A Fresh Perspective for Spring

The cold weather is finally on the way out!!  I am so ready for all the wonderful things that come with warmer weather. I wore a pair of shorts to the gym the other day and caught my reflection in the glass door as I was going inside...I can definitely use some sunshine!

To be honest, I find it very difficult to eat well in the cold weather. I crave heavy, sweet things and a lot of dairy. It's also difficult to get motivated to go outside and be active, so I spend too much time inside (which leads to more eating).

Spring officially starts in exactly 8 days. This is a perfect time to take stock of your daily habits, and consider some changes that may make the warmer months more enjoyable (or at least allow you to fit back into your cute shorts!).

Sometimes, the best approach is simply "Back to Basics." Remember these simple rules for healthy living, and try to incorporate them into your daily habits:

1. Drink plenty of water throughout the entire day. Starting your morning with a glass of ice water is a great way to establish this routine. Complete hydration is essential for flushing unwanted yuckies out of your body. If you're feeling bloated and sluggish, drinking more water will give quick results.

2. Incorporate vegetables into every meal. Eating more vegetables will fill your body with all the nutrients it needs, including fiber. This will help calm cravings, flush out your digestive system, support your immune system, and improve your gut health. (See below for my simple and yummy veggie soup recipe--an easy and delicious way to get plenty of vegetables every day.)

3. Move your body every day.  Even if you're not a fitness nut, exercise is essential for every aspect of your health (and can motivate you to eat healthier throughout the day). Get some sort of exercise every single day--walk, run, bike, vacuum, do jumping jacks, lift weights, play basketball...whatever sounds fun!

4. Cut back on processed foods, and eat more whole foods. Many experts point to processed/manufactured foods as the primary health concern of Americans. Processed foods are basically anything made in a factory, and contain refined ingredients like white flour, sugar, and artificial colors and flavors. Focus on whole foods that resemble the way they were picked off the plant (vegetables, fruits, beans, nuts, seeds, etc.).

Veggie Soup

1 large can of San Marzano tomatoes (whole, peeled)
3-5 stalks of celery (the inside, leafy pieces work well in soup)
3-4 carrots
1-2 onions
1 zucchini (green squash)
1-3 cloves garlic
Water
Chicken base, or vegetable bouillon cube for flavor
Red wine, if desired
Parmesan cheese, if desired
Salt
Pepper
(I also like to use Montreal Steak seasoning)

Chop up all the veggies (except the tomatoes) and saute them in a little bit of olive oil with some salt until they are tender. Add the entire can of tomatoes (including sauce), about a liter of water, and the bouillon or chicken base. I also like to add about 1 cup of red wine--this really enhances the flavor. Allow to simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes. Turn off the heat, and blend with an immersion blender (or transfer to a regular blender). Taste, and adjust seasoning. Finish with a couple tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese.

This soup lasts for about 5 days in the frig without any deterioration in taste or texture.  It's really easy to make and really delicious!