Momentum in May
Momentum in May
Written By: Connie Pshigoda
Ah-h-h, May, a truer representation of Spring, at least here in Colorado. I’ve become accustomed to the Winter-Into-Spring-Battle that frequently wages into May. Gardeners know that it is usually safe to plant around Mother’s Day––although that is not a guarantee.
I do love Winter, however, I am always ready to welcome Spring. My yard is beautiful in Springtime, with fragrant Lilacs and blossoming trees. Purple crocus, yellow daffodils and multicolored tulips brighten my flower beds. The Springtime energy of my yard overflows into my inner spirit giving me encouragement to set new goals and revive my momentum from its Winter rhythm.
The warmer temps of May invite me to take my “work-ins” from my basement fitness area to “work-outs” on the walking paths and bike trails. It’s a glorious season!
The events surrounding Spring of 2020 have prompted me to nudge myself daily, as new circumstance with the Covid-19 pandemic and its side-effects (social-distancing, mask mandates, extra-sanitizing, quarantines, empty shelves and long lines) caused a lingering heaviness and procrastination in me.
It is vital in this new era that we allow May to awaken us to wellness opportunities that improve our total wellbeing––physically-mentally-emotionally-spiritually:
• Mother’s Day became “essential” this May as prioritized family gathering time.
• Mental Health Awareness is also more “essential” this spring, with everyone’s mental abilities being stretched in this different-behavior season.
• National Women’s Health Month is another “essential” consideration as several medical and wellness facilities were closed or greatly limited in providing services.
• Older Americans Month also took on a new level of “essential” with the “shelter-in-place” orders that restricted visitors into elder care homes and facilities.
There are numerous daily-weekly-monthly events to celebrate in the month of May, and I believe most people world-wide are rethinking their priorities. It is refreshing to hear of the many creative ways families are getting together while still observing the social-distancing guidelines.
In 2007 I wrote: “We are at a time economically, environmentally, politically, socially and spiritually in which optimum wellness is of critical importance.” That statement––my personal belief––is even more relevant in 2020. It is a good––and responsible––plan to take charge of our personal Immune System. When we have prepared and practiced for prevention, then high alert circumstances, such as we are currently experiencing, don’t “rock the boat” of our health.
Gaining a simple understanding of how the Immune System works, provides valuable information on daily steps we may take to maintain a high level of wellness. A strong Immune System results when all areas of the Immune System are strong and responsive. The antibody pathways need to be functioning optimally, fighter and killer cells need to be alert to pathogens entering the body, and inflammation should be minimal in the body. Current technology, science and discovery make access to a variety of immune support nutrients and supplements possible.
Maintaining homeostasis (balance) in all the body’s 11 systems insure effective immune response when or if a crisis occurs. These simple nutritional and lifestyle “starters” may help you gain momentum in May for a strong completion of 2020:
• Less Soda/Coffee - More Water
• Less Alcohol - More Green Tea
• Less Sugar - More Fruit (berries are in season now)
• Less Meat - More Vegetables
• Less Driving - More Walking/Biking
• Less Worry - More Relaxation
• Less Anger - More Laughter
• Less Television/Computer/Devices - More Conversation
• Less Sitting - More Action
Savor this Season of Momentum!
Try this Spring Mixed Greens ‘n Berries Salad for a Spring energy boost!
1 14-ounce package of Mixed Spring Greens (spinach, arugula, lettuces)
1 cup baby Kale - massage the Kale to break down the cell wall to reduce bitterness
2 Tbsp. finely chopped fresh basil
1 scallion, finely chopped
1 pint blackberries
1 pint raspberries
2 Tbsp pomegranate balsamic vinegar or regular balsamic vinegar
3/4 cup EV olive oil
1 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
2 Tbsp fresh lemon zest
1/2 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
1/2 cup sliced almonds, lightly toasted
1/2 cup feta, crumbled
• In large mixing bowl, add the greens, scallion, fruits, then gently toss to combine then set aside.
• In an empty pint jar, add the olive oil, vinegar, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt and pepper, cover with lid and shake the jar vigorously until completely combined, about 10-seconds.
• Drizzle dressing over greens and fruit until lightly coated. Toss gently. Reserve the remaining dressing.
• Top salad with feta and sliced almonds. Serve immediately. Use remaining dressing as needed for desired taste.
Connie’s Comments:
• Your amazing body is quite efficient in internal cleansing and detoxing. When you give it the appropriate ingredients (healthy diet, adequate sleep, regular fitness, rest and hydration), your body will reward you with health and vitality. This Spring recipe combines the goodness of whole grains with fresh greens and berries and a healthy fat for cleansing and energizing health!
• For a “stand-alone” salad, add 2 cups cooked whole-grain brown rice or quinoa with a couple tablespoons of ground flax seed stirred in for a heartier meal. You may want to omit the feta with the grains.
• As a side salad, this greens and berries compliments grilled salmon or chicken nicely.
• For a fruit variety, replace listed fruits or add to: sliced strawberries, fresh blueberries, dried cherries or raisins.
• Fruits need fats to balance their acidity and sweetness. Select a quality oil for the dressing or add chopped avocado to the salad.
