Subject: Kaleifornian recipes & weekly wellness recap

Hi Friend!

I hope this message finds you well! I know many of you are parents, and if so, uncertainty about this school year is likely on your mind. Since at-home learning is either a consideration, a foregone conclusion, or perhaps an inevitability at some point, I wanted to share a podcast that might be helpful.

This is an interview that Wellness Mama did with a fellow entrepreneur and home-schooled home-schooler that might be useful for anyone doing at-home learning this year. In addition to fostering entrepreneurship, they touch on mindset, practical tips for parents, and discuss homeschooling in the context of the pandemic. Though I'm not the homeschooling type (I've only considered it because of the pandemic and our individual circumstances), I found it helpful as we enter this next chapter.

p.s. I know this is an agonizing decision and a tough situation for many. Our circumstances are all different, and our choices will vary. I hope we can support each other, including those who make different decisions, and give ourselves grace now more than ever. Everyone is doing their best.

Here are a few other updates from the past week:

What I've been doing: Running (aka slowly jogging!)

Graphic that reads: 'it's like Miracle Grow for the brain'

I've been going for a daily outdoor run (errr... jog... same difference?) and really enjoying it! Aside from listening to dance music, getting my morning light, vitamin D, and working up a good sweat, I'm also enjoying the feel-good endorphins and mental clarity. It also made me think of this quote from Dr. Mark Hyman (though don't take the analogy too far... we're not actually fans of Miracle Grow or Roundup!).

Have a look at this post for more on BDNF or listen to this short (9 min) podcast to learn more.

What I've Been Cooking: Cashew Kale & Chicken Salad

I usually make up my recipes from scratch or based on what I find in my kitchen that day, but this one was 100% inspired by a salad from R+D Kitchen. This is my parents' go-to spot, so it reminds me of them and our great times together in Napa.

This salad is simple and delicious. Check out my post for the details -- including my recipe for the sesame miso dressing (hint: it's good on a lot more than just this salad!).

Health Hack: Evening Lighting Adjustments

As a follow-up to my post on morning light exposure, last week I did one on the importance of changing your lighting in the evening. Check it out for some easy and practical tips. For more information, you can also read about the science that links melatonin and circadian rhythm interruptions to suppressed immunity and cancer risk:

The good news is that it's easy and relatively inexpensive to make changes to reduce disruptive light exposure at night. Take a look at the Household section of my Favorites* page to see the amber light bulbs and red nightlights (good for hallways & bathrooms) we use.

As always, thank you so much for reading! Wishing you a safe and healthy week ahead.

Be Well,

Jess XO

P.S. Do you know someone who'd appreciate yummy recipes, clean products recommendations, and healthy living tips? Here are some links you can pass along: weekly newsletter sign-up, Instagram, Pinterest, and Facebook. Thank you so much for sharing!!

*Note: I partner with a select handful of companies (that I shop from regularly!) and I'm also an Amazon Associate. I receive a small commission on qualifying purchases made through the provided links at no additional cost to you. In fact, I'm usually able to get you something extra, like a $.01 bottle of wine or a shopping credit when you make a purchase -- so just ask if you need a link! These partnerships help cover some costs of running this site. Thank you for your support!

Please feel free to ask if you have questions about any of these products. I will always give you my honest opinion and do my best to point you in the right direction!

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Subject: Kaleifornian recipes & weekly wellness recap

kaleifornian

What I've been doing: Running (aka slowly jogging!)

What I've Been Cooking: Cashew Kale & Chicken Salad

Health Hack: Evening Lighting Adjustments