GOOD MOOD SNACK

Looking for a snack that's quick and easy to make, good for your body AND good for your brain too? Here is my trail mix that will make you happy and healthy.

Here's Why: 

Research shows that nuts and seeds just might boost your brainpower and balance your moods.

According to Professor James Duke, many varieties of seeds and nuts contain tryptophan, an important amino acid that the brain converts to serotonin. Roasted pumpkin seeds and dry sunflower seeds are an excellent source of tryptophan, making them a safe, natural way to relive mild depression and insomnia. Additionally, sunflower seeds are high in thiamine, an important B vitamin for memory and cognitive function.

Coconut oil provides an alternative fuel source that the brain can use to work optimally once again.

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/040037_coconut_oil_alzheimers_disease_saturated_fats.html#ixzz2ehibCAip

Learn more: http://www.naturalnews.com/019885_nuts_and_seeds_cognitive_function.html#ixzz2ehfE64nC

Ingredients:
Raw sunflower seeds
Raw pumpkin seeds
Dried cranberries
Coconut flakes (unsweetened)


Directions: 
Toast the raw seeds in a non stick skillet on low to med flame. Keep the pan moving and tossing; it will only take a few minutes to get them golden brown.
Mix in the dried cranberries and coconut flakes.
Enjoy!  

Peg Haust-Arliss, LCSW-R is a certified cognitive therapist, strategic interventionist, relationship educator, board certified health coach and soon to be author. 

Check out her websites and grab your free report:
 5 Mistakes You Don't Want to Make (Includes Bonus Recipes!)
www.PegHaust.com  
www.LiveMoreCoach.com

MY CHOCOLATE FANTASY

Love sweets? ME TOO!  That's not a bad thing. In fact, it is completely natural to want them. Throughout evolution we have been programmed to crave them. It's our bodies way to tell us we need energy. However, these days, its crap we tend to reach for.  Cut the crap!  Try my recipe for decadence without the unhealthy additives and toxins.  I offered this smoothie recipe in my Spring Forward Detox online program last month. Just wait to see what's in store for the the summer program Can you say chocolate mint pattie? YUM! 

1/2 Cup to 1 Cup UNSWEETENED Almond or Coconut Milk
1 Ripe Banana
2 TBS Unsweetened Sunbutter
1 TBS Raw Honey
2 TBS Raw Cacoa
Ice

Blend and Enjoy!!  

Live More Every Day,  
Peg
www.PegHaust.com
 

Would love to hear from you! What was your favorite treat growing up? Mine was Butterfinger candy bars and Captain Crunch Cereal! Lord have mercy!  What is it now? Do you have any side effects after eating too much sugar? I get energized then I crash. :(  I'm here to help you break that cycle! 

HOLIDAY HUMMUS

I love making hummus and I don't measure or follow a recipe anymore, but this is a good base.  Once you make it enough times you will start to find that "just right" amount of ingredients for your personal taste. I have been known to be very generous with the garlic and tahini :)
Once you have your base, have fun and add your favorite spices. I love smoked paprika, chili powder, cumin, turmeric just to name a few. Have fun! 

BASE:
1 15 oz can of chickpeas drained
Juice of one lemon
1/3 C Tahini 
3 cloves garlic
1/4 C EVO (optional)
1/2 C Water. Add a little at a time to adjust to your ideal consistency
1/2 tsp of sea salt. Fresh ground pepper to taste

Place all the ingredients in a food processor. Add water as needed a tablespoon or so at a time. You want a smooth creamy consistency, not too watery, not too dry.
Place in a decorative bowl, drizzle with a bit of extra virgin olive oil, sprinkle with paprika and a sprig of parsley.

Serve with your favorite raw vegis, toasted or warmed pita bread or Mary's Gone Crackers

TIPS:
Serve immediately if possible, I find it is more flavorful at room temp.
If you need a bigger batch double everything, but instead of 2 cans of chickpeas try 1 can chickpeas and 1 can cannellini beans.

I would love to know! What are your favorite add ins? Comment below, post or tweet! 


Rise and Shine!
Peg

Peg Haust-Arliss, LCSW-R, CCT, AADP 

Holistic Psychotherapist, Anxiety Specialist,Vegan Health and Lifestyle Coach 

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Owner of Fear To Freedom Holistic Psychotherapy
Visit my website and grab your free Stress and Anxiety Toolkit!