This past weekend was Memorial Day Weekend and I hope yours was full of naps, BBQs, and maybe even some lounging by a pool. But more importantly, I hope you spent some time honoring those who have served in our military and have made the ultimate sacrifice.
At Ziva, we have so much respect for those who dedicate their lives to service. it’s why we give 100% scholarships to veterans — and find it so important to spend time remembering our fallen soldiers. (If a veteran you know is interested in a scholarship to Ziva, have them email info@zivameditation.com for the application)
Memorial Day also marks the unofficial start to summer. And with longer days and warmer temperatures, summer makes me feel excited to celebrate the pleasures of life (are my Florida roots showing?).
In the summer, I like to switch up how I’m eating according to Ayurveda. Ayurveda is an ancient science that’s all bringing your body into balance. In the colder months, I’m craving grounding, nourishing meals like soups and stews. But during the warmer months, I enjoy cooling/refreshing meals to balance the heat outside.
Today, I thought it’d be fun to share with you some of my favorite healthy summer recipes that are perfect for the season of sun.
Breakfast: My Superfood Smoothie
Every morning, I drink this Ayurvedic superfood smoothie. It helps me feel nourished and full of energy so I can handle all the demands of my day. The mix of protein, raw fats, and fruits mean you’ll feel satiated and ready to tackle anything life throws at you.
Lunch: Cooling Cucumber Soup
Cucumber is one of the best veggies to cool down from the inside out. In fact, these veggies are anti-inflammatory and packed with antioxidants. The soup combines cucumber and plain yogurt – one of the good, raw fats in Ayurveda – to make a meal that will get all your coworkers wondering what looks so yummy in your lunch bag.
Dinner: Homemade Vegan Pesto
This is one of my favorite summer staples. It’s fairly traditional but uses nutritional yeast which is an amazing source of protein and vitamins. Combined with raw garlic’s antiviral and antibacterial properties, high quality oil, and fresh basil, your body will be thanking you with every bite. The best part? All you need is a blender.
Dessert: Sweet Potato Brownies
With BBQs and dinner parties on your calendar, why not treat yo’self to some yummy desserts? Plus, you can indulge in these with no bloat or sluggishness. These delicious sweet potato brownies are made from super foods like coconut oil, coconut nectar, and coconut flour that leave you feeling great but keep the fudgy goodness.
Before Bed: Soothing Golden Milk
Golden milk just might save you from all kinds of turmoil. The turmeric, apple cider vinegar, and raw fats are great if you overindulged and are having trouble digesting. Another great use for this superstar drink? Golden milk is also great the morning after too many cocktails, as turmeric reduces inflammation and nausea, and aids liver detoxification.
Happy cooking!
Emily