Hi Friend,

Happy Sunday! I hope you've had a great week and that you're staying well. Here are a few healthy living ideas and resources that I wanted to share for today:

What I'm paying more attention to: my cycle

I've had a cycle tracking app forever, but last year I got more diligent about tracking symptoms whenever something felt off. As a result, I've seen patterns emerge and realized that things like a low energy day, a one-off headache, or a bad night's sleep actually aren't random events...they're syncing with my hormonal fluctuations, and I love having this insight. Here are some of the most popular tracking apps if you don't use one already. I also recommend following my friend Ellen, a Holistic Hormone Coach, if you struggle with hormonal issues or difficult periods (they don't have to be that way!). She's a great resource (btw, her favorite app for tracking symptoms and BBT is called Kindara).

Where I'm shopping: Thrive Market (now for meat too!)

For years, Thrive Market* has been my-go to for non-perishables like healthy snacks, nuts, olives, coffee, personal care, diapers etc. And now I'm ordering more of my meat and seafood through them as well. Their products are humanely, pasture-raised, most products are also organic, and the seafood is wild-caught...in other words, much higher quality than you can get at most grocery stores. If you want to learn more about the importance of quality animal products, check out these articles: The Nutritional Superiority of Pasture Raised Animals and Raising Animals Sustainably on Pasture.  And if you want to give Thrive Market a try, you can get a free gift with the purchase of a membership through this link.🙌

What I don't wear on my walks: sunglasses

I've realized that walking helps me feel more connected to the world during this time of social isolation. Being able to look people in the eye, exchange a smile, or have a brief chat can really make a difference. Here's a post from last week on the topic. It's a reminder to get out, look up (you’ll see so many familiar faces if you get into a walking routine!), and be the friendly face that you want to see out in the world.💕 We are social creatures and connection is vital to our wellbeing. In fact, a lack of social connection "is a greater detriment to health than obesity, smoking and high blood pressure." (source).

What I'm cooking: Greek Bowls

One day I was feeling too lazy to patty up lamb burgers, so I just cooked up the ground lamb with salt, pepper, sage and oregano... and Greek Bowls were born. Toppings: I use some combination of tomatoes, cucumbers, chickpeas, grass-fed feta, kalamata olives, red onion, fresh parsley and mint. But...work with what you have on hand or make it DIY buffet-style if you're trying to please people with different preferences! Serve on a bed of greens, crispy kale, or (cauli) rice. For dressing: I just drizzle with a good unfiltered olive oil, a big squeeze of lemon, salt and pepper.