Learned Heard & Stirred

We are living in an unprecedented time, watching history unfold before our eyes. With so much uncertainty, fear, sickness, and the difficult new reality we're all living, it can be hard to find things to be grateful for. But it is important to try. In this episode of Learned, Heard and Stirred, I'm taking a break from Nutrition and anti-diet conversation to provide some optimism and joy in the form of a gratitude conversation. I share some research (of course) and ideas for cultivating more gratitude in your life, which I hope will, at the very least, bring some joy to your day. Wishing everyone health and happiness right now. Sending all the love and virtual hugs to each and every one of you.

It's that time of year again...the beginning of a new chapter...or does it need to be?

While I'm totally on board with personal growth and challenging yourself in new and rewarding ways, I'm not a fan of resolutions. So often people approach them from a black or white mindset-- you're either on the wagon or you're off. So what do I support/promote? Sustainable habits that require no resolutions list.

Establishing realistic, healthy and sustainable action steps that can evolve into habits is not only more fulfilling, but has a much higher likelihood of sticking. Health isn't a one-stop destination. It's a daily choice-- to show up for yourself, and continue to show up for yourself. Let's squash resolutions and instead, resolve for more self-kindness, compassion, and true self-care, so that we can better love and care for the people around us. Let's fill our hearts with more acceptance and fewer expectations for change. Let's focus on what we can control and let the rest go.

Let's be more present. More thoughtful. More grateful. We've got this 2020!

Postpartum is an equally exciting and scary time for a new mom. You've carried a growing baby for nine months and by week 40 of pregnancy - or past the due date, as many first-time moms experience - you are pretty good with the whole pregnancy thing and ready to issue an eviction notice. Bringing a new baby into the world presents new challenges without the added pressure of "getting our bod(ies) back." In this episode, I explore the hormonal impacts of pregnancy and postpartum, my personal experience and the experiences of a few other moms, and talk about ways to invite healthy habits, self care, and self-kindness into your life during the postpartum period and beyond. Information about Postpartum Anxiety and Depression: http://americanpregnancy.org/first-year-of-life/forms-of-postpartum-depression/ Postpartum Thyroiditis: https://www.chop.edu/conditions-diseases/postpartum-thyroiditis https://www.thyroid.org/wp-content/uploads/patients/brochures/Postpartum_Thyroiditis_brochure.pdf Postpartum Hormone Research: https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/86/10/4933/2849260 https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/96/1/E40/2833636 https://www.sciencealert.com/pregnancy-changes-a-woman-s-brain-structure-for-at-least-2-years-after-giving-birth Questions, topic ideas, or to find out how you can work with me for one-on-one coaching, email: fitfabwellbychanel@gmail.com 10 Minute Taco Bowl with Black Bean Dip INGREDIENTS " 2 CUPS COOKED QUINOA " 1 LB GRASS-FED GROUND BEEF " 2 TEASPOONS ONION POWDER " 1 TEASPOON CUMIN " 1 TEASPOON CAYENNE " 1 TEASPOON GARLIC POWDER " 2-4 CUPS ROMAINE LETTUCE " 1 AVOCADO, SLICED " 1 BAG OF HARVEST SNAPS BLACK BEAN SNAPS " BLACK BEAN DIP: " 1 CAN BLACK BEANS (ORGANIC AND NO SALT ADDED IF POSSIBLE) " 1 TEASPOON GARLIC POWDER " ½ TABLESPOON AVOCADO OIL " SALT & PEPPER TO TASTE DIRECTIONS 1. In a large pan, add a little avocado oil and turn onto medium heat 2. Mix together spices in a small bowl then add to pan (or skillet) with the beef (use a spatula or utensil to break up the beef in the pan so it is crumbles 3. Pour spices onto the beef and mix well 4. Cook the beef for about 8 minutes or until it is cooked through 5. While beef cooks, add the black bean dip ingredients to a food processor and pulse until combined and creamy (but thick) 6. Once ready, assemble your taco bowls by adding romaine, avocado, Harvest Snaps, cooked beef and the black bean dip 7. Salsa and other veggies would also be great in this 8. *Black bean dip will stay good for about 5 days in fridge