a cooking demo from the Chef. We learned how simple the green smoothie and cauliflower quinoa cakes are to make - blog post with the full recipe coming soon!

I honestly did not know much about the Edgewater Beach Hotel prior to my stay, but I can say I was blown away. This high end luxury hotel is a wellness destination and one of my favorite spots to date. I loved how private the hotel was, how many activities and fitness options they offered, but my favorite was the wellness. As a health and wellness professional, I provide wellness to my clients daily, but sometimes forget to put myself at the top of my to-do list. This weekend allowed me time to restore and rejuvenate myself.

Another one of my favorite parts about the hotel was their Be Well menu in their Coast restaurant. Edgewater Beach Hotel became a Blue Zones approved partner in 2018 and since then added several Be Well (and Blue Zone approved) items to their menu.

Edgewater Beach Hotel has become one of the top wellness resorts in Southwest Florida with the infusion of the Be Well menu, a high end gym, aromatherapy towelettes, and weekly yoga classes. Staying at the hotel and don’t want to miss your workouts - no problem, the Edgewater can have a personal trainer or yoga instructor available to you during your stay.

Everyone at the Edgewater Beach Hotel was exceptional and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was everything we wanted. There were a few team members who stood out that we would like to thank for making our trip so wonderful. Louise, Wendy and Herry were our favorite servers and made every meal special. Special thank you to Laura, McKenzie, Dan and Alice.

This is a sponsored post, but all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tuna Avocado Endive Cups

This has to be one of my simplest - and tastiest - recipes to date!

I love eating simple, real food, and creating recipes that fit my busy life.

I grew up loving tuna sandwiches, and wanted to recreate the recipe with a healthy spin.

I posted a picture of this dish weeks ago and got dozens of requests for the recipe, so here it is!!

Hope you love it!

Ingredients

• Endive

• 1 can albacore tuna (in water)

• Avocado Mayo (I love Primal Kitchen)

• 1 ripe avocado

• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. Wash and separate endive leaves

2. Open tuna can, drain all the water

3. Wash avocado, scoop out the inside of the avocado and place in a bowl

4. Add tuna to the avocado, mix in 1 tsp of avocado mayo - season with salt & pepper to taste

5. Add mixture to the inside of endive cups

6. Enjoy!!

Partner Core Workout

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, and it’s the perfect time to grab your partner or your bestie for a serious core workout!

Working out with a partner is much more fun!

You encourage and motivate one another, you sweat together, and hold each other accountable for showing up.

Here is my favorite partner core workout!

Seated Core Rotations

Sit back to back with your partner (spine long, core engaged) - pass a weighted ball back and forth to each other (making sure the ball goes around the full 360 degrees) - pass the ball 10 times each direction.

Partner Crunches

Laying supine, hook your ankles with your partner.

With knees bent, extend arms overhead. One partner will start with a ball in their hands - both partners will sit up, pass the ball, and lower back down.

Continue moving this way, crunching all the way up and passing the ball, then lowering all the way back down.

Pass the ball 20 times.

Core Ladder Drills

Come into a high plank with both hands inside the ladder, facing your partner.

High five your partner (right hand to right hand, then left hand to left hand) then walk laterally to the next box and repeat.

Walk the entire distance of the ladder and back.

Option to add a theraband around the legs for additional resistance for the legs (working the abductors).

Partner Planks

Come into a plank position on your forearms facing your partner.

Both partners will bring right arm up and gently touch partners right forearm, hold for a count of 10, then bring arms come back down. Switch to left side, hold for a count of 10 then lower and switch.

Repeat 2-3 times.

First Annual Paradise Coast Wellness Weekend

You have heard the news that Naples, FL is the healthiest and happiest city in the United States; but did you know that it is quickly becoming the Wellness Capital of the United States?

Incredible! Although, it’s not hard to believe, seeing how it is sunny everyday and the community is so healthy and active.

The first annual Paradise Coast Wellness weekend was held January 19th, with more than 30 wellness themed events and classes all over Southwest Florida! This will be an annual event every January to promote wellness in Southwest Florida and highlight a few wellness events and classes that set us apart from the rest.

Biking, kayaking, beach yoga, meditation, swamp walks, 5K run/walk, cooking demonstrations, wellness events and seminars are just a few of the events that were hosted during the first annual Paradise Coast Wellness weekend. Many local studios, well-preneuers, and hotels participated in the events, allowing something for everyone!

The Edgewater Beach Hotel, JW Marriott Marco Island, LaPlaya Beach Resort, Naples Grande, Naples Bay Resort, The Ritz Carlton and the Naples Staybridge Suites are the hotels that participated in the wellness weekend, offering something unique to their guests.

Wellness events started as early as 7am with the Pan-Florida Challenge Training Ride where Trek Bicycle Store educated the community about pace line training and rider etiquette, before taking riders on a 30+ mile ride.

The JW Marriott Marco Island celebrated with 12 hours of wellness, 7am - 7pm, with events such as yoga, meditation, cooking classes and other wellness themed activities.

LaPlaya’s “Fit and Trim” team offered free bike rentals, aromatherapy demonstrations, and infused water to guests and residents.

I was fortunate enough to be a guest of the Edgewater Beach Hotel for the first annual Paradise Coast Wellness weekend. The Edgewater Beach Hotel had events lined up all weekend, including a 4 day ‘Shift Happens’ retreat with Spread Happy Now, beach yoga, cooking demonstrations, and bike rentals. The hotel became a Blue Zones approved partner in 2018 and has since added in some incredibly tasty and healthy options to their menu!

I started my wellness weekend Friday morning at the Edgewater Beach Hotel with bike rentals for my husband and I. We were able to bike through Old Naples and stop for coffee at a cute local coffee shop (s/o Bad Ass Coffee) then we headed back to the hotel for a spa like day (more on that coming in a future blog post)!

Saturday morning, our day started with beach yoga, Nico from Practice Yoga, taught the class to more than a dozen yogis. The view was breathtaking, the sound of the waves was meditative, and the feel of the warm sun on my skin was energizing. I would love to start everyday with beach yoga. There is definitely a time and a place for studio yoga, but beach yoga is unlike anything else. The connection to your surroundings and nature, everything else just fades and peace and calm just takes over. You can’t explain it, you need to experience it for yourself.

After yoga, we were treated to cucumber mint infused water to rehydrate before a cooking demonstration later in the day. In between events, my husband and I enjoyed time by the pool, where we were able to unplug and relax.

In the afternoon, we were treated to a cooking demonstration from the Edgewater Beach Hotel Chef. He demonstrated how to create their signature cauliflower quinoa cakes and the green smoothie… both are Lean and Green Body® approved items! The cauliflower quinoa cakes were a crowd favorite, so much flavor and so few ingredients.

I cannot wait to see what Southwest Florida has in store for the second annual wellness weekend!

(Look for my next blog post about my stay at the Edgewater Beach Hotel.)

Southwest Florida is known for the sunshine, warm temperatures, beautiful beaches and now for it’s Wellness!

Be Well!

Candida

Candida has become a popular topic in today’s wellness groups. But what is it really? How do we get it … and most importantly how do we get rid of it??

Candida is a fungal infection that occurs when the healthy bacteria levels in the body are disrupted. This can occur from a variety of factors leading to an imbalance of healthy bacteria and bad bacteria in the gut.

A few factors that can lead to Candida overgrowth …

• high refined carbohydrate diet

• high sugar diet

• antibiotics

• high alcohol consumption

• weakened immune system

• oral birth control

• diabetes

• high stress levels

Candida symptoms can often go unrecognized initially because they look similar to many other conditions.

A few signs that you may have candida …

• recurring urinary tract infections

• fatigue

• digestive issues

• sinus infections

• fungal infections on skin and nails

• joint pain

Work with your doctor to determine if you have candida.

So, you have candida … how do you get rid of it??

First, no sugar! Sugar will feed the candida and make the infection worse.

Eliminate all refined sugars, carbohydrates and dairy products from your diet. These foods will encourage candida and bad bacteria in your gut to grow. I would suggest eliminating these from your diet permanently (or at least 80% of the time), but that is up to you!

If you have a suppressed immune system those foods will continue to promote the infection in your body.

There are several foods that have been proven to increase good bacteria growth in your gut, and begin to eliminate the growth of candida.

• Probiotics

• Garlic

• Coconut Oil

• Aloe Vera

• Curcumin

• Kombucha

• Pomegranate

Still have questions about candida? Leave your question below or reach out to our holistic nutrition specialist at jennifer@leanandgreenbody.com

New year, new me?

Just because we are starting a new year, it doesn’t mean you have to commit to a dozen resolutions hoping to change who you are.

What’s wrong with who you were in December 2018?

Nothing.

Perhaps, you want to make a few improvements or enhancements to your life - that’s great!

But please do not be swayed by all the marketing schemes trying to target you to change your life or who you are today!

I encourage you to instead of setting New Year’s resolutions - instead of setting goals - think about the person you want to become in 2019.

Not just physical changes.

Who do you want to become? How do you want to enhance who you already are?

I would encourage you to pick a word - just one - that would embody who you want to become this year.

You can be anything….

HAPPINESS

LOVE

ATHLETIC

PEACE

JOY

HEALTHY

SUCCESS

Your word is unique to you, and your particular goals and mindset for 2019.

I encourage you to use this word, or mantra, daily. Write it on your bathroom mirror if necessary, and embody this word.

What does this word mean to you?

After having much professional success in 2018, my word for 2019 is JOY.

I want to ‘work smarter, not harder’ and enjoy everything I have created. This goes for Lean and Green Body®, myself personally, and my family. I want 2019 to be all about JOY for me, my staff and most importantly my family.

Life is too short, not to enjoy.

What is your word … and why? Comment below!

I’d love to see what you are up to this year.

(My incredible mindfulness coach Ciara gave me this idea)

The Local

My husband and I recently had the pleasure of being guests at The Local here in Naples.

The restaurant is cozy, intimate, and very inviting. The staff, owner and Chef Jeff Mitchell went out of their way to ensure that we had a wonderful experience.

The mission at The Local is to produce high quality meals by sourcing all their food products from “local ranchers, farmers, sea mongers and artisans with integrity, favor and soul.” YES! This is definitely a mission I can stand behind. This means that the menu changes according to the produce and products that were delivered.

As a small business owner, I love supporting other local small businesses. And as a gluten free, dairy free, nutritionist, I am always on the look out for the best (allergen friendly) places to dine out … and I can tell you this is a new favorite! The Local has so many gluten free, vegan and vegetarian options available. The staff and Chef Jeff are also very accommodating and aware of food allergies, and will help to advise you on which choices would be best (ie: no cross contamination).

Let’s talk about the meal … to date our absolute favorite meal in Florida …

My husband and I started with the house-made ricotta cheese caprese salad (homemade ricotta!!) and the vegan Korean lettuce cups. Theses were definitely two of our favorite items of the evenings, and a must for our next visit!

We then shared the shrimp, mango and avocado salad … my three favorite things! Clearly this was a winner, and a super healthy option! This salad is packed with protein, healthy fats, and greens!!

Next we shared the shrimp zucchini pasta with a coconut cream sauce, pretty much made my gluten free dairy free dreams come true! The spices and the shrimp were delicious. The amount of flavor developed in this dish was so delectable, that it kept me going back for more.

My husband tried the mushroom lovers pizza (gluten free crusts are available) … this is the most popular pizza at The Local, and my husband loved it! His favorite part was the house-made sourdough crust.

I finished with the keto steak, with kale and roasted cauliflower as my sides. I rarely eat red meat, my body simply does not crave meat, but I have to say this steak was the best I have ever had! (not paid to say that, it honestly was the best!!)

What I love most about this restaurant is that they try to get everything from local and organic sources. They can actually tell you where your steak came from and where the kale was grown. I’m obsessed!!

To finish off our dinner, we shared a gluten free carrot cake cupcake!! Dying, it was so rich … my husband could not believe it was gluten free.

Yes, this is a sponsored post but all opinions are my own (with my husband’s help, he’s my number 1 taste tester!) and I would never advocate for a business that I did not fully support.

This restaurant experience was amazing!!

The Local is a must for your next date night, girls lunch out, or even happy hour!

Happy New Year!

What are going to create this year?

Comment below! Can’t wait to see what you are up to!

Year in Review

Wow. What an incredible year it has been!

Honestly, 2018 has been the biggest year professionally of my life.

When I look back at this past year, I am amazed by all of my accomplishments and everything I have built for Lean and Green Body®.

I am happy to say that this is only the beginning of Lean and Green Body® … we are just getting started!

Since August 2018, I have had the privilege of being featured in the following publications: Naples Daily News (online video and front page of the paper), Gulfshore Life Magazine, Naples Herald, and Naples Illustrated (coming January 2019).

Here are a few of the big points and events of 2018 …

January - Grand opening of 5th Ave Studio

January - I published my first book- Revitalize and Renew

January - First event for Revitalize and Renew at Revival Yoga

February - Revitalize & Renew book launch

February - Revitalize & Renew book launch party

April - Lean and Green Body® at an Ebella event with Dr. Perlmuter

July - Made the decision to close 5th Ave Studio … only to go BIGGER!!

August - Started a partnership with Momentum Brewery for monthly yoga classes

September - I won Top 40 under 40 for all of Southwest Florida!!

October - Hosted a Yoga and Wellness event for the David Lawrence Center

October - Started teaching weekly yoga classes at my own public studio space … for only $10/class … making yoga more accessible to everyone

October - Became a Certified Fitness Nutritionist through ISSA … love continuing my education and staying current on new wellness ideas for my clients.

November - Lean and Green Body® became an approved Blue Zones Project partner

December - I was asked to sit on the board of the Red Cross.

December - MALK Organics asked me to become a national partner, and work with them as a nutritionist. I am so excited for this partnership, because together we will be able to educate the public on a national level.

December - Mindful Movement Studio powered by Lean and Green Body® … pre-sale started December 17 and beta launch is January 1!

This year has been incredible! Through Lean and Green Body®, I have been able to host over 20+ events for our Southwest Florida community.

Thank you to all of you, who have supported me through this momentous year of growth.

In 2019 Lean and Green Body® will officially be a national brand!! I am so excited and ready for this expansion, and to educate the greater community on the importance of wellness and a healthy lifestyle.

Happy New Year!!

Love and Light,

Flourless Peanut Butter Cookies

Ingredients

• 2 cups of creamy organic peanut butter or almond butter

• 2 cups organic coconut sugar

• 2 cage free eggs

• 1 bag of dark chocolate kisses

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Mix all ingredients together, and create 1 inch cookie dough balls from ingredients

3. Place the cookie dough on a greased cookie sheet

4. Bake cookies for 8 minutes

5. Take cookies out and add dark chocolate kisses to each cookie, the trick is to twist the chocolate as you press it into the cookie

6. Place back in the oven for an additional minute

7. Take out of the oven and place on a cooling rack.

8. Enjoy!

Holiday Cocktail Guide

Happy Holidays!!!

The holiday vibe is in full swing! Office parties, family parties, and holiday get-togethers with friends … there seems to be a never ending reason to celebrate this time of year (and I love it!).

The trick to navigating these cocktail parties is to choose wisely.

Many of the themed holiday drinks are packed with sugar and will most definitely give you a terrible hangover the next day.

Here are two of my favorite holiday cocktails … and a few tips to prevent the holiday hangover.

Vodka Soda

• 2 oz Tito’s Vodka (or vodka of your choice)

• 4 oz + of soda water

• Squeeze 1/2 lemon or lime

• Option to add a splash of pure cranberry juice for the holidays!

This cocktail contains 100 calories or less!

French Martini

• 2 oz Tito’s Vodka (or vodka of your choice)

• 1/2 oz raspberry liqueur

• 1 oz pineapple juice

• Shake ingredients together with ice. Strain into cold martini glass, and garnish with fresh raspberries.

Less than 200 calories … and less than 4 grams of sugar!

To prevent the holiday hangover, make sure that you are hydrated BEFORE you go out.

When you are out remember to drink 8 oz of water (1 cup) in between each cocktail.

Cocktails are very dehydrating and this will keep your body hydrated, and keep you going.

Eat before you drink, choose a healthy, balanced meal (protein, fat & fiber) before going out. This will help you to make better choices later in the evening.
Final tip … enjoy! The holidays come around once a year, enjoy them … in moderation.

* Always drink responsibly, and never drink and drive.

Christmas Gift Guide

The holidays are my favorite time of year!

I absolute love buying gifts for family and friends. Here are a few of my top gift ideas for the Lean & Green individual in your life!

(1) Revitalize & Renew : 7 Days to a Healthier You

$14.95

My first book was published earlier this year! This is the perfect guide for newbies and experienced detoxers. This book will educate you on the importance of detoxing, how to ease in and ease out of a detox and will guide you step by step every day! Choose to detox for all 7 days, or start with just 1… you choose what works for your lifestyle today.

(2) Manduka Pro Lite Mat

$82

Perfect for the yogi in your life! These mats are made of recycled material, and are guaranteed not to wear out… or the company will replace it!

I have had my manduka mat for 8 years, with of tons of use and it is still my favorite mat to date.

(3) Zella Live In High Waisted Legging (Nordstrom)

$54

100% my favorite leggings!!

Theses cotton leggings hold everything in place, support your practice or your daily errands around town. They are breathable, and feel so good that you could wear them all day!

(4) True Roots Cookbook by Kristen Cavallari

$12

LOVE this book! It is full of gluten free, dairy free and refined sugar free recipes that the whole family will love!

(5) Made for More Movie

approx. $14

Rachel Hollis has created a movie, Made for More, out of her hit inspirational sell-out weekend event!

This inspiring movie will leave you wanting to go out and live your dream.

(6) JBL Headphones

$199
Favorite headphones! These wireless headphones are perfect for my workout, cardio session or for when I travel. Highly recommend.

(7) Harney and Sons tea

$6 and up

By far my favorite tea brand! I grew up with the Harney family, and love everything this company stands for.

I have tried several of their teas, and have loved them all!

A few of my favorite… Hot Cinnamon, Winter White Earl Grey, and Mango Black tea.

(8) Lean and Green Body Pullover Zip Up

$56

The perfect pullover for those chilly mornings heading to the studio, or even post yoga coffee with friends! Breathable and light weight, this pullover comes in black or pink.

Thankful

With Thanksgiving behind us, and the holidays and New Year approaching quickly, let’s take a moment and pause.

There seems to be such a rush this time of year, one holiday on to the next. Presents, parties, and an overfull schedule has us moving at a rapid pace.

Let’s pause and surround ourselves with gratitude for this amazing life we are living. Let go of any hardship, stress, worry and think about what you are grateful for.

Gratitude for our families, friends, and the community in which we surround ourselves.

Every year, my family gathers around the table at Thanksgiving and we take turns stating what we are grateful for that year. It always struck me as odd that we only do this once a year. Shouldn’t we be thinking about, and outwardly expressing these sentiments weekly or even daily?

If we don’t tell those around us that we are grateful for them, how will they know?

How will they know that the simple act of kindness they showed to you changed you?

I encourage you to all pause, and surround yourself with gratitude.

Think about 5 things you are truly grateful for each day.

One of my favorite parts of my morning routine (thank you Rachel Hollis for the idea) is writing down 5 things I am grateful for. Each day they may look slightly different, but they always put my life into perspective. I look at the list every morning and I say ‘wow, life is pretty great’. This helps me to create positive energy in the morning, and then bring that positive energy out into my day. My clients, and those I meet then feel that positivity and hopefully some of it rubs off on them, and they are able to pass it along.

Here are my 5 things for today…

1. I am grateful for my husband, my partner in life.

2. I’m grateful for this time each and every morning for myself, to pause and reflect.

3. I am grateful for my dog Neera, who lays by my feet as I write this.

4. I’m grateful that my business is doing so well, and I have the opportunity to share something that I am so passionate about with my community near and far.

5. I am grateful for my family, and my friends who have turned into family.

What are your five things?

Roasted Carrots Recipe

Another Fall favorite!

This roasted carrot recipe is perfect for the holidays, and a sure favorite by everyone at your table.

Roasted Carrots

Ingredients:

• 1 bag of whole carrots (approximately 6 whole carrots)

• Grapeseed or Avocado Oil

• Sea Salt and pepper to taste

• Garlic powder and crushed red pepper optional.

Directions:

1. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F

2. Wash carrots, and slice into 2 inch pieces.

3. Spray baking sheet with cooking oil (our favorite is coconut oil or avocado oil spray)

4. Place carrots onto baking sheet, coat with oil (grapeseed or avocado oil) and season to taste.

5. Bake for approximately 40 minutes, or until tender.

Rosemary Lemon Chicken Recipe

One of my favorite fall meals! Perfect for chilly fall days, holidays, and even Sunday football.

This also happens to be one of my easiest recipes to date.

Rosemary Lemon Chicken

Cook Time: approximately 6 hours

Ingredients:

• 1 small whole chicken

• 2 lemons, sliced

• 1 large onion, diced

• 16 oz chicken broth, or bone broth

• 1 tsp pink Himalayan sea salt

• 1 tsp black pepper

• 6 springs of fresh rosemary, remove rosemary from stems

Directions:

1. Wash chicken and place in crock pot.

2. Wash and slice lemons.

3. Wash and dice onion.

4. Wash rosemary and remove leaves from stem.

5. Pour chicken broth into crock pot, add onion, sea salt and pepper.

6. Top with lemons and rosemary… add some inside of chicken for added flavor!

7. Cover the crock pot and cook on low for approximately 6 hours, or until the chicken reaches 165 degrees F.

8. Enjoy!

Blue Zones Recap

It’s official!! Lean and Green Body® is a Blue Zones Project® partner!

The ribbon cutting was on Saturday, November 3rd at 8th Ave South in Naples. We were honored to have the official Blue Zone’s team there to celebrate our new partnership. Lean and Green Body® is excited to be a partner and support the mission of the Blue Zones Project®.

The ribbon cutting was followed by a 60 minute vinyasa yoga class over looking the beach … the sound of the waves soothed our souls during savasana.

Delicious Raw and Epiphany Bakery both showed their support with post yoga treats!

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So what is the Blue Zones Project®???

According to healthways.com “A Blue Zones Community® is an area in which citizens, schools, employers, restaurants, grocery stores, and community leaders have come together to optimize residents’ longevity and well-being. Blue Zones Project® by Healthways takes a systematic, environmental approach to identifying and creating policies and programs that support community transformation. “.

Blue Zones is working to create healthier communities, helping us to live longer better lives, one partnership at a time.

Blue Zones Project® believes in the Power 9®…

1. Down Shift

2. Purpose

3. Plant Slant

4. Wine @ Five

5. Family First

6. 80% Rule

7. Move Naturally

8. Right Tribe

9. Belong

Down Shift: reverse disease by finding a stress relieving strategy that works for you.

Purpose: wake up with purpose each day to add up to 7 years to your life.

Plant Slant: put less meat & more plants on your plate.

Wine @ Five: enjoy a glass of wine with good friend each day.

Family First: invest time with your family & add up to 6 years to your life.

80% Rule: eat mindfully & stop when 80% full.

Move Naturally: find ways to move more! You’ll burn calories without having to think about it.

Right Tribe: surround yourself with people who support positive behaviors.

Belong: belong to a faith-based community & attend services 4 times er month to add 4-14 years to our lifespan.

the power 9® info is taken from the Blue Zones Project® handout

For more information on the Blue Zones Project® or to become a partner email bluezonesprojectswfl@sharecare.com or call (239) 624-2312