We’ve heard of food that will make you thinner, boost your energy or put you in a good mood. But what about foods that will make for a more peaceful new year? To ensure that your 2011 is a tranquil one, Chef/Biodynamic Gardener Cynthia Mont’Ross (a.k.a. Chef Moon) of The Sanctuary at Sedona, a healing retreat in Sedona, lists five peace-inducing eats.
Chamomile Tea Soothing chamomile flowers originate from the Nile River Valley of Egypt. This golden herb remains a favorite since ancient times for its properties that promote calm and relieve anxiety. When steeped, these fragrant blossoms smell of freshly cut apples and produce a rich, golden cup with superior flavor. It is highly recommended for relaxation. This caffeine-free herbal infusion is delicious served with honey.
Banana Fig Pudding A soothing, calming sweet treat high in minerals and potassium, banana fig pudding offers a nurturing and cleansing alternative. In blender or preferred food processor mix four bananas, a handful of clean, soaked figs and fig soak water, two tablespoons ground flax, raw honey to taste and pinch of ground nutmeg. Combine all ingredients and blend into creamy pudding. Serve chilled, sprinkled with shredded coconut.
Miso SoupA bowl of miso for breakfast, lunch or dinner is by far one of the most soothing foods, especially when feeling under the weather during the cold and flu season. Miso paste, a traditional Japanese seasoning, is very high in B12 and a great source of Lactobacillus acidophilus. High in probiotics, as well as rich in protein, vitamins, mineral and antioxidants, miso also protects against aging, radiation and is perfect for soothing any stomach complaints. There are many traditional ways of preparing miso soup, including mixing two tablespoons of miso, vegetable broth, lemon juice and cayenne pepper with warm water into an instant cup of soothing goodness.
Walnuts The excitement and stress of returning back to the office after the New Year can sometimes leave a feeling of exhaustion and depletion. Grabbing a handful of raw walnuts can be the perfect grounding, yet nerve-energizing, pick-me-up during a busy day. Walnuts are one of the richest sources of stress-relieving nutrients including B-vitamins, zinc and protein.
Chocolate There is actually a good excuse for eating chocolate, under one condition: It needs to be dark and as high in cacao as possible. Studies have shown that eating a small piece of a dark chocolate candy bar each day can lower levels of stress hormones, like cortisol, norephinephrine and epinephrine, which cause a person to feel nervous and anxious. It also alters the levels of neurotransmitters in the brain that play a role in controlling mood.
Related Posts
Oliver’s Modern American Restaurant to Open in Former Historic Polynesian Dairy Queen Building
1960s Scottsdale comes to life at Oliver’s, a South Scottsdale dinner and drinks spot serving modern American cuisine with a retro vibe.
Beginner’s Luck: A New Ingredient-Driven Restaurant in Old Town Scottsdale
From the creators of The Gladly and Citizen Public House, Beginner's Luck delivers a seamless all-day dining and social experience.
It’s Your Last Chance to Enjoy UnderTow’s Classic Cocktails Ahead of New Menu Change
Phoenix's premier Tiki bar is offering a loving last look at a few favorites before unveiling a completely new menu this May.
10 Popular National Food Chains Opening in Phoenix
From coffee shops to iconic drive-thrus, Phoenix is becoming a hot spot for diverse dining experiences.