#not me overthinking Joel’s base choices

[sophieeee0105]

I was thinking about the parallel of Joel building the relationship in double life and then a submarine in limited life…

and it’s almost like the relationship burned and then the remains sunk under water and got repaired into a submarine. (Except for the fact that the relationship was on land and now the submarine has ascended to the sky)

[geekgemsspooksandtoons]

The Last of Us episodes 4 and 5

Many minutes ago, I finally watched, “Please Hold to My Hand” and “Endure and Survive”. I was wanting to watch these two episodes like a movie since there very closely connected.

Anyway, while I’m not really going to review these, because I don’t want to. But I want to say this. I really liked these two episodes. And this is mainly my opinion. While I have played and enjoyed the first game. I legit think the series is better than the show. While there is a big difference between a video game and a tv show. But I am mainly speaking about it writing wise, because I prefer some of the choices made in this adaptation thus far. Because the show has been I guess getting better and better. In terms of characters and other things. It’s really a fantastic show. Especially being based upon a game that I did enjoy, but its story wasn’t really for me. Yet the adaptation here with its runtime and also some changes have won me over. Now, silly things I want to talk about.

1. For a show that’s very serious. I’ve very surprised that in episode 5, before they get to the city, but also some other moments that really made me laugh. Like, it’s very surprising. Maybe it’s just me, but the fact there were moments really lightening the mood before shit got serious, I dig that.

2. This isn’t really a silly thing. But you know, while I get what they are trying to do. I strangely wish the show showed more off of the gore in certain scenes considering the whole infected creatures attacking people. I get why they likely won’t do that. And it’s still pretty gorey in some scenes. Yet I’m thinking very nasty shit.

3. I’m going to be honest, when Joel said he was 36 in episode 1, I thought he was joking when answering to Sarah. Yet learning in episode 4...in this show, he’s 56...

In this show, Joel Miller was born in 1967. Compared to Joel in the first being, being born in the 80′s somewhere and he was in his late 20′s during the first part of the first game...like...while like with other reasons. But I could be overthinking it. Yet looking at it in a different context considering his age in the show...and the fact he’s more vulnerable in the show as I’ve seen and read.

Yet my silly thought process I was thinking is the fact Joel has likely seen every Friday the 13th to that point. And that’s just...wow...and I forget what month the outbreak starts in the show, but the possibility Freddy Vs Jason might’ve been not released yet.

4. I legitimately did an evil laugh when seeing that burning truck fall into the ground, giving way for all of the infected to come up. And even did an evil laugh when seeing that Bloater pop up. My God, I love the stunt work of the infected and the other creatures. It’s always nice seeing that makeup work on the actors and whatever else.

[sylvies-chen]

Ooh since you like giving music recs, mind sharing 5 favorite albums? I love getting music recs and finding new artists to listen to!

OOOOOOH okay this is a really good question!! So narrowing it down is proving to be a bit of a challenge so I’m going to make two lists: the first will be what I think are the top 5 best albums ever and the other list being my personal favourite 5 albums at the moment. I think that way I can talk about music I like while also giving recommendations that aren’t purely mainstream stuff :)

Top 5 Best Albums Ever… According To Me

Rumours by Fleetwood Mac - If a group of people cheating on each other can make an album like this and include the most achingly cool and fantastic base lines (in The Chain) then maybe we as a society need to re-evaluate our stance on monogamy

Folklore by Taylor Swift - Genuinely convinced Taylor Swift hit the jackpot writing this because she really honed into an introspective, calmer theme for an album being released in a time where people were in lockdown and had no choice but to sit around and think (or overthink, if you’re like me). It’s honestly just the most consistently good albums ever.

Melodrama by Lorde - One of the best pop albums ever and I will NEVER shut up about it!!! It tells such a cohesive narrative throughout the whole album, keeps these very fitting late night electronic pop beats (with the exception of the low point of Liability in which it’s just a heartbreaking piano melody) and was released at a point where more synthesized music and late night pop and partying was at its peak. A great example of how you can follow trends without sacrificing your sense of lyrical genius.

Voulez-Vous by ABBA - I just love ABBA and I don’t even think I need to say anything else except for their music led to Mamma Mia so…. everyone should love them????

The Stranger by Billy Joel - BILLYYYYYYY. Honestly this album is so underrated but Vienna alone could bring this into any top 5 list. He has a way of not making constant piano melodies annoying, like I listened to the whole thing and did not get sick of the piano. Billy Joel has just such a nostalgic feel to him.

My Personal 5 Favourite Albums Right Now

five seconds flat by Lizzy McAlpine - I’ve had this album on repeat since july and I don’t think my obsession is dying out anytime soon because lizzy mcalpine has suchhhhh a smooth, clear voice and her lyrics rip my heart out!!! it’s amazing!!! I actually had such an urge to gatekeep her in 2020 when her last album “give me a minute” came out but she’s too good to gatekeep tbh. still, I’m convinced nobody will love her like I love her. no one.

Wet Leg by Wet Leg - I know Harry Styles did a cover of one of their songs once but honestly it didn’t compare to the original. this band came out of nowhere and just has such a unique, fun style and I dig it!! It’s just very cool and laidback and “girl who doesn’t give two shits” kind of stuff

Wasteland, Baby! by Hozier - THIS IS SELF-EXPLANATORY. I fucking love Hozier, his lyrics are truly so poetic and I cry from the beauty of it

Punisher by Phoebe Bridgers - again, this album does a really good job of telling a cohesive story from start to finish. Is it a sad story? Absolutely. But it’s also really beautiful, and the classic hot girl depression music.

Coming Home by Leon Bridges - Mr. Leon Bridges truly doesn’t fuck around!! He’s a king when it comes to this genre and honestly River is such a gorgeous song

Also if anyone wants a song rec for a specific feeling or situation they can hop into my inbox because, if I do humbly say so myself, I’m fucking great at that

[spoonie-living]

[Image: a digitally-created “ink brush” painting featuring a tree bowed by the wind, petals flowing from its branches, on a beige backdrop with a bright red moon.]

5 Games to Inspire Calm Chiara Scotellaro, The Millennial Patient

Are you looking for an activity to help you achieve calmness in your day? Something that you can incorporate into your self-care routine which is always within reach?

One of my favourite methods of bringing calmness into my day is through games and apps, which are a readily accessible solution as I always have my phone within arms reach. I regularly use games and apps as part of my self care and mindfulness routine. Below the cut are 5 games that help me relax and bring me tranquility if I’ve been feeling stressed or restless.

[Image: a modern stylized landscape of blue mountains against a starry sky. “Monument Valley” is displayed across the top of the image, and a white figure in pointed hat and dress stands atop a pedestal.]

Monument Valley

Monument Valley is a beautifully designed atmospheric puzzle game developed by Ustwo Games. The gameplay consists of helping princess Ida through an Escheresque maze which shifts and morphs around her. And thanks to its beautiful artwork, playing Monument is like walking through my favourite drawings.

Puzzle games normally chew up my spoons, so the best part of this game is that the less I try to think of a solution, the more likely I am to solve the puzzle. Playing Monument Valley is more about clearing my mind and exploring. It’s perfect for when I’m tired but want to do something a bit more engaging than watch tv.

This is a great puzzle game if you have cognitive fatigue and a fun approach to mindfulness.

Monument Valley on iTunes Monument Valley on Google Play

[Image: a silhouette of a small, thin tree on uneven terrain, all black against a beige sky with a bright red moon peeking down from the top. “prune” is written between tree and moon.]

Prune

Prune is a pretty and wonderfully minimalistic game by Joel McDonald where you cultivate a tree to grow in certain directions so it can reach the light. You do this by pruning branches with a swipe of your finger; then you watch it grow in hopes it will flourish in the light of the sun.

I love this game because I love bonsai, but the real thing never lasts long in my care. This game is my pocket bonsai and my alternative to pottering in the garden for relaxation. Just like Monument Valley, it promotes exploration and helps clear my mind. There is no need for overthinking—if I just play and vary my approaches, the solution will come.

This game is perfect for when you just want a few minutes of quiet, and it’s ideal for waiting rooms at the doctor's office!

Prune on  iTunes Prune on Google Play

[Image: an undersea scape with schools of fish in the background. A diver is swimming downward and touching a reflection of themself in what appears to be the top of a (second) body of water. “Abzû” is displayed in thin letters at the top.]

Abzû

Abzû is described as an adventure art video game developed by Giant Squid Studios. However, for me, Abzû is more of an experience than a game.

In Abzû, you are a diver exploring the ocean and restoring life through the use of magical springs. I get to explore various underwater environments, swim with whales, ride a turtle, or just meditate on a rocky outcrop and watch the aquatic life swim around me. It’s quite short, and the puzzles may seem simple, but it just feels amazing to play. I only wish I could play the VR version next time.

This game really fills my need for new experiences when I’ve been housebound for too long. It’s the next best thing to visiting the aquarium and the closest thing to going diving as I can get at the moment. I just love love love this game!

Abzû on Steam

[Image: on a background of mountains and a night sky, a logo with a band of yellow at the top and four icons: a cross, a sword, a person, and a dollar sign. “Reigns” is displayed below this in gray, angular block letters.]

Reigns

Reigns is a text-based game developed by Devolver Digital in which you play the role of a medieval monarch. Gameplay is super simple and consists of storyline cards which ask you to decide between two choices. You make your decision by either swiping left or right (sound familiar? 😉). The choices you make will determine the fate of your monarchy as well as those you rule. You play through many reigns—some spanning decades, others barely lasting a day.

Unlike the other games in this list, the theme of this game isn't the calming element here, in fact, this game has a lot of dark humour in it. For me, the calming aspect here is the gameplay, it brings me calm through distraction. What I like most about Reigns is that gameplay is very short, your monarch's reign can often last only a minute or two. It also doesn't require much concentration or logic because there's no way of predicting the outcomes of your choices.

For me, Reigns is a brain fog friendly alternative to puzzle games and another great game to play in waiting rooms. I just swipe left or right and await the next twist in the story.

Reigns on  iTunes Reigns on Google Play Reigns on Steam

[Image: “Magic Piano” written in sky blue and black bubble letters against a background of a keyboard, clouds, and abstract green lights.]

Magic Piano

Magic Piano by Smule allows you to play your favourite piano music on your phone or tablet. Music is one of the most effective ways for me to find calmness and joy. And playing the music yourself, just like dancing or singing, elevates the whole experience. Magic Piano makes playing music accessible by showing me the notes to play.

Despite having no musical ability and limited dexterity in my fingers, I can still play along with my favourite songs on my tablet. I can also change the difficulty depending on the stiffness of my hands. Much like Guitar Hero, it allows me to live out my rockstar fantasies despite my complete lack of skill. My favourite thing to do at the end of the day is play Moonlight Sonata to slow things right down.

Word of warning with this game: I started experiencing vertigo a while ago, and the scrolling colours began to trigger headaches. I’ve had to stop playing it as a result. If you have similar problems, you might want to give this one a pass.

Magic Piano on  iTunes Magic Piano on Google Play

These games are a regular part of my wind-down time and have provided me with varied options to creating calm in my day. Just like music, a cup of tea, or a warm bath they help me transition from busyness to stillness. They provide me with just enough escapism to help me let go of the day's problems and get into a different mindscape, but are not so utterly engrossing that I lose hours to gameplay.  

If you have games or apps that help you achieve calmness, then please feel welcome to share your recommendations in the comments or via a reblog!

Chiara Scotellaro was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 2011 and has dedicated her time to helping others learn how to manage life with a chronic illness ever since. An experienced Mental Health peer worker, she has helped others in their recovery journeys by sharing her knowledge and experience on navigating life’s challenges with a chronic illness.

You can check out more of her work at her blog, The Millennial Patient, or follow her on Twitter @PatientGenY.

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on http://ift.tt/2iVxKPq

[gardencityvegans]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

https://www.thefullhelping.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/12/weekend_reading.jpg

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

[Read More ...] https://www.thefullhelping.com/weekend-reading-12-3-17/

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on http://ift.tt/2iVxKPq

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on http://ift.tt/2iVxKPq

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on http://ift.tt/2iVxKPq

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on http://ift.tt/2iVxKPq

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on

[oovitus]

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17

I’ve been thinking a lot this week about intuition. Merriam Webster defines it as “quick and ready insight,” “immediate apprehension or cognition,” and “the power or faculty of attaining to direct knowledge or cognition without evident rational thought and inference.” The gist, I think, is that it’s a kind of understanding that presents itself before rationalization kicks in.

Intuition has been on my mind in the context of my nutrition coaching work. In the last few weeks, many clients have expressed to me what other clients in the past have shared, too—that they have a gut feeling about something that’s going on with their bodies, which may or may not be getting validation from healthcare practitioners or clinical investigation.

I’m not a doctor, and it’s not my job to take guesses at the cause, but it is very much my job to listen, to take whatever physical manifestations are showing up seriously, and to assure my clients that, if they feel or sense that something is awry, then they’re probably right—even if the origins are multifaceted, psychosomatically mediated, or otherwise difficult to pinpoint. It’s also my job to help them find ease, peace, and nourishment with food, so that eating doesn’t become (or remain) a source of additional stress.

As I was working to gently assure my folks of their “quick and ready insight,” I got to thinking about how I relate to my own sense of intuition. I used to have faith in it—in my instincts, gut feelings, hunches—but I’ve been much less assured lately. Part of this may be the humility of growing a little older and realizing that one can be wrong, often, and that things are never really as black-and-white or self-evident as they might seem at first.

Part of it has to do with my anxiety, which is better these days, but still an ongoing challenge. It’s difficult to trust in one’s own quick and ready insights when paranoia, overthinking, and painful indecision over small choices are a part of everyday life.

Lately, though, I’ve received some small but significant reminders that I have a sense of intuition and it is trustworthy and sound. It may be more difficult for me to hear it than it is for some others—I’m an over-thinker by nature—but it’s there. And, when I tune in, it usually steers me toward honest and authentic choices, actions, and words.

I’m working to foster and connect more deeply with my intuition in daily meditation practice, in yoga class (closing my eyes while I’m practicing has been a big part of this), and I’m even hoping to pick a mantra or two that might serve as guideposts. I haven’t come up with anything yet, but if anyone has a suggestion, I’d welcome it. My intention isn’t to turn off intellect or ration so much as to understand that beneath my conscious thought is a force that can guide me honestly and wisely, and to take thanks for its safekeeping.

On that note, welcome to December! Can’t believe it’s here. Some wonderful recipe sightings this week, including great choices for vegan entertaining, and an interesting collection of article links. Enjoy.

Recipes

In spite of my cravings for all things warm and bready and soupy right now, I’m loving Lindsey’s crispy, textured, refreshing brussels sprouts, honeycrisp, and cabbage slaw with spicy almond butter sauce. What a perfect winter salad.

Hosting a holiday party? These hoisin glazed vegan meatballs are a perfect, protein-packed appetizer. I love the earthy base of walnuts and tempeh.

Another winter salad, this one featuring tender wedges of roasted kabocha, crispy fennel, creamy avocado, and sweet maple-glazed pecans. Yum.

I know what’ll I’ll be making to satisfy my next comfort food craving: Jeanine’s creamy white bean shells with broccoli. Bonus points for being wholesome as well as cozy and filling.

I’ve never tried butternut squash in a crumble, crisp, or pie, but I’m really intrigued by winter squash dessert recipes, and Tessa’s apple butternut squash crisp looks like an excellent place to start.

Reads

1. I know I’ve posted a lot of articles and essays on the theme of “I didn’t seek help for my eating disorder, because I didn’t think it was ‘serious’ enough to warrant treatment,” but I’ll keep doing it, because this message is so important. So many men and women suffer quietly with disordered eating because they don’t think they’re sick enough to seek help, or because they’ve internalized a socialized, media-reinforced image of what someone with an eating disorder looks like.

This article is a competitive runner’s reflection on coming to terms with the fact that she had the female athlete triad (amenorrhea, energy deficit, bone density loss), in spite of the fact that she could pass for “normal” or “healthy” even at the worst of her restrictive periods.

It’s a reminder that eating disorders can quietly wreak their havoc regardless of how a person presents outwardly. And, speaking of intuition, a powerful story of finally listening to an inner voice that was crying out for help and support.

2. An interesting interview that touches on how the public’s relationship with science is changing. The upshot is that scientists are coming to understand that they need to emerge from their proverbial “ivory tower,” engaging in open dialog with a public that no longer accepts their authority on faith.

3. Joel Kahn, a vegan cardiologist, elucidates new evidence linking mouthwash use to hypertension and possibly to an increased susceptibility to type II diabetes.

The correlation is to do with mouthwash’s interruption of oral production of nitric oxide; nitric oxide helps to increase blood flow and reduce the likelihood of blood clotting, which is beneficial for cardiac health and circulation. According to Kahn, you can increase nitric oxide production through careful chewing of food and avoidance of antiseptic mouthwash, unless it’s been prescribed for a short period of time by a medical professional.

4. Thanksgiving has come and gone, but I like Julia Belluz’s words about the importance of placing holiday meals into a reasonable perspective.

There’s a lot of alarmist messaging out there about holiday dining, which is natural, given the abundance of social gatherings at this time of year. But the truth is that a few holiday indulgences are perfectly fine, so long as healthful eating patterns are in place. Belluz interviews a few nutrition experts, including Marion Nestle, and their words affirm what dietetics students like me are taught all the time: it’s the big picture that counts.

5. Finally, The New York Times has republished a heartening and—I think—inspiring essay about the value of renewal (mapping restorative periods and rest onto the work day) as a means of working more productively and effectively.

Speaking of that, wishing you renewal and proper self-care as you head into the first full week of this busy month. I’ll be back tomorrow with a seasonal and crowd-pleasing salad recipe.

xo

The post Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 appeared first on The Full Helping.

Weekend Reading, 12.3.17 published first on