Green Smoothie
We are all living through such a crazy time right now. The coronavirus pandemic has changed the way we live. In our house we have been taking every precaution we can, washing our hands, only going to the stores when we need to and always wearing a mask in public. Doing all that we can to (hopefully) keep us from contracting the virus but the cost of this new way of life can take a toll mentally. I know it has certainly filled my days with more anxiety. It has limited the time I get to see friends and family (I really miss hugging everyone!). I have been back at work but wearing a mask for hours on end makes breathing really, really hard. And what used to seem like simple, regular tasks like going to the grocery store or running into an old friend on the street (uhhh fist bump or air hug) now seem to flood me with instant anxiety.
Now, I figure I can’t be the only one. I’m sure I am not alone in the struggle to adjust to this ‘new normal’ and I think it is important to find things that can continue to bring happiness and maybe even some normalcy to your life.
I usually try to spend time outside because nature is so healing, however lately with the heat and mosquitos I can’t say it’s been bringing me much joy. I often attempt yoga which typically involves a few stretches followed by laying on my yoga mat with Gus (my sweet dog). Sometimes I try to meditate… and that is hard. I follow guided meditations which sometimes leave me feeling relaxed and other times I want to throw my phone across the room. Now food, food always brings me joy! I mean give me some cheese and bread and a glass of wine and I will be happy as a clam… until I try to put my jeans on and they no longer fit. The struggle is real.
I know, I’m rambling here… so what's the point: balance. In these wild times I think we have to remember it's ok to feel off and confused and anxious and sometimes trying to meditate while you are feeling stressed about life isn’t going to work so don’t beat yourself up over it. There may be days where you are exhausted from trying to navigate life and just want to curl up on the couch with some chocolate and wine and watch a movie… so do it. And tomorrow start your day with a walk outside and maybe a green smoothie!
This smoothie has been my breakfast most days over the last few weeks. Everything goes into the blender until it is really smooth, and almost juice like. So it is quick and easy as I try to get a morning routine back. The ingredients are super healthy and fill this smoothie with vitamins as well as ingredients that aid in digestion and help to naturally hydrate your body. The flavor is bright with a little kick from cayenne and ginger which help to wake me up in the morning. And best of all I know I am starting off my day on the right foot. So if everything else goes downwards and I get home and only want carbs for dinner, then at least I know I started the day strong and I can do so again tomorrow.
Healthy Green Smoothie
Ingredients:
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 small cucumber
- 2 stalks celery
- 3/4 cup frozen mango
- 1/2 inch piece of ginger
- juice of half a lemon
- pinch of cayenne (adjust for your flavor preference)
- 1/2 cup water
Instructions:
- BLEND: Put all the ingredients into a high powered blender and blend until smooth. Add more or less water to reach your desired consistency. Serve in a glass over ice!
Notes:
This is a guideline to how I make the smoothie, but if you want it a little sweeter, you can add more mango or if you don't want the spice, leave the cayenne out. Try it different ways to find what works for you!