Christmas is almost here guys, followed closely by New Year’s Eve and all of the resolutions that come with it. Here today to help us out with the overwhelm that can often come with both are
They’re going to be sharing their fail-proof 5-step plan to winter thriving for the whole family.
Before we get to that though, make sure you take a second to check out their revolutionary which
It’s no secret that winter is a challenging season for many of us. It’s like a cocktail – equal parts little daylight, a dash of sickness, four consecutive weeks of holidays (read: too many parties, too much sugar, spending all of your money on gifts, weekends packed with commitments, and the stress that you’re not doing enough), and then rolling into the new year wondering what last year’s resolution was again?
Do you even bother this year?
That’s the worst cocktail EVER. And like it or not, you’re forced to take it in baby sips. When you look at winter like that, it sucks.
“The blues” will be inevitable. So let’s throw on some rose-colored glasses and try that again…
There’s a secret that will transform your feelings around winter, and you’ll know the people who are in on it because they will be unfazed by the stress of so many people around them. Winter is a time to turn inward, and focus on the things that matter most.
It’s a time to light candles and curl up under cozy blankets. It’s a time to enjoy warm, spiced foods, sit by fireplaces and get more sleep. And with the start of a new year, we are offered a new beginning, a chance to reflect, and the opportunity to to be intentional. Winter is magical.
Both of these sentiments are real, and you get to choose the perspective you’ll practice over the next few months.
One of them will breed stress, more illness, and leave you feeling ravaged and empty by the new year. The other will keep you grounded, help you stay present, mindful, healthier and happier. The choice is yours.
Changing your perspective is a practice. As with every practice the more you do it, the easier it becomes and the stronger you become. We want you to not just survive, but THRIVE this winter. And we believe you can do it!
The Game Plan
Your new perspective: If it’s not a “HELL YES,” then it’s a no. Period.
Get more comfortable with saying no and not having to make an excuse or carry guilt. Think of this as setting boundaries for yourself, your time and your energy.
With more time, you can work some hygge into your days.
Practicing hygge
Hygge plays a large role in the Danish culture. And the Danes have been dubbed as some of the happiest people on the planet, despite their climate.
Hygge (pronounced HEW-gə) encompasses the practices of coziness, community and wellbeing. Think: hiking with friends, sledding and cocoa, making luminaries, lighting candles, cozy blankets scattered throughout your space, gathering often with friends and loved ones, journaling, enjoying the great outdoors, etc. Hygge is the practice of gratitude for yourself, your space, your people, and your weather.
Nourish your body with nutrient-dense foods
Do this for your energy, your sleep, and your immune system. Ayurveda tells us that these are the months when our digestive fire is highest and our bodies require more fuel to stay warm and healthy. Do you feel hungrier in the winter? That IS real – your body is talking.
Thankfully, seasonal winter veggies just so happen to be some of the most delicious. Get out that roasting pan and gather your best soup and stew recipes. See one of our favorite stew recipes below!
See this season through the eyes of your children
This is an opportunity to be a spinner of magic. Few things are as gratifying as watching your kiddos eyes light up – and it really doesn’t take much.
A nighttime holiday story while all snuggled in one bed, sitting by the tree with a cup of cocoa, a holiday craft, sharing your favorite holiday memories during dinner, surprising friends and family by caroling at their (our favorite tradition!), volunteering your time for people in need etc.
Get outside
There is no bad weather, only bad clothing. If you aren’t getting out daily, challenge yourself to do so. Nothing can make up for the lack of fresh air.
So get on the appropriate clothing and get out, even if it’s just 15-20 minutes (studies show even that amount can make a difference in mood, energy and health).
Find your people
Don’t go it alone! Find a workout buddy, a soup circle to fill your freezer with your friends’ favorite recipes, a partner that will make you go to yoga. Whatever it looks like, find the people that will support you and hold you accountable.
Sometimes we are just better at showing up for other people – and that can make us amazing parents, but exhausted humans. Find people who will help you show up for yourself.
Get out your planner and pencil Sharpie yourself in. When you’re making your daily lists, include your hygge, meals you’re proud to feed yourself and your family, some fresh air and a touch of magic.
There are plenty of ways to roll hygge, fresh air and magic into one “task,” so, as we say to our kiddos, get creative. Here’s to rising above the stress and treating ourselves the way we deserve this holiday season and into the new year.
African Peanut-y Stew
If you like creamy, savory, nutty flavors, this stoup is for you. It’s hearty and filling and is without a doubt a meal on it’s own – though we love it served with a simple side salad.
Make Ahead tip: The soup stores well covered in the fridge for 5-6 days or the freezer for months.
Ingredients
1 pound organic boneless, skinless chicken thighs
Sea salt to taste
3 tablespoons ghee or coconut oil
1 large yellow or white onion, sliced
3-inch piece of ginger, peeled and minced
6 large garlic cloves, chopped
2 pounds sweet potatoes, scrubbed and cut into chunks
1 head cauliflower, cut into florets
32 oz (4 cups) broth organic chicken stock
1 15-ounce can crushed tomatoes
1 cup almond butter
½ cup dry roasted almonds or cashews
1 tablespoon ground coriander
1 teaspoon cayenne
½ cup of fresh cilantro, chopped
Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the ghee or oil in a large, heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Salt the chicken thighs on both sides and then brown them on each side in the oil – you may need to do this in two batches. Set the chicken pieces aside after they are browned.
Add the onions to the pot and saute for 3-4 minutes, stirring often and scraping any browned bits off the bottom of the pot. Add the ginger and garlic and sauté another 2 minutes, then add the sweet potatoes and cauliflower and stir well until combined.
Add the chicken, chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, almond butter, almonds/cashews, coriander and cayenne and stir well to combine. Bring to a simmer then cover the pot, lower heat and simmer gently for 60 minutes or until the chicken meat falls apart easily.
Using tongs remove chicken and lightly shred, then add back into the pot and mix well.
Finally, add salt and additional cayenne if needed, then season with black pepper. Stir in the cilantro and serve.
Psst – Speaking of community, the ladies of Prescribe Nutrition have a program that is ALL about community, fueling your body and feeling your best.
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