Ever notice how when the days get cooler and shorter, our bodies crave more comfort foods? Of course we enjoy the sweet cookies, cakes, and pies common around these holidays. But this is actually the season for nuts, grains, root vegetables (carrots and squashes), and meats (or other quality proteins for my fellow vegetarians). From fresh roasted pumpkin seeds to lentils and rice, an interesting philosophy that helps explain this tendency is Ayurveda. Ayurveda, "the science of life" is a 5,000 year-old tradition based on the Vedic texts from India. One concept from this system revolves around following the cycles of nature and life. Now that we are in the heart of fall and approaching winter, Ayurvedic traditions emphasize that it may be beneficial to eat foods that are heavier and higher in protein and fat.
Acorn, butternut, and delicata squashes abound at my local farmer's market. I decided to partake and experiment with a new stuffed acorn squash recipe (full of wild rice, carrots, pecans, and lots of warming spices) this weekend to honor the season’s feast. I particularly enjoy root vegetables for their grounding effect. The roots of any plant are its anchor and foundation. They are the essential parts that support and nourish the plant. Roots are a rich source of nutritious complex carbohydrates, providing a steady source of necessary sugars to the body. No wonder, these types of food are in season! So, indulge in the variety of seasonal comfort foods and stay true to your body and Mother Nature’s cycle. I would love to hear about your favorite seasonal feasts…
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Ever notice how when the days get cooler and shorter, our bodies crave more comfort foods? Of course we enjoy the sweet cookies, cakes, and pies common around these holidays. But this is actually the season for nuts, grains, root vegetables (carrots and squashes), and meats (or other quality proteins for my fellow vegetarians). From fresh roasted pumpkin seeds to lentils and rice, an interesting philosophy that helps explain this tendency is Ayurveda. Ayurveda, "the science of life" is a 5,000 year-old tradition based on the Vedic texts from India. One concept from this system revolves around following the cycles of nature and life. Now that we are in the heart of fall and approaching winter, Ayurvedic traditions emphasize that it may be beneficial to eat foods that are heavier and higher in protein and fat.
Acorn, butternut, and delicata squashes abound at my local farmer's market. I decided to partake and experiment with a new stuffed acorn squash recipe (full of wild rice, carrots, pecans, and lots of warming spices) this weekend to honor the season’s feast. I particularly enjoy root vegetables for their grounding effect. The roots of any plant are its anchor and foundation. They are the essential parts that support and nourish the plant. Roots are a rich source of nutritious complex carbohydrates, providing a steady source of necessary sugars to the body. No wonder, these types of food are in season! So, indulge in the variety of seasonal comfort foods and stay true to your body and Mother Nature’s cycle. I would love to hear about your favorite seasonal feasts…