Summer Salad Bowls
I bet you’ve seen these massive salad bowls going viral on social media lately. I have to admit, I wasn’t too sure what was the purpose of making SO, MUCH, SALAD at once. It took me one try to fall in love with the idea. It is easy, quick and healthy. You can change it up depending on the veggies you have on hand. It is great on it’s own or when used as a “vessel” for your barbecued chicken or steamed fish AND you have leftovers. I don’t know about you but I love me some leftovers. It’s always tastier on day two and you didn’t have to cook that day. Winning all around! This recipe is delicious, creamy and vegan!
THE SALAD
It’s simple. Here are some suggestions of what to put in it.
As the base of your salad, you can use :
4 cups of cooked quinoa (1 cup on uncooked quinoa will grow into 4 cooked cups)
or 2 cups of cooked quinoa + 2 cups of chopped kale. Kale is perfect for these big salads since the leaves are thicker and won’t become wet and soggy.
or 4 cups of chopped kale (Superfood that contains more vit C than oranges! Don’t forget to “massage” your kale as it is harder to digest raw)
Pick 4-5 ingredients and add them to your salad base!
1 cup of chopped raw broccoli
1 cup of roasted sweet potato cubes (Superfood!)
1 cup of legume of choice. I personally love to rehydrate dry legumes. It’s extra work, but that way, you know that your food has less preservatives and less salt.
1 cup of diced cucumber
1 cup of diced celery
1 cup of cherry tomatoes cut in half
1 cup of corn
1 cup of grated carrots
1 cup of fresh, cubed mango
1 cubed avocado
1 cup of roasted mushrooms
1 cup of purple cabbage
1/2 cup of minced raw red onion. Soaking the minced onion in cold water with a little bit of vinegar will take the “bite” out of the onion.
1/2 cup of feta cheese (dairy, would make the recipe vegetarian and not vegan)
1/2 cup of sliced almonds
1/2 cup of dried cranberries
whatever you have in the fridge that needs to be eaten!
THE DRESSING
Now this is the best part! This is what makes this salad so darn delicious!
1/2 cup of raw, unsalted cashews. This is what makes your dressing '“creamy” and gives it some plant-based proteins.
1 full cup of fresh dill (the star of this dish!)
1/4 cup of lemon juice
the zest of that lemon
1 tsp of dijon mustard
2-3 cloves of garlic
1/4 cup of avocado oil or olive oil
3 tbsp of water
salt to taste
Put all of the vinaigrette ingredients in a blender and mix until smooth.
* You can switch things up and use cilantro and lime instead of dill and lemon. You’ll have yourself a completely different salad that is just as amazing!
In the biggest bowl you can find in your kitchen, mix the salad with the dressing and enjoy!
Kim
xoxo
6 Tips To Help Manage Anxiety
In this day and age, it is safe to think that we have all, at one time or another, experienced stress or anxiety. It can feel overwhelming and make you feel powerless. I know this for a fact first hand. In honor of #MentalHealthAwarenessMonth, here are a few tips to help you cope in a mindful, loving way. Some may surprise you!
CBD
Many clinical studies demonstrate that CBD (cannabidiol) help in reducing anxiety and general stress. It also reduces pain and improves sleep. My absolute favorite CBD brand is Flora & Bast. Their Relief Potion is a CBD oil that can be take orally or topically. It gives your mind and body a break by addressing the root of pain. Their Relief Gummies contain CBN, a compound similar to but much weaker than THC. CBN promotes calm, reduces anxiety and boots sleep patterns.
Flora & Bast offers you 20% off when using code “KIMLOVE”. Click here to redeem the offer.
“These magical herbs give you jitters-free energy, aid focus and invite calm.”
SWITCH OUT CAFFEINE FOR ADAPTOGENS
Yep, caffeine can exacerbate anxiety. Caffeine doesn’t really cause anxiety per se. It is a psychostimulant that causes effects similar to the symptoms of anxiety. This is why, if you are on the anxious side, caffeine may not be the best thing for you. Try adaptogens instead! These magical herbs give you jitters-free energy, aid focus and invite calm. Pique Life’s Chaga Energy Elixir is my go-to. Sakara also has Nootropic Chocolates to energize and help you focus.
Pique Life offers you 5% off when using code “KIMKLEAN”. Click here to redeem the offer.
Sakara offers you 20% off your 1st order with code “XOKIMKLEAN”. Click here to redeem the offer.
“Practicing gratitude rewires the brain and focuses on positive thoughts.”
PRACTICING GRATITUDE
Anxiety can bring a feeling of insecurity, of being inadequate. Practicing gratitude rewires the brain and focuses on positive thoughts which can then reduce anxiety. Deepak Chopra, an expert in the field of mind-body healing says, “The main thing to do at the end of the day is to write in a gratitude journal all the things that you are grateful for that happened that day. You will invite even more abundance into your life.” There are several gratitude journals to guide you in this practice.
MOVE IT!!
Emotions are energy moving through your body, so Move Your Body! Physical activity is known to be a mood lifter. Playing sports releases endorphins, the “feel good” hormones, which give an impression of euphoria. Running, yoga, walk in nature are all good sports to help manage anxiety. And so is dancing! So blast your favorite tune and dance like nobody's watching! I swear a laugh will come out of your mouth without you even expecting it. My favorite “at home workout” that always kicks my butt and makes me smile is The Sculpt Society by Megan Roup. Her energy is always positive and highly contagious!
“This light can cause sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety and sometimes even depression.”
PUT YOUR PHONE AWAY IN THE EVENING
The blue light emitted from screens, aka your cellphone, visibly affects your skin - premature aging - but also affects your mental health in a more sneaky way. This light can cause sleep disturbances, irritability, anxiety and sometimes even depression. Not to mention the anxiety that can arise from comparing your life to the “online” lives of strangers. Personally, I put my cell phone in “Night Shift” mode from 8pm to 8am and try to avoid social media 2 hours before going to bed. And honestly, I see a difference with this simple adjustment.
AROMATHERAPY
Essential oils are known for their calming benefits. Here is a simple little guide for you. Citruses (lemon, pink grapefruit, orange) are like big rays of sunshine! They are invigorating and bring happiness. Flowers (rose, geranium, orange blossom) offer you emotional support. They soothe the heart and mind and invite love. Roots (vetiver, spikenard) ground you and bring a feeling of balance and stability. Inhalation is the fastest way for your body to assimilate the molecules of essential oils. So open up the bottle of your favorite oil and take a deep breath!
In my experience, anxiety does not happen “out of nowhere”, but rather is a way our body uses to signal us that something needs to be addressed. So I invite you to really do some introspection, look inwards and understand the source of your anxiety. I hope these few tips will be of great help to you!
Kim xoxo
Adaptogenic Magic
Adaptogens… here’s a word you’ve most likely come across frequently on wellness blogs. A word that seems familiar yet maybe leaves you feeling like a deer in headlights? What the heck are adaptogens?! Well, simply put, adaptogens are plants and herbs that help your body adapt to modern life stressors. Let’s dig a little deeper!
“In today’s world, your phone, your boss, the traffic on your way to work, etc. can create this never-ending impression of “danger” and make your adrenal gland secrete too much cortisol.”
Adaptogens have an effect on the release of cortisol, the stress hormone that puts your body into fight or flight mode. Cortisol is very important in life or death situations, but when your body constantly feels threatened, your immune system starts to go down. In today’s world, your phone, your boss, the traffic on your way to work, etc. can create this never-ending impression of “danger” and make your adrenal gland secrete too much cortisol. This is where adaptogens intervene! There are two main types of adaptogens. The ones that calm you, help you relax after an intense work day and ease into a restful night. The ones that give you energy, help you focus and accomplish the tasks at hand.
“This superfood promotes positive energy and even helps with PMS and menopause!”
ENERGIZING
Ginseng is a root that has the wonderful ability to improve stamina as well as mental and emotional stress. Ginseng is one of the most famous Chinese herbs used as a tonic, a stimulant and even as a male aphrodisiac! Ginseng is a promoter of vitality!
Chaga, or “Diamond Of The Forest”, is a mushroom that, unlike most mushrooms, grows on living trees making it dense in nutrients. It is known to be rich in antioxidants, to support your immune system and your overall well-being. This superfood is a tonic, simulates brain functions and eases anxiety making it the perfect adaptogen to help you remain focused throughout the day.
Maca is a Peruvian root that provides sustained energy throughout the day. It is famously known to increase libido for both men and women. This superfood promotes positive energy and even helps with PMS and menopause! All around, it is a tonic, a hormone balancer and an aphrodisiac… SOLD!!
“It is used to help combat anxiety and chronic stress.”
CALMING
Ashwagandha is used a lot in Ayurveda (an ancient Indian medical system) and is considered the “Indian ginseng”. Ashwagandha is a tonic, it strengthens the nerves and is a mild sedative promoting a restful night. It is used to help combat anxiety and chronic stress. Some studies show that ashwagandha may also play a role in male fertility.
Reishi is another mushroom, very similar to Chaga, but offers a more calming effect to the body. It helps you manage stress and anxiety and improves your mood and well-being. At the same time, Reishi nourishes the brain and helps you stay focused. It is packed with antioxidants and supports a healthy immune system.
“Three Spirit […] specializes in functional non-alcoholic cocktails to give you the energy to be the life of the party or to help you unwind and relax at the end of the day.”
Powders and supplements are the most common ways to add adaptogens to your lifestyle. Moon Juice has MANY different types of adaptogenic “DUST” and capsules to enhance your mood, your energy levels, your brain functions, your sleep, your libido and much more!
Teas and infusions are also a great way to incorportate adaptogens. *Pique Life’s Chaga Energy Elixir is one of my favorite. It also contains ginseng, has an earthy and sweet taste and is triple toxin screened for maximal purity! It provides a calm energy, helps with focus and supports your immune system. Coffee alternatives are also very popular. MUD\WTR keeps the brain fog and jitters away and replaces them with a focused energy. Many other adaptogenic beverages are on the market these days. Recess, for example, is an adaptogen infused sparkling water brand. You also have Three Spirit that specializes in functional non-alcoholic cocktails to give you the energy to be the life of the party or to help you unwind and relax at the end of the day.
“The beauty world loves adaptogens too! They have the same benefits for your skin as for your body.”
The beauty world loves adaptogens too! They have the same benefits for your skin as for your body. They calm inflamed and irritated skin, reduce redness and swelling and brighten your complexion with their antioxidants. Youth To The People's Adaptogen Soothe + Hydrate Activated Mist and Biophile's Bio-Shroom Rejuvenating Serum are the perfect adaptogenic duo for the face. Your skin becomes smooth and radiant!
All in all, adaptogens are here to support you. Their purpose is to make your life easy and stress free. Whether your calming ritual is sipping on a cup of hot tea or applying your skincare routine, the results can be amplified with adaptogens. The options are plentiful! So enjoy!
Kim
xoxo
*Pique Life offers you 5% off sitewide with code “KIMKLEAN”. Enjoy!
Top 5 Winter Essential Oils
I find essential oils to be magical! Not only do they brighten up a room with their enveloping aroma, but they also have properties that support the wellbeing of your body and your mind. This is the exact reason why I felt drawn to study aromatherapy and am now an essential oil specialist.
And so, in this video, I am sharing with you my top 5 essential oils to keep by your side during the winter months. They boost your immune system, support your respiratory system and and help keep your spirits up! I am also suggesting different ways to incorporate these oil so that you can fully enjoy their wonderful benefits!
Overnight Metabolism Boosting Superfood Chia Pudding
This chia seeds pudding is my new favorite breakfast! It is so easy to make and perfect for quick mornings on the go.
This brekkie will keep you feeling satiated until lunch and all its deliciousness are super nourishing to your body. The coconut water is full of natural electrolytes that keep you hydrated which is especially important in the morning. The Metabolism Super Powder tastes just like chocolate, activates your metabolism, stabilizes blood sugar and reduces sugar cravings. It also eliminates bloat, gives you energy and helps shed a couple extra pounds. I have a scoop of it every single day either in this pudding, my coffee or in a glass of almond milk. It is so good! Maca Powder is an adaptogen and a natural mood enhancer known for it’s fertility and sex drive properties. Chia Seeds are full of fibers and antioxidants and give you sustained energy making this recipe, your new morning bestie!
INGREDIENTS :
For The Pudding :
1 cup of Coconut Water
1 scoop of Sakara’s *Metabolism Super Powder
1 tsp of Maca Powder
2.5 tbsp of Chia Seeds
2 tbsp of Oats
1 tsp of Maple Syrup or Honey (optional)
For The Toppings :
1/2 a cup of Fresh Fruits. I personally enjoy mango, pineapples and any kind of berries!
Bee Pollen
Pumpkin Seeds or sliced Almonds
Cocoa Nibs
RECIPE :
Mix the Coconut Water, Metabolism Super Powder and the Maca Powder together well.
Add the Chia Seeds, Oats and natural sweetener, stir well and put in the refrigerator for 30 minutes or over night.
When ready to eat, add in all of your favorite toppings.
ENJOY!
* You can enjoy -20% off your 1st Sakara order (e.i. the Metabolism Super Powder) with my code “XOKIMKLEAN”
Lymphatic Drainage, The “Healthy” Massage
Beauty and health often seem to be two parallel worlds that have absolutely nothing in common. What if there was a beauty trend that not only helped your body to purify itself and stimulate your immune system but also to “debloat” and reduce the appearance of cellulite!? Here comes, the lymphatic drainage!!
“The lymph therefore plays a major role in your immune system.”
First things first, what is the lymphatic system? It is a system a vessels similar to your blood vessels that transports lymph from your tissues to your bloodstream. Lymph is simply plasma that left your blood vessels to feed your cells nutrients and grab your cells’ waste. The liquid then enters your lymphatic vessels, gets filtered by your lymph nodes where white blood cells attack viruses, bacterias, heavy metals and other cellular waste collected to finally go back into your bloodstream. The lymph therefore plays a major role in your immune system.
Unlike the circulatory system, the lymphatic system does not rely on the heart to pump the lymph. Heavy legs sensation, cellulite and stretch marks are all signs of poor lymphatic circulation. Physical activity, aka muscle contraction, helps to prevent the lymph from being stagnant. Some massage techniques also help with lymph movement. Yep, relaxing while eliminating toxins! Sign. Me. Up!
Most spas offer the Lymphatic Drainage, a massage that consists in long, light movements. It’s nothing like a “deep tissue” that breaks down the knots. Here, it’s all about being gentle and the results can be quite impressive! Flavia Lanini is an expert and has developed her own technique mixing contouring and draining. Celebrities such as Selena Gomez, Kris Jenner and Hailey Beiber love her and frequent her spa, the Flavia Lanini - Beauty Institute, located in West Hollywood, Los Angeles. After a single session, your water retention has evaporated and your body is completely sculpted! Such treatments are definitely a treat and can cost a pretty penny. Thankfully, there are some techniques you can do at home.
“This technique is energizing and practiced in the morning before jumping in the shower.”
Dry brushing, for exemple, consists of - wait for it! - brushing your dry skin with a brush made of natural sisal fibers. This technique is energizing and practiced in the morning before jumping in the shower. It activates your circulation and helps reduce cellulite while gently exfoliating your skin. The drainage paddle is a little different. It massages your oiled skin, tones, detoxifies, sculpts and reduces inflammation.
In order to practice these techniques at home, you have to start by activating your lymph nodes by applying gently pressure 75 to 100 times over your armpits, collarbone and groin areas. The goal of this massage is to move the lymph towards your lymph nodes through movements going from your hands to your armpits, from your feet to your groin and from you torso down to your groin. Repeat these movements 5 to 10 times, applying moderate pressure and there you have it! A massage by you, FOR you! Take your time and indulge in this precious self-care moment.
A lymphatic drainage massage offers benefits far beyond aesthetics. It allows you to feel rested or invigorated, to have smooth skin, to get rid of water retention and puffiness, to boost your immune system while eliminating harmful toxins. This is what we call self-care at it’s finest.
Love & Light
Kim
