We've eaten out more times than I would like to admit. And I can feel it in my energy level and my mood. I get physically tired more quickly than normal, but I've had insomnia at night. I'm irritable and have little patience for the kids. It doesn't help much that the eighteen month old's purpose in life is to empty all the drawers, hangers, cabinets, and...boxes. I pack, he unpacks and throws everything over the gate and down the stairs. Or into the kitchen sink. It's a vicious cycle.
So, in order to make it through this insanity with my mind intact I've come up with a list of things to do and foods to include in my daily diet that are immune boosting, mood boosting, and easy to prepare with few or no utensils necessary. I am doing this instead of packing. No, I'm not procrastinating, not at all.
1. Yoga
I don't practice regularly, but I feel a huge difference in my overall well being when I do. The stretching eases sore muscles, meditation eases the mind, and yoga overall can significantly reduce the affects of stress on the body.
2. Sleep
Go to bed on time! Preferably no later than 10:00. Your body heals and rejuvenates while you sleep. Without proper rest, the immune system has to work harder and you may end up getting sick- something that you don't want during an already stressful time.
3. Tea
Herbal teas can be insanely useful during times such as these. Herbs to try include chamomile, valerian, lemon balm, passion flower, ashwaganga, siberian ginseng, lavender, ginger and/or tumeric. Simply make an infusion by steeping a small amount (1-3 teaspoons, depending on how strong you want it) in a cup of boiling water for 5-10 minutes. Caution: most of these are usually best taken before bed as they can have fairly strong calming, and in some instances even sedative properties. Drinking green tea throughout the day boosts your antioxidant levels, which helps your immune system and can be a calming break from the extra activity.
4. Vitamins/Supplements
When it's difficult to eat well for whatever reason, supplements become essential to stay healthy. Take a food based supplement that includes all of the essential vitamins and minerals. Probiotics are also a must to keep your immune system working well. Buy a reputable brand or include probiotic foods such as kombucha and sour kraut in your diet. You can also give your immune system an antioxidant boost with elderberry concentrate.
5. Take a Break and go Outside
Vitamin D is essential to stay at the top of your game. There will be some in any multi-vitamin supplement but make an effort to get outside so your body can manufacture it's own from the sun. The kids need the break too. Just 30 minutes if the weather permits can make everyone feel better.
6. Smoothies
If you have a blender available, an easy way to incorporate a lot of healthy food without a lot of time or utensils is to make veggie and fruit smoothies. (My Vitamix will ride to Texas on the passenger seat of my car.) Here's my basic formula but recipes abound all over the internet.
Base: Some kind of fruit juice, milk, or water.
Something smooth: Avocado, Banana, Papaya, or Mango
Citrus: Pineapple, Orange or Grapefruit usually find their way in.
Other fruit: An apple, pear or handful of berries.
Veggies: A couple handfuls of some sort of greens is my usual go to. I've used carrots and zucchini with success as well.
Additions: For additional protein (and staying power), add yogurt, raw (pastured) egg yolk, nut butter, cacao nibs, flax, chia, oatmeal flour, or cooked quinoa.
7. Bone Broth
You probably won't be roasting any chickens or making homemade broth right now, but if you happen to have some stored up in the freezer that needs to get used up, like I do, use it! Make simple soups or just heat it up and drink it out of a mug. It's one of the most nourishing foods available.
8. Snacks
Have some healthy, no or low prep food options on hand that could, in a pinch, substitute for a meal, such as jerkey and cheese, nuts and nut butters with good quality bread, fruit (whole or dry), eggs, and oatmeal.
Do you have anything to add? I'd love to hear from you!
