Auyrveda Nourish Note

Preparing for Spring

28/8/2019

Spring’s arrival
stirs a sense of ‘waking up’
as the energy moves
upwards and outwards...

With everything flourishing around us, there is a renewed feeling of positivity and celebration as we prepare for spring. Ayurveda refers to seasonal routine as ‘Ritucharya’ - ritu means ‘season’ and ‘charya' means to move with or to follow.

Adjusting our lifestyle and diet is recommended to keep us in flow with nature, adapting to the external and internal changes that are taking place at the junction point between the old and new.

As the sunnier days start to melt away the colder conditions, the same is happening within us. Kapha liquifies and begins to dry whilst outside the flowers start to open and release their pollen. You may experience increased mucus, spring colds and allergies which often appear with this clearing out of fluid. What we observe outside in nature is also mirrored within. This is the time to shed the accumulated ‘earth and water’ qualities of Kapha - damp, wet and heavy which tend to build during winter.

What you can do to stay in tune with spring:

Favour a diet that is lighter, drier and less oily. Avoid too much heavy and cold food such as ice cream and cheese. Reduce sweet, salty and sour tastes as they aggravate Kapha dosha

Choose warm foods and drinks with a focus on pungent, bitter and astringent tastes which stimulate the taste buds and help to improve digestion

Include lots of dark leafy greens to support the liver and kidneys along with radishes, asparagus and sprouts including sprouted beans - a wonderful and nutritious addition to soups, salads and wraps

Garlic and onions also help to eliminate the damp remnants of winter

Drinking ginger tea with lemon is uplifting and warming helping to expel mucus and soothe colds.

Herbs that are useful in spring include ginger, black pepper, turmeric and cumin.

Ease into your morning with a simple yoga routine. Sleeping in aggravates Kapha dosha resulting in feeling sluggish throughout the day. Awake with the dawn instead to increase your sense of vitality.

Take a few minutes to inhale and exhale mindfully with your focus on your breath.

Write in your journal to clear your thoughts, making space for new ideas to flourish.

Sort through a cupboard, recycle and re-organise, you’ll feel so much lighter!

Exciting new event:

Check out Supernal Online Magazine

Let me introduce you to a wonderful and informative new online magazine for which I have been contributing.

Supernal magazine is about dreams, sharing, caring and offering a medium for people to have a voice. It's about ethics, education, and love of life.

Look out for 'Discovering Ayurveda' along with all the other interesting topics.

Click here to subscribe for your free copy today

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

4 Comments

The Golden Glow of Ghee

31/1/2019

Revered in Ayurveda
as the
golden elixir...

Making ghee at home in my kitchen has become a regular ritual that provides a rich source of nourishment for the whole family. This golden clarified butter offers so many health benefits whilst also being a versatile kitchen staple.

You can experience making your own clarified butter with this simple recipe. It may soon become a regular ritual for you too.

What is Ghee?

Ghee is highly valued in Ayurveda as a nourishing restorative
It has been used for more than 5,000 years in India and is highly praised for its purifying and healing properties
Ghee is a clarified butter meaning that the clear liquid fat has been separated from the milk solids.

What are the benefits of ghee?

It is a superb aid for digestion and the absorption of nutrients
Stimulates the flow of bodily fluids and strengthens our seat of vitality known as Ojas - the essential energy for the body and mind cultivated from eating pure and nourishing foods, the subtle 'essence of immunity and life.'
Taken with food, ghee stimulates Agni - the digestive fire
Ghee has a high smoke point, making it ideal to cook with at high temperatures

It is particularly restorative for Vata and Pitta dosha. For Kapha dosha it is best used in small quantities
It has the qualities of being sweet, cool, light and oily.

How to make your own Ghee...

Simple and inexpensive to make, the process of simmering the butter at a low temperature will create a lovely nutty aroma to your ghee. Once sealed in the jar there is no need to refrigerate - keep out of direct sunlight and it will keep fresh for up to a year. Always use a clean spoon each time you use your ghee.

Ingredients:

The following recipe uses 500g of Organic unsalted butter.

500g unsalted butter
1 medium sized sterilised jar with lid
Gauze and sieve to strain the solids

First melt the butter over low heat

Watch for the milk solids separating from the oil

Skim the froth from the surface as necessary

It will begin to turn a rich golden yellow colour.

Keep a close eye on the pan as it turns darker.

When sediment drops to the base of the pan and the liquid is clear, remove from heat.

Strain into the jar

Seal the jar and leave to cool until it naturally thickens at room temperature

Enjoy your very own Golden Elixir!

Ways to use Ghee

Add a teaspoon or two to soups and casseroles
Spread moderately on toast or flatbreads
Use to sauté your spices and vegetables
Soothe dry, chapped skin by using it topically

Combining the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda with the practice of meditation, guided by Liesl Horne
A wonderful opportunity to develop your sense of wellbeing through the principles of Ayurveda and how they relate to your emotional and physical health.

Wednesday weekly classes

(6 in total) 10am - 12.30pm
commencing 27th February 2019
Cost $227

Saturday weekly classes

(6 in total) 10am - 12.30pm
commencing 23rd February 2019
Cost $227

CLASSES ARE HELD AT THE PURPLE DRAGONFLY
256 Yarra Street
Warrandyte Victoria 3113
To register call: 03 9844 5294

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Replenish

22/4/2018

Replenish...

‘To make full or complete again by supplying what has been or is lacking’

- dictionary.com

It can be the little things that light us up and make us feel nourished...

The daily habit of checking in, quietening our minds and listening to what we really need, can go a long way in helping us to feel centered instead of scattered, fulfilled instead of running on empty.

Ayurveda teaches us the art of self care and how to be in tune with the rhythms of nature. We can learn to replenish, through supportive lifestyle choices for our own unique dosha, choosing nourishing food and drawing upon the foundation of our daily routine.

What are the little things that ‘light you up’ and make you feel nourished throughout your day?

You could enjoy a simple morning walk, breathing in the fresh air, or write in a journal to clear your thoughts. Meet up with family and friends or go shopping locally for the freshest ingredients and connect with your community. Do or say something kind to show that you care. Make the time to relax and unwind at the end of your day with a soothing bath...

I am always in awe of how a change of scenery can also work wonders to lift our spirits and renew our vitality in unexpected ways. Whether it be through taking a holiday, a short weekend break or just factoring in some space during the day to reconnect to what is important to you.

Replenishing is a necessity for us all to feel at our best.

Restorative Mung Bean Soup

Warm and satisfying for Autumn ...

This soup was inspired by 'Kicharee' which traditionally includes basmati rice.
This is a slightly lighter alternative whilst still capturing that deeply nourishing taste.
Mung beans are full of protein,and when cooked with digestive enhancing spices, provide both restorative and cleansing benefits.

Ingredients:
1 tablespoon of ghee or rice bran oil
500g whole mung beans
2 medium carrots diced
2 sticks of celery diced
1 onion chopped
1 large clove of garlic crushed
1 clove bud
1 dessertspoon of dried organic turmeric
1 dessertspoon of dried or fresh ginger
1 tspn of ground cummin
1 dessertspoon of fennel seeds
1 litre of vegetable stock
Fresh coriander to garnish and an extra teaspoon of ghee

Method:
Soak the mung beans in cold water for 1-2 hours to soften. Rinse thoroughly.

Heat the oil in a medium saucepan and lightly fry the ginger, garlic, onion and dried spices.

Add the diced carrot and celery.
Then add the rinsed mung beans, stir well before adding the stock.

Cover and simmer on low heat until the mung beans and vegetables are tender.

Season to taste before garnishing with freshly chopped coriander and the teaspoon of ghee.

Vata - can reduce the onion
Pitta - can reduce ginger if too heating
Kapha - can add a pinch of chilli for extra heat

From My Garden: Sage

This beautiful Sage bush is thriving in my garden. The soil is well drained and it receives lots of sunshine throughout the day providing the ideal growing conditions that it needs.

Grows best: in warm, well-drained soil. Harvested from spring to autumn. Cut back after flowering.

Steep a couple of leaves in a small teapot and enjoy as a herbal tea.

Qualities: Pungent, bitter, astringent.
Slightly heating.

Benefits of Sage:

Sage helps to replenish energy whilst aiding digestion and the respiratory and nervous systems.
It’s antiseptic properties make it a useful mouth and throat gargle.
Egyptians used sage medicinally as a brain tonic. For those studying, it has been traditionally used to help boost memory.
Counteracts the richness of heavy foods with its potency.
Helps to reduce excess secretions in the body such as mucus from the nose and lungs, as well as excessive salivation.
Especially good for excessive kapha dosha when taken in a warm tea.
Emotionally it helps to promote calmness and clarity.

Caution – Avoid if pregnant and for nursing mothers. Do not use if you are experiencing conditions of dryness.

Consultations

A personalised Ayurvedic Lifestyle Consultation is a wonderful way to learn more about your individual mind/body nature and the choices that help to support your ongoing health and wellbeing.

Please contact me here if you would like to book an appointment.

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Inviting more relaxation into your life…

19/12/2017

"Sometimes
the most productive
thing you can do is -
relax"

Mark Black

Have you noticed how time seems to speed up during all of the excitement of festivities and celebrations at this time of year?

When we become busier than usual, making the time for relaxation can be essential for our wellbeing. Even the thought of the word 'relaxation' can prompt us to take a deep breath and exhale. Just a few minutes a day spent in nature can help quieten a busy mind, release tension and enable our energy to flow more freely.

The daily practice of tuning into our bodies and slowing down helps us to restore and re-balance, often making us more productive in the long run. Meditation and relaxation form a vital part of a healthy Ayurvedic lifestyle routine. This helps to keep us in tune with what our bodies need and to maintain a sense of clarity and ease - all of which can be compromised when we become overly busy.

Benefit to the Dosha’s when spending time in nature:

Vata – nourishes and grounds the lightness and movement of the air elements. Walking barefoot on grass or feeling the sand beneath your toes helps to ground Vata dosha. (a reminder that windy weather can aggravate Vata dosha).

Pitta – being near water helps to soothe and cool the heat of the fire element. Walking by a river or lake helps you to cool down and restore a sense of calmness.

Kapha – walking in fresh air helps to lighten and stimulate the heavier qualities of the earth and water elements. If you feel sluggish or lethargic this can help you to feel more energised.

You don't have to travel far to connect to a beautiful spot in nature. You'll discover that your own garden or backyard can provide a place to unwind and sit quietly for a while.

One of the many beautiful spots
to sit and contemplate
whilst on a recent
meditation training retreat at
The Yarra Valley Living Centre.

These beautiful words were discovered on a weekend
riverside walk.
A wonderful reminder of the benefits of being near a river.

'People who live in cities...need access to the river, to draw its nurturing spirit into their hearts.
Spending time by a river teaches us many things. One of them the flow of life...'
- Thomas Moore

From My Kitchen...

Decadent Red Velvet Delights

These decadent truffles are made with the richness of cacao and the goodness of beetroot which provides a rich nutritional boost, vibrant colour and amazing taste!

Ingredients:
(use organic where possible)
1 medium raw beetroot peeled and cut into quarters
1 1/2 cups of desiccated coconut
10 pitted medjool dates
1/2 cup raw macadamias or raw cashews
2 generous tblspns of cacao
1/2 tspn natural vanilla extract
Dash of maple syrup
pinch of rock salt
extra cacao to roll in

Method:
Place all ingredients into your food processor and blend on high speed until the mixture is smooth.

Place in a bowl in the fridge to firm for about 20 minutes.

Use your hands to shape into truffle sized balls then roll in the extra cacao for coating. Best served chilled.

From the garden...

In my previous Nourish Note the photo of the raspberry bush looked very different - just completely bare sticks! Now there is an abundance of leaves and fruit. What a pleasure to start the day picking fresh juicy raspberries straight from the garden to the kitchen table.

Benefits of Raspberries:

Helps to nourish the blood
Good for Vata and Kapha dosha. Pitta can eat occasionally
Taste: Sweet, sour and astringent

Ayurveda and Relaxation Workshop

Would you like to learn more about the benefits of Ayurvedic Relaxation and meditation with strategies to support your wellbeing throughout the year?

Come along and join me at my next workshop:

Ayurveda and Relaxation
Saturday 10th February 2018
10am - 1pm
$75 (includes morning tea)
The Purple Dragonfly
Warrandyte
Bookings essential call: 03 9844 5294

Wishing you joy, health and happiness for the New Year!

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Light and Delicious for Spring

8/8/2017

Preparing and planning delicious food
for your week ahead...

Choosing a new recipe or two is one of my favourite things to do. I like to include them with my tried and trusted staples when it comes to planning the weeks' meals ahead. The added benefit of being organised is the wonderfully calming affect this has for Vata dosha - especially when the week gets busier! I also like to make sure I have some lighter options on hand to share with family and friends.

"Vata benefits from the regularity of routine which helps to keep the lightness of the air elements grounded and soothed."

Whilst regular snacking is not recommended in between meals in Ayurveda, enjoying the occasional healthy snack or a light meal is a far better alternative than reaching for packaged, highly processed foods. The key is to plan ahead so that you can make guilt-free choices from fresh, seasonal ingredients to sustain your energy levels.

Here are some recent light and tasty recipes from my kitchen that are simple to make.

My home-made Veggie Delights....

These little veggie balls are delicious as a healthy snack or served, as you see here, with Oak Leaf lettuce and dips as a nutritious light meal.

Ingredients:

1/4 roasted pumpkin cut into cubes
1 grated carrot
1 long red chili finely chopped
1 generous cup of cauliflower blitzed in food processor until granular
1 cup of freshly chopped spinach
1 tspn of ground fennel seeds
1/4 cup of tri colour quinoa grains, cooked
1 egg lightly mixed (optional - can be replaced with 1/2 tsp cornflour)
1 tblspn fresh fennel fronds and parsley chopped.

Note: Pitta - can omit the chili from this recipe.

Method:
Roast the granulated cauliflower in a moderately hot oven until lightly golden and fragrant.

Place all remaining ingredients in a bowl and combine with the egg (if using). Season well.
The mixture will be quite wet. Form into bite sized balls.

Place on baking paper on baking tray and roast in a moderately hot oven for approx. 20-30 mins or until golden brown and firm. Turn occasionally whilst roasting.

Beetroot Dip

Ingredients:

3 small beetroots, steamed and skin removed
1 tablespoon of unhulled tahini
juice of 1/2 freshly squeezed lemon

Method:
Blitz all the ingredients together in a vitamix or food processor. Season to taste.

Pesto Dip

Ingredients:

1 large bunch of basil (can add handful of other greens such as kale or spinach)
1/2 cup of pine nuts
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 medium size red or green chili (optional)
1 garlic clove
1/2 freshly squeezed lemon or to taste
Season with rock salt and pepper

Method:
Blitz all the ingredients together in a food processor. Season to taste.

Mixed Veggie Crisps
These are so easy to make and their vibrant colours and crunch make them irresistable!

Ingredients:

1 medium sized orange sweet potato peeled
3 small beetroots peeled or scrubbed
1 medium sized eggplant
2 tablespoons of rice bran oil
Rock salt to season

Method:
Pre-heat the oven to 200°C

Finely slice the vegetables and mix thoroughly with the oil. Season with the salt and spread the slices out evenly on baking trays.

Bake until crispy and golden for approx 15 -20 mins.

Since these crisps are dry and light, they are fine in moderation for Kapha dosha. Pitta can reduce the salt and Vata will benefit from having them with the moist dips from the above recipes.

Hibiscus and Rosehip Tea
This is my go-to tea when I feel like something sweet and uplifting.

The vibrant taste and colour will help to boost your energy levels during the afternoon. Add your favourite protein ball for a delightful combination.

You can usually find good quality Hibiscus and Rosehip Tea at your local health food store.

From my garden....

It's looking rather bare, but there are a few new buds appearing on the raspberry vine.

The parsnip seeds I planted months ago have flourished and this week I pulled up a huge bunch of them! They were super sweet roasted, and so fresh. The whole family enjoyed them. I will definitely plant them again.

Parsnip tops flourishing

Fresh kale for soups, dips, and smoothies

This week's harvest - sweet parsnips

I've been watching this capsicum slowly getting bigger - nearly ready for picking

Now that Spring is here what will you be growing in your garden?

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Celebrating Winter

30/5/2017

Let's celebrate the colder winter months with a warming immune-boosting tea, stimulating spices and simple homemade sauces.

Winter Warming Tea

Take comfort in sipping this immune boosting tea that helps to keep colds at bay during kapha time of year.

In a medium size saucepan add:

10cm fresh sliced ginger
1 tsp of dried ginger
3cm piece of fresh sliced turmeric (or 1 tsp dried turmeric)
2 cinnamon sticks (or 1 tsp dried cinnamon)
5 cups of water.

Simmer for 15 minutes then remove to cool slightly.

Add the juice of a whole lemon and a little raw honey if you like a sweeter taste.

Pitta's may need to use a moderate amount of ginger as it is heating.

I will often add a generous amount to a flask and take it with me on my travels throughout the day.

From My Garden...

To keep the fire element stoked during winter, I’ve been making the most of the chilies growing in my garden.

Chili adds warmth to the coolness of Vata dosha and helps to kindle the digestive fire. It is also helpful for Kapha dosha which can accumulate at this time of year, leading to congestion and sluggishness.

For Pitta’s with a strong digestive fire, chili may be too heating for you.

I love these fiery gems and I add them to soups, curries and sauces for their flavoursome and warming qualities.

Easy Homemade Tomato,
Sweet Potato and Garlic Sauce

This week in my kitchen I was inspired to make something rustic and delicious, which was also simple.

In my oven, I roasted fresh tomatoes, sweet potato and a whole bulb of garlic. Once cooked through, I blended it together to create a robust, rich sauce with a beautiful depth of flavour, making it perfect for lentils, pasta, or as a soup base.

Finished with fresh garden herbs for an added nutritional boost, I also add cooked eggplant, which is helpful for kapha dosha.

This is a great example of a comforting winter dish using seasonal root vegetables, fresh herbs and warming spices to keep us cozy and nourished during the cooler months.

It should be noted that these ingredients are Pitta promoting, so those with a high Pitta dosha should use them moderately.

New Workshops Coming Soon...

In August and November, I will be introducing some exciting new workshops which will be held at Mitcham Community House using Wholefoods from an Ayurvedic perspective

Interested? Contact me or the Community House for further information.

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Preparing Your Kitchen Space

23/1/2017

2 Comments

Don't you just love the fresh start that a new year brings? Your first Nourish Note for 2017 begins with creating a calm and organised space in the kitchen, the central place of your home that can help to support your health throughout the year. Being prepared is a key factor in maintaining healthy food habits and there is no better place to start than in your kitchen.

When our ‘space’ feels clear and organised we’re generally more inspired to spend time getting creative with our food and cooking. This helps to keep us motivated with our food choices and away from unconscious eating.

So, how does being organised relate to our dosha? Your Vata dosha, which governs all movement through the mind and body, helps to express our imagination. Yet when we feel overwhelmed our productivity can come to a standstill. Being organised gives us the space to be creative in a relaxed environment.

Here are some steps I use to help clear out the clutter and make room for inspiration...

Make a start by:

Clearing out the junk and any out-of-date products in your cupboards and fridge
Wiping down all surfaces with diluted white vinegar and your favourite essential oil
Labeling and organising your food in clean glass jars which is a great way to find your ingredients at a glance
Tending to your veggie or herb patch for a few minutes a day

Planning meals is well worth your time.

It makes economic sense to plan ahead, knowing exactly what you need to buy for the week. Also it can help you to be more mindful of nutritional choices and what seasonal produce is available.

I love to sit down and relax with a cup of tea and spend an hour or so on a Sunday afternoon looking through my favourite cookbooks, making my shopping list and meal plan for the week.

Why not take the time next weekend to enjoy three of your most inspiring recipe books of the moment? Choose recipes to include over the next month along with your easy go-to staples..

Meals can be as simple as these summer fruit breakfast dishes my family has been enjoying over the holidays.

Next Ayurveda
Foundation for Health Workshop

Join me at the Purple Dragonfly on Saturday 25 February from 1pm-5pm.

256 Yarra Street, Warrandyte

Bookings essential: 03 9844 5294
Cost: $95. For further information click here

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

2 Comments

Staying Nourished When You Travel

24/8/2016

Begin Your Holiday Feeling Nourished

A change in our environment and our daily routine when we travel can provide a wonderfully refreshing experience that stimulates our senses leaving us feeling invigorated and renewed. But how does traveling, especially in an aeroplane, affect our Vata Dosha?

Vata is governed by space and air, with qualities that are light and drying. When we fly there is an increase of Vata due to the pressure in the cabin, the plane's enclosed air conditioning system, and the fact that we are no longer on the ground.

This can lead to experiencing the not-so-pleasant symptoms of dry skin, dry nostrils, and constipation. Luckily there are some practical ways to prepare for this so that you can arrive refreshed and ready to enjoy your holiday.

Tips for Staying Nourished When You Travel

Before You Go

Be prepared well ahead of time which takes the pressure off you and avoids last minute rushing. This helps to keep your Vata Dosha in a calmed state.
Having a massage before you leave relaxes your nervous system and keeps your skin nourished with oil.
Avoid junk food that can make you feel sluggish and stimulants like coffee and tea that increase Vata Dosha.

On the Plane

Massaging the soles of your feet with a little organic sesame oil helps to ground you and is very relaxing.
Also rub a little of the oil into your nostrils and ears to counteract dryness and can protect your airways.

Sustenance

On the plane, stay hydrated with warm water, avoid overly salty food and snacks, and stay away from the stimulation of caffeinated drinks.
Once you arrive, treat yourself to a soothing chai, a herbal tea or a smoothie with coconut water to keep up your hydration.

Arrive Refreshed

Include a refreshing facial spray bottle with aloe vera or rosewater in your hand luggage. This can be used throughout the flight to help keep your skin hydrated.
Practice Pranayama exercises (more information here) to equalise the breath within your body, creating a state of relaxation.
Regular meditation is beneficial to keep you feeling centred instead of scattered.

Depending on which part of the world you are travelling to, and which season you are entering, there are several other vital Ayurvedic tips that you can use. For a more detailed consultation, please feel free to contact me here.

Workshop news

Thank you to everyone who attended the most recent Foundation for Health Part 2 Workshop.
For anyone interested in attending future workshops please leave your details here.

Taking time out for exciting new changes...

With the coming of Spring it is time to refresh and renew.

Please stay posted while I take some time over the next few months to prepare an exciting new look and feel to my website and a fresh direction for next year's Nourish Note.

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

Changing with the season

14/4/2016

4 Comments

'Naturally draw upon the deep, grounding nourishment
of the earth
through
your feet'

Walking barefoot on grass -

Soothes and grounds Vata dosha (space and air) and an overactive mind by connecting to the earth element. Naturally draw upon the deep, grounding nourishment of the earth through your feet.
Stimulates Kapha dosha (earth and water) when you feel dull and listless by gently activating pressure points through your feet and toes.
Calms Pitta dosha (fire and water) when the cool morning dew still rests on the grass, helping to cool the heat of Pitta dosha.

Autumn...
is the time to:

Swap the cooling foods of summer for warming foods and drinks – soups, one pot meals with plenty of fresh seasonal produce, warming spices, herbal teas and chai. This will help to stoke your 'digestive fire’ and boost your metabolism as the colder weather begins.
Treat yourself to a warm oil massage to keep dryness away and to help strengthen your immune system.
Take time for walks in nature absorbing the vibrant changing colours of the season. Your mind will feel fresher, stimulated and clear.
Prioritise rest and relaxation for renewing your energy for vibrant health.

Freshly picked from my garden:

After returning home from holiday,
I found these growing in my garden:

Eggplant, sweet basil and chilli pepper!

With these fresh ingredients, I cooked this dish:

Eggplant in fresh Passata with fennel seeds, sweet basil and chilli -simple to make and delicious to eat!

Method:

Dice the eggplant. Gently heat enough olive oil or ghee to thinly coat the base of a saute pan. Add the eggplant and a tablespoon of fennel seeds, stir until lightly browned. Add 4 cups of freshly made tomato sauce (Passata) if you have it or a good quality organic store bought bottle of Passata.
Score the chilli and add whole to the pan (remember to remove before serving!). This will add a lovely warmth to the dish without being too overpowering. Cover the pan with a lid and simmer gently until the eggplant is tender - about 20 minutes. Just before serving, add a generous handful of chopped fresh basil to the pan and season with a little salt and pepper.
Serve with basmati rice, quinoa or pasta.

This dish is good for Kapha dosha (stimulating) and in moderation for Vata. Increases Pitta dosha.

Workshop News

Thank you to everyone who attended the 'Foundation for Health Workshop' in March. An educational afternoon of Ayurvedic Self Care was enjoyed by all!

If you are interested or curious about gaining a deeper understanding of Ayurvedic Self Care , you can find out more and book here.

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

4 Comments

What is your daily practice?

7/2/2016

9 Comments

'Your daily
routine
creates your
art
of living'
Author unknown

Being consciously aware of our daily habits can lead to healthy and fulfilling practices that sustain our well-being throughout the year. Being mindful of what we choose to include in our daily routine also helps to replace those habits that do not serve our best interests.

Here are 3 practices to consider making part of your daily routine:

Create a clear space - a clear space can help you feel relaxed and uncluttered. Try clearing out a cupboard, putting your thoughts on paper or making space on your calendar for 'time out' from a busy schedule.
The practice of gratitude - a powerful way to transport emotions to a better feeling place.
Walking - provides exercise and time to practice all of the above - clearing out the mental clutter, gratitude for nature, relationships and taking time to care for your physical, emotional and mental health.

What will your daily practice be in 2016? How will this practice add value to your well-being?

Herb in focus: Licorice
Good for Vata and Pitta. Not to be used in excess for Kapha dosha

Helps to relieve the body of mucous
Aids digestion
Mild laxative
Soothing for inflammation and muscle spasms
Restorative and rejuvenative
Calms the mind and soothes the spirit
Nourishes the brain
Helps to strengthen hair, vision, complexion and voice

Try a licorice herbal tea when you: feel congested, have a sore throat/cough, feel depleted or in need of a soothing tonic.
*Precaution - avoid if you suffer with edema, osteoporosis or hypertension

Refresh with this simple mango smoothie
on a hot summers day...

This delicious smoothie has just three
ingredients:
1 mango
Juice of 1-2 limes (depending on size)
2 generous cups of coconut water.

Peel the mango and score the flesh away from the central pip. Add to a blender
with the juice of the limes and the coconut water.
Blitz until smooth and enjoy!

Workshop news...

Would you like to learn more about looking after your health through Ayurveda self care?
My next Foundation for Health workshop will be held on Saturday 5th March in Ferntree Gully...details and how to register can be found here.

The information in Nourish Notes is for educational purposes only and is not intended to treat diagnose, prescribe or heal any health condition or to replace standard medical treatment or advice.

9 Comments

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N O U R I S H N O T E

Preparing for Spring

The Golden Glow of Ghee

Replenish

Restorative Mung Bean Soup

From My Garden: Sage

Consultations

Inviting more relaxation into your life…

Light and Delicious for Spring

Celebrating Winter

Preparing Your Kitchen Space

Staying Nourished When You Travel

Workshop news

Taking time out for exciting new changes...

Changing with the season

What is your daily practice?

Simple, sustainable
ways to feel good naturally

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