We've Moved! You're Being Redirected- All Content is Available There :)

Please join us at: www.happyhealthybalance.net (new improved site) and get our free updates. We look forward to connecting there!

Quinoa Pasta Gluten Free Recipe

Looking for this recipe?  It can be found over [HERE] at our site and new blog.  We're still testing everything out, but right now we're planning on migrating everything over there.

If you haven't already... best way to stay in the loop is to sign up [HERE] for our free updates.  Cheers!

Nothing Like Home Made Veggie Soup - Recipe

I love soup.  Especially during the winter when it's cold out.  Helps warm my insides and opens up the sinuses.  ;)  I make all my soups with a pressure cooker- wrote about them HERE.  They speed up the process and everything that comes out of them is delicious.  This soup is easy to make, quick, nutrient dense and of course... super delicious.  Lately, I've been changing up the ingredients based on what's been available and I like the changes.

Yes- I do add olives and avocado to them every chance I get.  Love the combo- salt from the olives and the avocado is tasty and a good fat which helps stabilize blood sugar.  Yes- good fat is good for you.  No- it will not make you fat.

This is what I used this time (organic):

1 Stick of Grassfed Butter (I use and recommend KerryGold- I use half of it)
2 Whole Onions- chopped
Leeks- this time I used an entire frozen bag of them
Mushrooms- diced (I like to cut my mushrooms)
Bag of Carrots
Good size head of parsley- fined chopped
4 Bok Choy- left whole aside from cutting ends off
4 Cloves Garlic
2 Bay Leaves
Spring Water

The key is to melt the butter and saute the onions till sweated and glistening.  Once done add the rest of the ingredients.  I pressure cook for approx 10 minutes once pressure is reached.  Play around and add what you like.  Can't go wrong with veggie soup.  See what happens below.  :)  Yep- we joined the VINE world.  Join us!



p.s. My wonderful lentil soup (yes- it's delicious too) recipe is HERE.

Enjoy!

Stay in the LOOP!

Remember to SIGN UP to stay in the LOOP. :) Goodness straight to your inbox (different than feed burner for posts). Once a month, with ♥. http://eepurl.com/k_s01

Love before me. Love behind me.  Love at my left.  Love at my right.  Love above me.  Love below me. Love onto me.  Love in my surroundings.  Love to all.  Love to the universe.  Peace before me. Peace behind me.  Peace at my left.  Peace at my right.  Peace above me.  Peace below me. Peace onto me.  Peace in my surroundings.  Peace to all.  Peace to the universe.  Light before me. Light behind me.  Light at my left.  Light at my right.  Light above me.  Light below me. Light onto me.  Light in my surroundings.  Light to all.  Light to the universe.  {Meditation from Spiritual Leader Gurunam}

Delicious Pizza (Gluten and Grain Free) Recipe

Hello!  Yes- this is amazingly delicious gluten + grain free pizza!  Simple and minimal prep time and it isn't one of those recipes that just look like but don't taste like what you're looking for.  ;)

You do have to like quinoa, but it doesn't really taste like quinoa and you have to like flat crust pizza.

I used a combo of red and white quinoa, but any quinoa will do.  

1. Soak 3/4 cup quinoa for at least 8 hours.  Then rinse well and drain.

2. Add soaked/rinsed quinoa, 1/4 cup water, and 1-2 cloves of garlic, 1/2 teaspoon with sea salt, and blend in a high speed blender till it resembles pancake batter.  I used a Cuisinart.  

I blended and scraped sides with a spatula a couple of times. 

If you need more water slowly add up to 1/4 cup more (I only needed 1/4 cup).

3. Preheat the oven to 450 degrees and coat a cast iron skillet with olive oil.  

Let skillet heat up in oven for approximately 10 minutes (good to do whilst blending- step #2).

4. Remove the skillet from oven.  Spread batter with spatula (see image below).  Bake for approximately 15-20 minutes.  Flip {*} and bake (if necessary) for another 5-10 minutes.  

5. Add toppings of your choice! 

{*} Good to do this step after the flip too.  

I used tomato paste, olives, basil and Dr-Cow's nut cheese (last picture).

I haven't had pizza for so long so this was an especially nice treat... and no regrets later.  :) 

Charcoal

Charcoal has been having a theme lately... I love both of these items.  Use code: GOG211 if you shop at iherb.com to save.

Giovanni Detox Purifying Exfoliant Scrub. It's warm when you put it on the body and is a nice scrub.
Activated charcoal and volcanic ash combine, diving deep into pores, absorbing debris. Whisking away bacteria and toxins. Making way for exotic acai and goji berry, super-antioxidants hand-harvested at their peak for maximum nourishment. Skin is left gently fragranced with essential oils of luscious fig and clean green tea. Giving you clarity for mind, body and soul.

The Moso Purifying Bags got awesome reviews and thought why not try them out...
Moso air purifying bags, made of linen and filled with bamboo charcoal, absorb unpleasant odors and dehumidify the air. The porous structure of the high density bamboo charcoal helps remove bacteria, harmful pollutants and allergens from the air and absorbs moisture, preventing mold and mildew by trapping the impurities inside each pore. The Moso air purifying bag has been scientifically proven to reduce the  amount of formaldehyde, ammonia, benzene, and chloroform gases emitted from everyday items such as paint, carpeting, furniture, air fresheners, chemical cleaners, rubber, and plastics. Toxin free, the bags are safe to use around pets and children. The bamboo charcoal rejuvenates when the bags are placed in sunlight once a month. You can reuse the bags for two years, after which the charcoal can be poured into the soil around plants to fertilize and help retain moisture. 

Chaga Hot Chocolate Recipe

Chaga hot chocolate is REALLY good and according to Daniel Vitalis and others, it is very good for you (medicinal, full of antioxidants, great for the immune system, etc).  If you make it this way- it's not only delicious, but low glycemic so you won't be spiking your blood sugar.  Additionally, if you like coffee- chaga has a similar taste sans the bad effects.

Take a piece(s) of chaga...  These are from Keystone Herbs and boil in spring water till boiling- then simmer for 5 minutes.  Drain thru a strainer into a mug and add a tablespoon of cacao powder.  Use xyiltol, green stevia, coconut sugar or liquid stevia* to sweeten.  Top off with a little coconut milk (not coconut water) and mix well.  Enjoy!

*I have been a huge advocate of liquid stevia.  I do really like it... and still think it's better vs the regular refined sugars.  However, I have been hearing more and more that it is refined to be more potent and sweeter- so just keep that in mind.  And I am on the search for green stevia- apparently less refined.

Use code: GOG211 if you shop at iherb.com to save.

SEED: The Untold Story

Happy New Year!  Hope it's off to a fantastic start!  I just backed this Kickstarter: SEED The Untold Story- hope you'll join me and share with your friends.  This is SO VERY IMPORTANT!

SEED: The Untold Story is a new documentary film that will investigate the dramatic story of seeds, the basis of life on earth. For 12,000 years man has been nurturing and cultivating seeds to form the backbone of civilization. Now, 94% of our seed varieties have been lost and many more are nearing extinction.

SEED unveils a David and Goliath battle for the future of our seeds by examining how five chemical corporations have taken control of seeds through patents, copyrights and genetic modification. These companies are placing ownership on the seeds, literally stealing the genetic material from our ancestors who nurtured these seeds for thousands of years. As Vandana Shiva says “the threat to seed freedom impacts the very fabric of human life and life on the planet.”

Reflections

On the eve of the New Year I always take time to reflect on the year and put goals in place for the new one.  I've been doing this for many years now and I think it greatly helps define and direct one's success in achieving their goals... before it's too late.  

My Grandfather, whom I was extremely close to passed recently.  He lived a grand 93 years and was with family and friends till the end.  We all read this book: Learning How to Let Go by Mary Beth Willi.  A hospice nurse recommended it- said she had read many and this was the best one out there.  It was a tremendous help.  Identifies stages of dying physically and spiritually.  The author has been a hospice nurse for many years and recognized familiar patterns/stages in the dying process- it's a process we all go through. It is so interesting.  This book brings knowledge so you understand exactly what is going on and also a comfort that they are ok.  In our experience, the book was spot on and witnessed many things we wouldn't have recognized had we not read the book.  Part of it is on Google Reader too HERE. I recommend to all.  

Though 93 years may seem like a long time, when you're there- it doesn't seem that long.  

Think we can all relate.

So.... 

Spend time with those you love and cherish.  

Do the things in this life you want to do.  

Enjoy it!

I appreciate all of you sticking with me, your comments, emails and likes. If not already, please join us on Twitter and FaceBook (which unfortunately seems to be limiting what they share (grrr)), so please make sure you SIGN UP for the HHB Newsletter, which I hope to have out on a monthly basis.  

No spam, won't share your info, and we won't send countless emails-

hope it can be something you look forward to receiving.

Wishing you all the best for 2013 and beyond!  Much love!

PBS Christmas in Yellowstone

Watch Christmas in Yellowstone on PBS. See more from Nature.

Christmas in Yellowstone, is one of my favourite Nature episodes- ever.  

Christmas or no Christmas... it's lovely.  :)

"If you are depressed, you are living in the past.  If you are anxious, you are living in the future.  If you are at peace, you are living in the present." -Lao Tzu

Spring Water Delivered

I have been advocating and luckily drinking spring water for quite a few years now, thanks to Daniel Vitalis and his findaspring.com.  It's the B-E-S-T.

For many, this might not be an easy option. However, there are other options...

Option One: I highly recommended the Berkey Filter, which I think everyone should have on hand even just as a safety precaution (*ahem* Hurricane Sandy and highly chlorinated water).  I use Berkey filtered water for cooking (along with my aquasana shower filter) and drink in those rare instances I do not have spring water.  It produces safe and good tasting water.

Option Two: I have been using a spring water delivery service- straight from the Adirondacks!  They know what's up: "people still ask where does the water come from? It is called the great Hydrologic Cycle".  It's clean, crisp, refreshing and just as good if not better than Stokes.  As much as I like to get a break from the city- now it's all about pure enjoyment vs having to make the trip for water.  If interested, contact: marc@themanhattanwatercompany.com and let him know Dawn sent you his way.  They are in the midst of updating their "branding", but you can visit them HERE.

If you don't live in the New York, New Jersey and surrounding areas- I am sure there will be other spring water deliveries popping up soon.  Clean water for all.  Cheers!

Lions and Tortoises

Been craving some nature love and found two beautiful stories on 60 Minutes.  <3 p="p">

"Once you choose hope, anything's possible."  
-Christopher Reeve

Protein Rich Almond Bread Recipes: Avocado Toast + PB&J Toasted with Chips

Been whipping up a lot of almond bread (substituting coconut nectar with honey) and enjoying it a few different ways.  Sometimes very simple... like fresh out of the oven with some butter and or St. Dalfour jam.  Or with smashed avocado and olives, or the good ol' peanut butter and jelly decadently topped with some crunchy chips.  YUM.  All are superbly protein rich, gluten/grain-free and D-E-L-I-C-I-O-U-S.

p.s. iherb.com savings went up! Use code: GOG211 to save $10 off your first order of $40 or more.  Orders less than $40 receive $5 off.

"The basic problem does not lie with the past, but in the present where we make the decisive choice to live in the present or the past."  -Ken Wapnick

Tea Bag Wisdom

"The purpose of life is to enjoy every moment."  Received some tea bag wisdom + inspiration today via some yummy Yogi Ginger Tea.  Love.

Why Aren't There Any Twinkies?

You may have heard... "the seemingly imperishable Twinkie finally may have an expiration date". Hostess is declaring bankruptcy and many have been rushing out to purchase (no- not me) twinkies, etc to find empty shelves.  Apparently they're popping up on eBay.  

Save yourself the stomach ache.   Rocks and petroleum are mostly what's in them- read more here.  It's unfortunate for jobs lost, but it's a very good sign... One of the reasons credited to their downfall: failure to adjust to demands for healthier foods.  Now twinkies are not the only "bad" treat out there, but it's quite significant.  

I remember Hostess well.  As a kid we would get them occasionally as treats.  I do remember them being good- but if I had known what I was eating- I wouldn't have. I haven't had anything Hostess for over a decade and think it's best no one else does as well.  Do not eat poison.  Eat something good that will nourish your body- your home.  Yes these things exist.  Hostess is only good for nostalgia.  

"If you cling to the rocks at the bottom of the river, you are sure to be battered by the rivers current. Let go and allow the current to move you into your next great adventure. Life will shake us loose so we become open and compassionate to all." -Rose Hart

Beet Radish Quinoa Recipe

I love beets.  They're vibrant and oddly beautiful, but most important they have many health benefits are very cleansing:

• Garden beet is very low in calories (provide only 45 kcal/100 g), and contain zero cholesterol and small amount of fat. Its nutrition benefits come particularly from fiber, vitamins, minerals, and unique plant derived anti-oxidants.

• The root is rich source of phytochemical compound, glycine betaine. Betaine has the property of lowering homocysteine levels within the blood. Homocysteine, one of highly toxic metabolite, promotes platelet clot as well as atherosclerotic-plaque formation, which, otherwise, can be harmful to blood vessels. High levels of homocysteine in the blood result in the development of coronary heart disease (CHD), stroke and peripheral vascular diseases.
  
  
• Raw beets are an excellent source of folates. It contains about 109 µg/100 g of this vitamin(Provides 27% of RDA). However, extensive cooking may significantly deplete its level in food. Folates are necessary for DNA synthesis within the cells. When given during peri-conception period folates can prevent neural tube defects in the baby.
  
  
• Fresh tubers contain small amounts of vitamin-C; however, its top greens are rather excellent sources of this vitamin. 100 g of beet greens provide 30 mg or 50% of RDA. Vitamin C is one of the powerful natural antioxidants, which helps the human body scavenge deleterious free radicals one of the reasons for cancer development.
  
  
• Additionally, the top greens are an excellent source of carotenoids, flavonoid anti-oxidants, and vitamin A; contain these compounds several times more than that of in the roots. Vitamin A is required maintaining healthy mucus membranes and skin and is essential for vision. Consumption of natural vegetables rich in flavonoids helps to protect from lung and oral cavity cancers.
  
  
• The root is also rich source of B-complex vitamins such as niacin (B-3), pantothenic acid (B-5), pyridoxine (B-6) and minerals such as iron, manganese, copper, and magnesium.
  
  
• Further, the root indeed has very good levels of potassium. 100 g fresh root has 325 mg of potassium or 7% of daily requirements. Potassium lowers heart rate and regulates metabolism inside the cells by countering detrimental effects of sodium.

Same goes with radishes: 

• Radishes are very low calorie root vegetables. Fresh root provides just 16 calories per 100 g., nonetheless; they are a very good source of anti-oxidants, electrolytes, minerals, vitamins and dietary fiber.
  
  
• Radish, like other cruciferous and Brassica vegetables, contains isothiocyanate anti-oxidant compound called sulforaphane. Studies suggest that sulforaphane has proven role against prostate, breast, colon and ovarian cancers by virtue of its cancer-cell growth inhibition, and cyto-toxic effects on cancer cells.
  
  
• Fresh roots are rich in vitamin C; provide about 15 mg or 25% of DRI of vitamin C per 100 g. Vitamin C is a powerful water soluble anti-oxidant required by the body for synthesis of collagen. Vitamin C helps the body scavenge harmful free radicals, prevention from cancers, inflammation and help boost immunity.
  
  
• In addition, they contain adequate levels of folates, vitamin B-6, riboflavin, thiamin and minerals such as iron, magnesium, copper and calcium. 
  
  
• Further, they contain many phytochemicals like indoles which are detoxifying agents and zea-xanthin, lutein and beta carotene, which are flavonoid antioxidants. Their total antioxidant strength, measured in terms of oxygen radical absorbance capacity (ORAC value), is 1736 µmol TE/100 g.

Both were fresh from the farmers market.  Scrub well.  Lightly coat in olive oil and put in a covered glass container.  Baked at 350 degrees for approximately 30 minutes.  Let cool and peel.  I added to quinoa along with avocados and olives (yes these are staples) and holy WOW- super fantastic.  Enjoy!

The Kindness of Strangers

Though Sandy is not be the same as 9/11... it's not stopping New Yorkers from pulling together.  I always heard so many touching stories about that horrid time and since living here I have experienced the community of being a "New Yorker".  New Yorkers love New York and they protect it.  This picture on Instagram really touched me: The Kindness of Strangers.  As one commenter perfectly put it: Fantastic Spirit!  Nuff said.  :)

p.s. I hope you and yours are safe.

"I have dreamed in my life, dreams that have stayed with me ever after, and changed my ideas; they have gone through and through me, like wine through water, and altered the color of my mind." -Emily Bronte 

Green Market Beauties

Thought I'd share a few snaps from a recent visit to the Union Square Farmers / Green Market.  :) Beauties!

"The world needs dreamers and the world needs doers. But above all, the world needs dreamers who do."  -Sarah Ban Breathnach

Beautiful + Delicious Acorn Squash Recipe

Acorn squash is one of my favourite vegetables... especially when stuffed with something yummy like lentil soup.  Don't be afraid of the squash... just cut in half and de-seed.  Lightly coat baking sheet/dish (I use a spray olive oil).  Place squash face down.  Bake for approximately 30-60 minutes (in preheated oven 350 degrees) depending on the size of the squash.  I have more delicious squash recipes to share with you soon.  I have to thank my Mom for this one- it's from her mini food forest garden.  :)  Thanks Mom!  Enjoy!

Health is Freedom

Most people would say their freedom is very important to them, and many do not realize they take it for granted. You risk your freedom when you do not take care of your health (physical, spiritual, emotional) and I think this world could use a little more balance and awareness in regards to its importance. 

I had the pleasure of attending Institute for Integrative Nutrition's September Conference (group stretch).  It was inspiring, informative, and wonderful to meet so many like minded individuals who are here to help and support others with their health goals (if they choose to go on that journey).  We enjoyed wonderful lectures from Andrea Beaman, Daniel Amen, Mark Bittman, John Douillard, and many more, plus the amazing Joshua Rosenthal, who made all of this possible.  

When I first started thinking about going to school for a "nutrition" degree I had looked into quite a few schools and debated back and forth for some time, because I was unsure if I wanted and needed to know for example how the body's entire chemistry works (as my wonderful doctor does).  Perhaps one day I will... but I realized I didn't need to know that in order to be an amazing health coach.  A health coach is different than a doctor.  Did you know medical doctors only receive 25 hours of instruction on nutrition?  Health coaches support clients in ways doctors cannot.

In short, I am very glad I began with IIN.  I love their stance on bio-individuality and holistic health. They know that diet is important, and they know others aspects such as relationships and spiritual practice play a vital role in one's health too. Yes- I knew a lot going into the program, but I have also learned a lot.  There is always more to learn...  Another major plus for IIN is the support they offer each student to build a practice.  They want you to be successful.  As an ambassador of IIN, I will share offers for enrollment from time to time.  I mostly share on facebook, twitter, and instagram so please be sure join me there too.  Hopefully, come November I will send out HHB's first edition of a monthly newsletter, so please sign up here.

Interested in working with a health coach?  Or know someone who might be?  :) You can learn more about my program here.  Want to learn more about IIN's program and/or being a health coach?  For all inquiries please write: dawn@happyhealthybalance.net.  

Let's celebrate our health and freedom!  Cheers!

Quinoa Like Pasta Gluten Free Recipe

I love the taste of fresh basil, olives, garlic and olive oil together... it's even better with "pasta".  Once in a blue moon I'll treat myself to the brown rice pasta version. There's also the yummy spagetti squash version.... lately I have been eating a little quinoa and feel fine. This version is, of course really delicious too.  Quinoa is a seed not a grain, and brown rice supposedly has no gluten in it (and the spagetti squash is a vegetable- no worries there), but for most people with a "gluten" intolerance it's beneficial to watch/limit their intake of "grain-like" foods too.  Brown rice, unfortunately has pretty much the same effect on me as gluten containing foods so find healthy alternatives.  Luckily, there are many options out there so keep playing around.

Quinoa is super easy to make.  The biggest challenge is thoroughly rinsing it.  Take your time and do this well.

- 1 cup quinoa rinsed well to 1.5 cups water- bring to boil
- Cover and simmer for 15 minutes- will be perfectly fluffy
- Finely chop olives, fresh basil, 1-2 garlic cloves (I use mini Cuisinart)
- Mix with Quinoa
- Add 2-3 Tablespoons Olive Oil to taste

Protein rich, fresh, healthy, tasty ingredients and non-heated oils.  Perfect.  Enjoy!

"Remembering that we'll all be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to make the big choices in life. Because almost everything, all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure, these things just fall away when faced with death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart." -Steve Jobs

Pax Understand Men Workshops Review

It was by way of reading my horoscope on the AstroTwins I fell into the work of Alison Armstrong (ie PAX/ www.understandmen.com).  I listened to one of her free audios and it was... WOW.  So I devoured all the freebies on her site, signed up for her newsletter, and said if she ever comes to the East Coast I will go check her out.  Not a week later did I get an email from Pax- Alison would be in Boston for Celebrating Men, Satisfying Women- and off I went.  It was life changing.  It's not just about your husband, partner or lover- it's about your Dad, brother, sons, boss... it's about ALL the men in your life and you.  It's FANTASTIC.

The program starts off with Celebrating Men, Satisfying Women which is so informative and life changing, I think it should be taught to everyone in school.  To me it's just as important as teaching kids how to balance their finances/not go into debt and about eating real food- all come to mind as they are unfortunately not (yet) taught in school.  All SO very important.

It was there I signed up for the rest of their program- they offer a fantastic package (huge savings) to purchase all if you are interested and can commit in the class. Just a heads up.  Here is a little bit about each of the workshops I attended and who I had as my workshop leader:

Celebrating Men, Satisfying Women

Workshop leader: Alison Armstrong

Celebrating Men, Satisfying Women is your source for understanding men and all the extraordinary results that makes possible. An intimate workshop designed specifically for women to allow over 20 fascinating topics to be absorbed beyond the conceptual level and integrated into your life.

Celebrating Women: Regarding Ecstasy and Power ("Queen" Course)

Workshop leader: Kathryn Jaliman

Called the “Queen Course” by graduates, this challenging and clarifying workshop shows women how to bring out the best in themselves, especially those regal qualities that allow us to be happy and fulfilled, while bringing energy and life to those around us. The same qualities that inspire men to admire, be influenced by and generously provide for women.

Celebrating Men and Marriage

Workshop leader: Jaime Myers

If you’re married or engaged to be married, dating and thinking about marriage, or even uncertain that marriage is right for you, Celebrating Men & Marriage will make a positive difference in your life. You’ll dispel the fantasies, get to the bottom of the conflicts and disappointments, and gain understanding and tools that you can use immediately.

Understanding Women: Unlock the Mystery

Workshop leader: Paulette Slater

For anyone who wants to understand why women do what they do – how they think, act, speak and listen – and how to work with it instead of being frustrated by it! In this workshop, both you and the men in your life gain an extraordinary understanding of how you are put together as a woman.

Celebrating Men and Sex

Workshop leader: Paulette Slater

Celebrating Men & Sex will explain how every aspect of being male is expressed in sex, as well as how to reconcile male sexuality with your own needs and values. You will be surprised at the depth of understanding and appreciation men have for sex and the opportunity to have sex.

In regards to my workshop leaders- Alison is my favourite.  Jaime was awesome and I also really liked Paulette.  Kathryn was nice and very "queen" like, but I didn't resonate so much with the class overall.  It was informative and important, but I thought it could've been two days vs three and there was too much group sharing.  A few of us walked away not really enjoying it- however we are all different and I also heard from others who really enjoyed it.  

I am not a "workshop" kind of person in general...  I prefer to read and listen on my own time vs group sharing.  And if that is more your speed Alison has a ton of amazing audios and books- I have them.  However, I can see why the workshops are an integral part of their and your success and why they had us group share- they do make a bigger impact.  All in all I am really glad I signed up for the series.  You will come away with invaluable and beneficial information.

Btw... if you are in NYC on Thursday, September 27th, 2012 there is a FREE workshop, Making Sense of Men, so you can get a feel for how they are.  I have no doubt it will be good.  I highly recommend!