Hippie City Chick

NEW SITE ALERT!

2017-02-01T11:30:00.003-08:00

Come on over to my new site!

This blog is no longer being updated. I am in the process of transferring all the recipes to the latest and greatest new blog! Come check it out and tell me what you think! Sign up on the email list as there will be amazing new recipes and updates each week.

Thanks for your support!
Always with love,
Moksha

Foil Baked Halibut

2016-08-04T18:01:00.000-07:00

If you are like me, you may not be the biggest fan of fish. I want to love it, I really do. I keep trying! And then I keep not liking it as I had hoped for. Well, this recipe changed my mind! I think it could for you too!

I have been wanting to incorporate more wild caught fish into our lives. You know, best way to get more of those healthy omega-3 fatty acids. And for some variety in our diet. I'll never get on Master Chef not knowing how to cook fish!

My son has a fascination with seafood and requests it constantly. So, I decided to make a foil wrapped fish for a few reasons.

1. I don't know how to cook fish! At all.
2. No mess! You stick everything in parchment and foil and literally no clean up!
3. No fishy smells in the house from cooking it.

What a delicious surprise this was! I loved it! My son ate all of his, part of mine and part of his dads! And, my husband loved it. This recipe is now on my monthly list! So easy to vary up as well!

If you make this, please let me know how you liked it in the comments!

Dinner for 2 (Or 3 if you have a little one too.)

Ingredients:

2 healthy servings of fresh wild caught Halibut (no skin)
2 red potatoes thinly sliced
12 asparagus spears
2 garlic cloves diced
4 TBS of grass-fed butter
Pink Himalayan salt to taste
Pepper to taste
1/4 tsp dried Parsley

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degree.
Place 2 large sheets of foil or parchment on flat baking pan.
In a small pan, melt butter, garlic cloves and salt
Layer potatoes in the middle of foil
Layer asparagus on top of potatoes

Spoon half of butter over vegetables

Season with salt and pepper

Layer Halibut onto of seasoned veggies

Spoon remaining butter onto of fish

Add pepper and parsley to fish
Wrap all sides of foil around fish

Bake for 30 minutes or until internal temp is about 145 degrees and WALLAH.

So good you will forget to take a picture before devouring it all!

OOPS!

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Chocolate Oatmeal Cookies- Healthified

2016-06-24T14:30:00.001-07:00

I'm sure you have seen the 3 ingredient cookie recipe going around. Well, of course I had to try it and then make it my own with all the things I love. And guess what?

They are FANFREAKINGTASTIC!

Super moist, super healthy and super yummy. My kid loves them! My husband loves them! And I love them! Total hit!

My goal was to make something sweet and treat-like without adding ANY extra sugars. This was it! Look no further my friends. I did splurge on last batch and add Vegan Dark Chocolate chips. Which put them over the top!

Recipe makes about 1.5 dozen

Ingredients:

3 ripe bananas mashed
1 1/4 cup gf instant oats
1/4 cups shredded unsweetened coconut flakes
1/4 cup raisins
1 scoop or serving of vegan chocolate protein powder (I use Shakeology well, because it's the best!)
1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
*Optional-2 oz mini vegan chocolate chips (I use Enjoy Life)
*Optional-2 tbs natural peanut butter

Directions:

Heat oven to 350 degrees.
Mash bananas in large bowl.
Add oats, coconut, raisins, chocolate chips, protein powder and mix well.
Add coconut milk and any other options you desire like nuts, pb, or dried fruit.
*(The more ingredients you add, you may need to add more coconut milk.)
Scoop 1 large TBS on silpat matt cookie sheet.
Bake at 350 for about 12-15 minutes.

Remove from oven, let cool for 5 minutes and DEVOUR!

Refrigerate left over cookies in an air tight container for the rest of the week. These are a great treat, snack or even a quick breakfast bite!

ENJOY!

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Frozen yogurt dots

2016-05-24T10:59:00.001-07:00

I don't know about you, but desert has become a THING with my kid!

It's requested and thought about all the time. Sweets this and sweets that! We are bombarded with treats everywhere. Its at home, restaurants, schools, TV commercials, grocery check out stands. Total craziness. We had to eliminate deserts from our vocabulary Sunday - Thursday. No one gets desert in our house on these nights. For us, desert meant a piece of chocolate, or a piece of left over Easter treats. Minimal but still pure sugar that isn't needed. I don't want this habit started at 6 yrs old. It's a weekend thing only now. Special treats. So to try to help my plea, I have started making these frozen yogurt dots that my son now calls desert. LOL. Yes, they still have sugar, but not nearly as much as the usual choices. And because it's yogurt, I secretly feel a little better letting him have one after dinner. Go figure.

Super easy, super fast and a healthier option. Fun for summer! Every kid love ice cream like treats.

You can make these even cooler by adding a wooden candy stick before freezing, making them frozen yogurt pops. Or leave as is. Small little yumminess bites.

Makes 6 dots

Ingredients:

1/2 cup plain greek yogurt. If you choose, you can buy 1 5oz carton of a pre-made flavor. More sugar but minimal for 1 dot.
1 Tbs honey. (Only if you are not using pre-flavored yogurt.)
6 blueberries
2 Tbs granola of choice.
1 Tbs low sugar jam or jelly. (Again, only if you are not using pre-flavored yogurt.)

Equipment:

Silicon non stick mini muffin pan
Wooden candy sticks
1 sheet of cling wrap

Directions:

Mix yogurt and honey in small bowl.
Add tsp of yogurt mixture to 6 mini muffins
Add 1 spoon of granola and 1 blueberry in the middle of each yogurt filled muffin

Add remaining yogurt mixture on top of blueberries
Cover pan with cling wrap
If you are using candy stick, insert one candy stick through cling wrap into each muffin

Place in freezer for at least 2 hrs.
Remove from pan and devour!
Any remaining dots can be stored in a freezer container or plastic bag for a month.

ENJOY!

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Dill Pickles

2016-05-20T12:11:00.000-07:00

While doing my studies with the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, I started experimenting with fermenting my own foods.

Pickles of course were the families FAVORITE!

My 6 yr old LOVED them! My husband wanted me to start selling jars at Farmers Markets! You get where I am going.

Tasty!!

Better than any store bought pickle. Easy to make! Flavor to your personal taste. And best of all, so very healthy for you!

Why is this salty deliciousness good for you? Because fermented foods are high probiotic foods. Most of us would benefit tremendously by eating small amounts of fermented foods each day. Healing your gut is must for optimum health. Feeding the microbes in your gut (the good bacteria) can improve digestion, boost immunity and maybe, just maybe help you get leaner. Either way, health starts in your gut believe it or not. That is for another discussion all together, which I would LOVE to have.

Anywho, if you are a pickle lover like us, making your own is a must try!

Ingredients:

5-8 small pickling cucumbers or 4-6 small regular cucumbers
1 quart filtered, spring, or distilled water
2 tbsp Pink Himalayan salt (be generous)
1-2 garlic cloves, chopped
1-2 tsp dill seed
1/4 cup fresh dill or
1 tbsp dried dill leaf
1 Tsp whole peppercorns

Directions:

Soak cucumbers in ice water for an hour to enliven them.
Place leaves, garlic, and spices in the bottom of a quart jar.
Don't do this and add them to the top... They MUST be at the bottom and covered entirely in water. I learned the hard way! Stinky! LOL
Add the cucumbers into the jar, packing them in tightly. I have discovered whole cucumbers taste the best! Crispier and more flavor.
Dissolve salt in water and pour over the cucumbers. Like I mentioned, make sure the cucumbers are completely submerged in the water, add extra salt and water to cover them if they are not.
Leave at least 1 inch space between the top of the water and the top of the jar and cover loosely with a light kitchen towel or cheesecloth and secure with rubber band.
Leave on the counter in a cool place for 3-7 days. Checking daily. The liquid will begin to get cloudy and slightly bubbly.
When pickles reach desired taste, cover and refrigerate.

ENJOY!

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April Special

2016-04-08T11:59:00.000-07:00

HEY THERE!

A little late in the game but I decided to be better and regularly communicating with everyone about what the monthly specials and sales are in my fitness world as well as what groups I’m running so you know there’s always something happening that can help you get to your goals.

I figured this would be PERFECT place, for those who are not part of my health and fitness email list yet, to give you this info. So, without further ado,

Here is what's going on in APRIL!

22 Minute Hard Corpse — The brand new program by the legendary trainer Tony Horton. My current "Soul" program! Loving this one! It is a challenging, but simple-to-follow workout program inspired by training techniques used by the military. Each workout is a quick—and intense—calorie-blasting drill designed to get you “Boot camp fit” in just 8 weeks. You just show up, keep up, and get in shape! We all have 22 minutes to spare right? You can get the specially priced challenge pack two ways:

With Shakeology HERE
With Beachbody Performance Preworkout & Recovery (amazing and will really increase your stamina and results) HERE

Masters Hammer & Chisel – A fun killer new program! Weights focused with alternating days working with Autumn Calabrese (21 day fix) and Sagi Kalev (Body Beast). This program uses the 21 day fix containers and portion system (comes with a set of containers) and is a 60 day program. These are intermediate to advanced workouts but feature a modifier in each workout.

You can get the specially priced challenge pack two ways:
With Shakeology HERE
With Beachbody Performance Preworkout & Recovery HERE

Another great deal this month –

The Club Challenge Pack. The Club packages each include 90 days of Beachbody on Demand which gives you access to dozens of full workout programs so you can choose from any of these that fit your goal (drop me an email and I’ll help you determine what is a fit for you) plus a number of supplement options to choose from at a discounted package price:

CLUB + a full month of Shakeology HERE
CLUB Kickstart includes Shakeology and the awesome 3-day cleanse program “3 Day Refresh” (I’ve lost 5-9 lbs each time I do it!) HERE
CLUB Performance – including Pre-workout and Recovery HERE
*Or you can try 30 days of the Club/Beachbody on Demand for free!! HERE

Lastly, the 21-day detox program The Ultimate Reset is on sale this month with Shakeology HERE .

This is MY FAVORITE guide to shed the unwanted bloat and feel better! I love this program and can’t say enough about it! It is a more in depth cleanse program. It’s a bigger commitment but it’s a wonderful break for your body and you still get to eat a lot of great food. In fact I have incorporated many of the recipes into my families diet to this day.

MONTHLY CHALLENGE GROUPS

For those who are really committed to their weight loss and want a long term plan, my 30 day Weight Loss Support group starts on April 25^th. This is for clients who will commit to a workout program and Shakeology for at least 30 days. This month’s group will focus on 22 Minutes Hard Corps, Masters Hammer & Chisel, but also 21 Day Fixers (for more beginner to intermediate levels who want great results but need to work up to MHC.)

Also if you are at all interested in learning what I do as a coach, and how I am able to run my coaching business from home, my team and I have an online “sneak peek” this month where we go in depth about what we do and will help you determine if it’s something for you. Send me an email back so we can connect on facebbok and I’ll invite you (April 18th).

Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me if you have any questions about your own goals, or need help with a Beachbody program you already own. I am your coach and I’m here for you regardless of if you purchase anything. But I can’t help if we don’t chat. I’d love to hear from you! I’d also love to connect on FB through my personal page or you can follow me at The Hippie City Chick on Facebook.

Here’s to a great spring! Health and happiness to you all!

All the best,

Moksha

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Chocolate Chip Oatmeal Muffins

2016-03-10T07:47:00.000-08:00

Today at my sons school, it is "Teacher appreciation breakfast" day. And being the over achiever MOM that I am, I had to make something instead of save tons of time and buy something. LOL! At least we have extra goodies for us now. YUM!

This recipe came from my friend Domenica Morello-Cresta AKA project mama. You rule mama!!! I revised it just a touch. These scrumptious muffins are perfect with some tea or coffee for breakfast, for snacking, or even a healthier desert choice. They are chock full of fiber and antioxidants, (I keep telling myself this as I eat them!) and then a lil bit of refined sugar to splurge.

This recipe is definitely worth a share! Plus too many friends are asking for it.

ENJOY!

INGREDIENTS:

1 1/2 cups oats old fashion
1 cup of white flour
1 & 2/3 cups whole wheat flour
2/3 cup sugar
1 oz of brown sugar
4 tsp baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 eggs, beaten
1 1/2 cups whole milk or whole coconut milk
1/2 cup melted coconut oil
1 tsp vanilla
6 ounces chocolate chips

DIRECTIONS:

Combine the dry ingredients in a large bowl. Stir to blend. In a separate small bowl, mix the eggs, milk, vanilla and oil.

Stir the wet mixture into the dry mixture until moistened. Add the chocolate chips and blend thorough.

Fill lined muffin cups full with batter. Bake at 400 degrees for 16-18 minutes, or until tops are light golden.

Makes approximately 16 muffins.

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Being the only one...

2016-03-08T14:54:00.001-08:00

My son has been so amazing with the obstacle of cutting out all artificial food dye from his diet. This is no easy task! It's in everything! At school, when they hand out something for special occasions like gold fish for Dr Seuss Day, or fruit loops for 100th day of school, or donuts and cupcakes for someones birthday. He will not eat them JUST incase they have the "bad food dye". At Birthday parties he will not eat cake if it is colored. He will either eat around it or I will bring something for him per his request. This is now all on his own without me reminding or stopping him.

I think his body knows it's no good and he's much better off without it. I have to tell you, it's not easy being the ONLY kid at school or even with friends being on this diet of no artificial food dye. But he's been a CHAMP! I'm so proud of my lil 6 yr old!

Today I gave him the gold fish. They have natural food coloring and he was so happy! I am amazed by him and his ability to stick with this change even when I am not there. I can see that he is proud of himself as well.

My strong willed kid!

- PB with coconut, banana and dried cranberries on a sourdough star (I cover this with wax paper before I close the box so it doesn't smudge everywhere)
- Blueberries
- Dye free Goldfish
- His favorite greens, Seaweed
- Banana chips

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Gluten Free BanAppBerry muffins

2016-02-16T14:19:00.000-08:00

When you discover a recipe that is SUPER easy to make, totally healthy, with no sugar added, and that the whole family loves... YOU SHARE IT!

These muffins were inspired by Autumn Calabrese cookbook, "Fixate". I love this book btw, so many awesome recipes! You can check out and purchase the book here.

I still can't get over that they are gluten free,sugar free and YUMMY! That my 6 yr old & husband like them so much one batch is gone in 2 days. But...… they are. And you need to try these!

Perfect for breakfast, snacking or desert. You choose!

Ingredients:

2 large eggs, lightly beaten
2 mashed medium ripe bananas
1 Tbsp grass-fed butter, melted
1 tsp vanilla
1 1/2 cups almond flower
3/4 Tsp baking soda
1 dash pink salt
1 dash turmeric powder
1/2 tsp cinnamon
3/4 cup chopped apple
3/4 cup blueberries

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
Prepare 9 muffin cups, coat with butter or spray.
Combine eggs, banana, vanilla and melted butter in small bowl; mix well.
Combine flour, baking soda, turmeric, cinnamon, salt in a medium bowl; mix well.
Add egg mixture to meal mixture;mix until blended.
Add apples and blueberry and mix until blended.
Divide batter evenly between the 9 muffin cups.
Back 18-20 minutes, or until golden brown and a toothpick inserted into center comes out clean.

Let cool for about 5 minutes and ENJOY!

You can store these in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Yummy warm or cold. I hope you enjoy them as much as we do! Let me know when you do!

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Lunchbox heaven

2016-02-03T11:22:00.001-08:00

Monday through Friday I take a picture of what I make my Kindergartener for lunch. I started doing this for me, to see what works, what he likes and dislikes. Once I started sharing the lunches I got a lot of questions from other parents for help and ideas on what to pack their kids for lunch. Keep them on the healthy trail. Keep them eating.

I'm not going to lie. It takes effort. But our kids are worth it right? Fortunately I do not have a picky eater. I have always just made him what I make for myself. I have never made separate meals for him. Luckily he will try anything. If he doesn't like it, I will not make him eat it. This has made sure meal time is never a fight. And his palate has grown. Forget about kids meals he shares my meal at restaurants no matter what it is. He actually ENJOYS having a big fat salad for dinner. He LOVES stinky delicious cheeses, trying new veggies and fruits that he's never seen from the grocery store. His favorite meal is Bratwurst, roasted Broccoli with brown rice. I am truly lucky I know. He also loves to watch Chopped and Master Chef. Which makes my heart happy! My little foodie in the making.

However, I am a true believer that if you start out feeding them healthy, they will enjoy healthy foods. If you start out giving them hot dogs and mac and cheese, while you eat your veggies and fish, well, that's what their taste buds will gravitate to. Not that we don't enjoy some Mac and cheese now an again. I mean come on! We live it up to and don't restrict anything. Well, food dye! We do restrict all food dye. But that's another post.

I also believe that variety is the spice of life. Which may have bit me in the butt a little? Now, if I only have 2 things on his plate for any meal he will ask me, "M-o-m.... Is this it? I want a side". So, you know, the expectations are now already set in his head. Just like if he was only feed a certain type of food his whole life. But again, I know I'm so very lucky that he is not a picky eater.

Here are a few of our favorite lunches. The lunchbox is the bomb! Planet Box is Eco friendly, and lives up to the price tag! It's the best one out there by far in my opinion. (I really need to get a commission for referrals!) :)

I hope you enjoy and find some ideas that your kids will like. With a little effort and time, we all can keep our kids on the healthy trail at school.

For daily food inspiration, follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Pinterest.

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No Bake Power Bites

2016-01-24T15:55:00.002-08:00

Do you have a snack that totally saves you? That curbs your sweet tooth and give you the energy to keep going. Totally Satisfies you? Well, this is it for me! No Bake EASY PEASY power bites. My family has requested I make these each week. No more late night snacking on cheese, crackers or cookies. No more grabbing a packaged bar for a snack.

THIS, just this!

Have I ever steered you wrong? Trust me, you won't be sorry!

Total Time: 15 min
Prep Time: 15 min.
Cooking Time: None
Makes about 10 servings, 1 each

Ingredients:

½ cup finely chopped raw mixed nuts
½ cup Chocolate Vegan Shakeology
½ cup organic old-fashioned rolled oats
½ cup all-natural creamy peanut butter
1 Tbs maca powder
3 Tbs shredded unsweetened coconut
3 Tbs raw honey

*I use Vegan Chocolate Shakeology because I have found this is the ONE and ONLY for me. All the good stuff my body needs and NO artificial junk. However, you can give it a try with other protein powders. I stand by this recipes with the ingredients given only as I know the goodness. If you want to give Shakeogoly a try, check it out here. I highly recommend having it daily. *

Preparation:

1. Place nut in large baggy and smash until they are finely chopped.

2. Combine nuts, Shakeology, maca, coconut and oats in a medium bowl; mix well.

3. Add pb and honey; mix well with a rubber spatula or just get your clean hands dirty!

4. Roll in balls about the size of a ping pong ball.

*If you need more moist to mix into balls, add a little more pb.

Refrigerate covered up to 1 week.

ENJOY! These are amazeballs!!

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Ingredients:

Artificial food dye

2015-12-18T13:39:00.000-08:00

Artificial food dye, how I despise you.

Did you know these dyes are created synthetically in several ways. Some dyes are created by burning coal tar and others are derived from petroleum byproducts like tartrazine and erythrosine!

Back in 2010, the European Union passed a law that requiring companies to post a notice on each dyed product sold in Europe. The notice states, “May have an adverse effect on activity and attention in children.”!

In Britain, Fanta orange soda is dyed with pumpkin and carrot extract while the U.S. version is dyed with Red 40 and Yellow 6.

Kellogg Strawberry NutriGrain bars are colored with Red 40, Yellow 6 and Blue 1 in the U.S., but with beetroot, annatto and paprika extract in the UK. These are just a couple examples.

America needs to wake up to this. Food Dyes have been linked to Cancer, ADHD, Allergies and Behavior. There is just no need for this junk in our food.

I understand this is something that has been debated back and forth for many years. However you have to trust what you know and what has worked for you. There was enough evidence for me via holistic and scientific studios to experiment with this.

Has anyone else out there cut artificial food dye out of their children diet too? I would LOVE to hear from you and your experiences with it.

MESSAGE ME

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Coco Loco Peanut Butter Chia Pudding

2015-10-28T10:54:00.003-07:00

I know... I've been away from the blog as of late. But just know I have been cooking up a storm! I have MANY new recipes to share! Here is one of my favorite new ones!

Coconut Chocolate Peanut Butter Chia!

Need something new and refreshing to get you going in the morning? Or how about a pick me up snack full of antioxidants, fiber, protein, and goodness? Or maybe, just maybe a healthy desert you can feel guiltless about eating?

This will do the trick!

Decadent dark chocolate, creamy peanut butter, super-food Chia seeds and refreshing coconut milk! Do I have your attention yet?

Heaven in a jar yes it is!

Ingredients:

1 tbs honey
3 tbs creamy organic peanut butter
1 cup unsweetened coconut milk
1 cup canned coconut milk
1/2 cup chia seeds
2 tbs mini dark chocolate chips
2 tbs unsweetened coconut flakes

Directions:

1. Combine honey and peanut butter in large mixing bowl. Whisk well to combine. Pour both coconut milks into bowl and whisk to combine. Fold in chia seeds and chocolate chips.
2. Slowly pour mixture into 4 to 6 sealable jars. Sprinkle coconut flakes on top. Chill in the refrigerator overnight to set. (Chia seeds will absorb the milk, thicken, and expand creating a creamy pudding texture.)
3. Serve chilled and enjoy!

I am in love with this one!

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Oatmeal Banana Peanut Butter Cookies

2015-08-24T15:46:00.002-07:00

Who doesn't LOVE cookies?

Who doesn't love feeling guiltless when eating cookies? I needed to Mokshafy a recipe to keep me on track and to let my son eat cookies without all the sugar. We both have a major sweet tooth. It can put us in a sugary situation.

This recipe did just that. I won't feel bad sneaking one of these into his lunches for school, or eating one in the middle of the day. Healthy Cookies! For real!

INGREDIENTS
3 bananas, ripe
1⁄3cup Coconut oil
2.25 cups quick cooking oats
1⁄2cup chocolate chips
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
2 Tbs Honey
3 Heaping Tbs of peanut butter

DIRECTIONS
Preheat oven to 350 degrees.
In a large mixing bowl, mash bananas with a fork until no longer lumpy. If bananas aren't very ripe, a hand mixer may be used. Stir in oil, oats, chocolate chips, peanut butter and vanilla.
Lightly grease a cookie sheet or use a silpat.
For each cookie, spoon about 2 tablespoons of cookie mixture (or I like to use an ice cream scooper) onto the cookie sheet.

Bake for 16-20 minutes.
**IF batter seems a little dry, add dashes of milk to moisten.

You can omit the chocolate chips to make them even healthier and add cinnamon, raisins or chopped pecans! Omitting the peanut butter all together is also a delish version! I just happen to have a love affair with peanut butter.

Enjoy and stay healthy my friends!

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Apple Cider Vinegar For Allergy Relief

2015-07-22T11:10:00.001-07:00

Allergy relief! Who doesn’t have allergies?

I have the annoying hay fever type of allergies where my ears itch, eyes water and nose becomes runny. They are year round as I am highly sensitive to dust. And living in California, desert-city-mountain life, I can’t get away from dust. I do get some relief using nasal spray and an antihistamine but I really hate using these every day. I have even tried getting allergy shots, for 2 years straight, with no help what so ever. I know the medications are not good for me. I watch my husband take them daily as well and I cringe not knowing what we are doing to ourselves long term. I am a firm believer that taking any medication long term will has some side affects we will endure.

So the research began. I have been reading that ACV, Apple Cider Vinegar, can help with seasonal allergies. The Internet is exploding with articles about it. So, why not try it? I started adding 1 TBS of ACV in my morning lemon and pink salt water. I already took it when I had stomach issues. I already knew it was some powerful stuff! (Why lemon water with Pink Himalayan salt?)

I didn’t take notice for the 1^st month I was doing this because I just didn’t really have allergies all of a sudden. I forgot about them. I felt good. I didn’t need my meds at all. (Yeah I know that should have been the AH HAH moment!) However, we went on vacation and I stopped doing my daily ACV - lemon water routine before breakfast. Within days I was waking up with ears itching, nose running and eyes red. Making those weird noises with my throat and wiggling my ears to try to stop the itch. It’s so annoying not only to me but others around me! My eyes were blood shot and swollen and my nose was just constantly runny and getting raw from blowing it often. It really blows! (Pun intended)

Once we returned home, I started up with my routine once again. THE DAY I started using ACV again, my ears had relief almost immediately. My allergies are not gone from using the almighty ACV, however I don’t have to use my meds every day, I am also healthier all around!

Not only am I getting allergy relief, ACV helps treat numerous ailments! Such as:

• Sinus infections

• Acne

• Flu

• Chronic fatigue

• Candida

• Acid reflux

• Sore throat

• Contact dermatitis

• Arthritis

• Gout

No matter what condition you’re treating with ACV, you will reap the benefits of its side effects.

A huge bonus is it’s a metabolism booster! It can help break down fat and lose pounds. It also gives your skin a healthy glow. I’m down to take it for this alone!

Lets get down to the science. How does fermented Apple cider help allergies? Really?

Well, an allergic person’s body mistakenly releases histamine to fight off the intruding particles. The histamine circulating through the body signals the mucus membranes to produce all the unwanted symptoms, that go hand in hand with allergies.

Chemical and natural antihistamines, like Allegra and ACV, help prevent the production and release of histamines. This can give you the relief you need! Preventing allergy symptoms like:

• Sneezing

• Nasal congestion and runniness

• Itchy, red, swollen and/or watery eyes

• Itchy sensation of the nose, ears, lips, mouth, and/or throat

• Headache

• Nosebleed

• Cough

• Asthma

Because Apple cider vinegar contains a number of beneficial compounds including acetic and malic acid, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and more. These nutrients balance the body’s natural pH to prevent illness and to relieve such issues as allergies and other seasonal disorders. The nutrients it contains also boost the immune system. The wonderful side affects of taking ACV!

If you want to try using ACV for allergies or any other health benefits, you will want to get organic vinegar with the “mother” in it. Look for the cloudy substance in the vinegar at the bottom. You want that! The mother contains all the added nutrients. Braggs is my favorite brand.

If you are new to ACV, try adding just a tsp in your water to start. If you can’t handle the taste, add some honey to help. You grow accustomed to the harsh taste. Once you can handle it, add a TBS in water each morning before breakfast AS WELL AS before each meal. You will really notice some benefits using it this often.

Let me know if you find relief in using this wonderful ingredient like I have.

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The 2 best workouts in 1

2015-07-14T12:44:00.000-07:00

P90X3 and Focus T25 Hybrid Schedule.

Last year, these 2 programs got me in the best shape of my life! I had never felt so confident, fit and sure of myself. I felt like I could accomplish anything. Then....... I fractured my ankle.

Now that I am DONE gaining weight, loosing muscle and feeling sorry for myself I created this 8 week hybrid schedule that will get me back to my happy place. Fit, lean and strong.

These 2 programs have always been my favorites. I have tried many and I have loved many but I have NEVER had results or felt like any others were my soul programs. But this.... THIS IS IT!

This is true love.

P90x + T25 + Shakeology = LOVE

I'm ready to be the best version of myself again!

It's never too late to join me! Get these programs NOW!

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Something Positive

2015-07-08T14:58:00.002-07:00

~Something positive~

Everyday there is always SOMETHING positive that happens you. We usually forget the small, wonderful things and remember the negative in its place. Why not change that? Let's start writing down at least one positive thing that happens to you each day!

I will start...

I had a lot of positive things happen today. But my favorite thing was this. My son who is 5 1/2 wrote me a love note for no reason at all. he surprised me with it. It said:

"I Love You Mom. You Are My Heart."

Nothing can take away my happiness today! NOTHING!

Best Love Note Ever!

*Share something positive that happened to you today!*

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The Power of Sunflower Seeds

2015-05-21T16:50:00.000-07:00

These salty-crunchy babies are my favorite snack right now.

Sunflower seeds!

The Power of Sunflower!

Did you know that just a 1/4 cup of seeds gives you half of your daily vitamin E, which of course keeps your heart healthy, your skin and hair looking great, and fights infection throughout the entire body by neutralizing free radicals.

They also are known to reduce the symptoms of asthma, osteoarthritis, and rheumatoid arthritis, as well as the risk of complications due to diabetes. WELL ALRIGHT ALRIGHT! GIMME SOME OF THOSE!

And to top them off, because they are full of phytosterols, they also reduce high cholesterol levels, build up the immune system and decrease risk of certain cancers. TRIPLE SCORE!

I love having them straight up, but adding a teaspoon or so into my salads brings the salad to a new level.

YUM! Eat up friends!

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Pink Himalayan Salt

2015-05-13T17:07:00.002-07:00

Hi, My name is Moksha, and I am a saltaholic. For real!

I always have been.

I love salt and I crave it. Sometimes, I need to just take a few crystals and eat them. It relieves my craving for salty, carb ridden food. I'm telling you this because I ONLY do this with Pink Himalayan salt. Nothing else! Well, unless i'm eating pretzels...... I do it with bad pretzel salt too.

Pink salt is it is NOT your average table salt! It has not been refined like table salt. In fact, it's in your best interest to get rid of regular table salt from your home and diet all together. Sodium Chloride, AKA table salt, is a super refined, processed "salt" that has no nutrients. It's just bad for you.

Pink Himalayan salt on the other hand has 80 + minerals and elements our body needs. It's a SUPER SALT! Creating an electrolyte balance in your body.

This super salt:

-INCREASES hydration instead of depriving you from it.
-Regulates water content both inside and outside of cells.
-Has a balance pH (alkaline/acidity) and helps to reduce acid reflux.
-Prevents muscle cramping. (This is a real help for me. I get calf cramps in the middle of the night.)
-Aids in proper metabolism functioning.
-Helps strengthen bones.
-Lowers blood pressure.
-Helps the intestines absorb nutrients.
-Prevent goiters.
-Improves circulation.
-Dissolves and eliminates sediment to remove toxins.

Now, i'm not telling you to just eat salt like I do once in a while. It's not healthy to have too much of anything. But I am telling you to make the switch to Pink Salt and remove the refined table salt from your diet where possible.

The good news is, you can buy Pink salt almost everywhere now. Even Wallmart, Target, Bed Bath and Beyon, Home Good Store, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, Ralphs, Vons, Gelsons, Pavillions.... the list goes on. Just keep an eye out for it. And stock up!

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Butternut Squash Soup

2015-02-04T10:54:00.003-08:00

This is the soup I make EVERY Christmas and give away as gifts. It's that good. The ingredients are in season during this chilly time, it stores well in the freezer and it is delicious. I buy cute glass jars and wrap them with bows. Everyone loves it. Including myself. Giving presents you make with your heart is makes me happy. And this soup, makes everyone happy!

The time it takes to make this soup is worth it.

Healthy, Clean and DELISH!

Winter is the best time to make this soup. Butternut squash is in season and in every market. Remember to always buy organic when possible. You are worth it!

INGREDIENTS:

3 Tbs Coconut oil
2 Tbs Balsamic vinegar
2 Butternut squashes, about 3 lbs total. Cut in half and seeded.
1-2 large granny smith apples halves and cored
2 yellow onions, cut into quarters
6 cups chicken stock
1/4 tsp ground nutmeg
Pink himalayan salt and cracked pepper to taste
1/2 cup half and half OR plain full fat yogurt
1.5 Tbs Grass-fed Butter

DIRECTIONS:
Preheat oven to 425 F.
Line a rimmed baking sheet with foil or a silicone matt.
In a small bowl, mix oil and vinegar. Brush the cut sides of the squash, apples and onions with mixture.

Place squash and apples cut side down and the onions on baking sheet.

Bake, turning everything at least twice, until tender and light brown. About 30 minutes for the apples and 45-50 minutes for the veggies.

Transfer everything to a cutting board and let it cool to the touch.

Scoop out flesh from squash and discard the peel. Chop the apples and onions.

Transfer everything to a large sauce pan and add the chicken broth and nutmeg.

Over medium-high heat, bring ingredients to a boil and reduce to simmer on medium-low. Simmer for about 30 minutes until VERY soft and tender.
Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
Once cooled, place ingredients in a blender and puree the soup in batches until smooth.
Return puree to saucepan and stir in the half and half.
Season with pink salt and cracked pepper.
Add grass-fed butter.
Heat back up to on medium.

*This soup can be stored in the fridge for about 2 days and in the freezer for about 3 months.

It's heavenly!

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Deviled Eggs

2015-01-23T14:29:00.003-08:00

Deviled Eggs! They are the perfect snack!

For me, these babies are the perfect pre and post workout food. Hard-boiled eggs in general make a quick snack if you are in a hurry. Power cook half a dozen Sunday night and you are set for the week. Or, they are great protein in your salads for lunch instead of meats.

Eggs are the "good fats" your body needs to keep your heart healthy. So as long as you don't fill these with g grotty mayo you are golden! Thankfully I am not a fan of mayo so this recipe works for my taste buds and my belly.

Ingredients:

2 hard boiled eggs peeled and slices in half
2 tsp Dijon mustard
dash of Pink Himalayan salt
dash of garlic powder (not garlic salt)
dash of cracked pepper
sprinkles of paprika

Directions:

Remove yolks from egg whites. Place in small bowl with dijon, salt, pepper and garlic powder. Mash until smooth. Place a scoop back into each egg white half. Sprinkle with Paprika per your liking.

These are quick and easy. I always have the ingredients on hand, and they add a little kick rather than having plain hard boiled eggs. Time to get my workout in!

ENJOY!

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Lip Exfoliator

2015-01-17T14:55:00.001-08:00

I Don't know about you but my lips are crazy dry during this time of year. With the cold outside, dry heat inside. I can't seem to keep them from hurting. I love this lip exfoliator because...

It's all organic
It's made with edible ingredients
It's yummy

It gives you back soft lips!

Ingredients:

1 pt Brown Sugar
1 pt Extra Virgin Coconut Oil
1 pt Creamed Honey

(regular honey would work just as well)

Directions:

Mix all 3 ingredients together.
Rub softly onto lips for about 30 seconds. Even corners.
Let it sit for another minute soaking in a moisturizing.
Rub off damp wet towel.

BAM! Nice soft kissable lips.

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Red Onions

2015-01-08T23:47:00.000-08:00

WHY OH WHY DO ONIONS MAKE ME CRY?

I have never been a raw onion lover. Maybe it’s because my eyes are so sensitive to everything that the slightest smell of a raw onion makes my eyes tear.

I deal with it though and get puffy eyes anyways because I use onions to cook with often. And I am enjoying raw red onions more and more these days. They are packed with good stuff!

Full of vitamins C and B6, iron, folate, and potassium and most importantly amazing phytochemicals. They are a super food along with garlic! They are an anti-allergic, anti-histaminic, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant, rolled into 1 potent smelly ball.

YUMMAY!

So, why do these amazing super veg make your eyes BURN and tear so bad as soon as you cut into them? Well, I learned that when you cut into an onion, you’re breaking open microscopic cells filled with enzymes that turn into volatile gasses when cut. This causes a chemical reaction similar to the chemicals used in tear gas. WOH right? When the fumes reach the eye glands, your eyes begin to create tears trying to dilute and flush the chemical from your eyes. AMAZING FOOD!

I don’t know about you but, but it takes my eyes at the least an hour or more to recover after cutting onions! And really there is nothing I have found that help with the fumes onions produce 100%. But, these small tricks give a tiny bit of relief.

By using a sharp knife, less of the enzymes are released into the air.

Cut onions in cold water.

Cut the root last!! The root has a higher concentration of enzymes.

Chill or freeze onions. This minimizes the amount of gas released.

Light a match before you start chopping. The sulfur disables the compounds in onions that make your eyes water.

Use a food processor.

Wear kitchen goggles to protect your eyes. (LOL! Yeah right. If you do this, you must send me a picture! :) )

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Sweet Potatoes

2015-01-07T19:00:00.000-08:00

Sweet potatoes are one of my favorite side dishes to make! I enjoy roasting them best. I like them thin and with a bit of crunch.

My favorite recipe is to roast thin fry like slices at 425 degrees in coconut or olive oil with some Pink Himalayan Salt and Cracked Pepper for about 45 minutes. Stirring gently twice. They come out NICE and soft with a crunch and brown edges!

OMG SO GOOD!

This is by far definitely one of my favorite veg.

Even though it’s a high carb veg I make them often. They are are extremely beneficial to your body. Clean eats!

They are high in vitamin B6.
They are a good source of vitamin C which helps produces collagen which helps maintain skin’s youthful elasticity, and is es essential o helping us cope with stress.
They contain Vitamin D.
They contain iron.
They are a good source of magnesium which is the relaxation and anti-stress mineral.
They are a source of potassium.
They are low glycemic index! Meaning their natural sugars are slowly released into the bloodstream, helping to ensure a balanced and regular source of energy, without the blood sugar spikes linked to fatigue and weight gain.

And they are just sweet and tasty!

Good stuff give them a try!

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Hummus, Avocado & Tomato Toast

2015-01-06T17:27:00.000-08:00

Sourdough Toast! What could make Sourdough Toast EVEN BETTER? Adding Humus, Avocado and Tomatoes to it. So delicious and such a great breakfast or snack. All the right healthy fats and carbs to get you going.

Hummus, Avocado & Tomato Toast

INGREDIENTS:

1 piece of sourdough bread toasted
1 tbs hummus
Drizzle of lemon over hummus
1/4 of an avocado
3 cherry tomatoes

Avocado has Healthy fats, Protein, Vitamins and minerals, and Dietary fiber

Hummus also has Healthy fats, Protein, and Vitamins and minerals

Sourdough Bread has has a lower glycemic index and the protein gluten has been broken down into amino acids so it's a little less harsh on your belly than wheat or white bread, meaning it's easier to digest. (Plus it tastes better. :)

Tomatoes have Vitamins galore, Potassium, Fiber and Antioxidants.

It's a winning combo in my book.

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