A Glimpse into a Heart-Warming Community
A Glimpse into a Heart-Warming Community Four days across the pond w/Mom wasn’t exactly how I envisioned my past week playing out. Still, in a moment of grief for the sudden death of her brother Jim, accompanying my mother to her hometown of Blacklion in County Cavan, Ireland, was what I needed to do to give her comfort. Off we went to the land of green pastures and a culture I had not visited for nearly 32 years. Four days of ceremonious rituals to celebrate a man’s life I hardly remember, but this trip wasn’t about me; it was all for immediate family, or so I thought. If you ever want to be embraced by a society that defines community, traditions, and values, this is a destination you should pay attention to. From the moment we landed until our very quick stay ended, the outreach of love and support reinforced how compassion and the power of unity conquer all in times of grief. Where do I begin? This culture strives to hold on to what bonds humans: an environment where inhabitants appreciate that they have each other in times of need. The generosity, selflessness, and unconditional actions warmed me to the core, mostly because I witnessed first-hand what it meant to my mother and her immediate family who joined us. I will always cherish feeling welcomed, supported, and included. We all have experienced grief, and when these moments are ours to endure, a familiar face, a story, and a hug are the best remedies for healing. My experience this past week in a foreign place gave me a renewed perspective on humanity. I want to keep this feeling close at a time when I feel so much division wrestles with my beliefs of hope and humankind. At times, the ill will and negligence we witness in the world and around us negatively hampers our spirits. Getting into a habit of practicing more community-driven acts could very well raise us above indifference. “When you are in the presence of others that care, you are not alone.” Fr. Loughlain Carolan relayed that message in a beautiful eulogy to honor my late uncle. That phrase went straight to the center of my heart, and in those several words, I surmised the thoughts I was searching for to define all I had witnessed in those three days. Tradition and culture are alive and thriving through generations in this peaceful community where a quick hello is rare. A stranger becomes a friend quickly as people want to talk, get to know you, and offer a smile. Open arms, comforting food, and lots of tea cures all. Thank you, Fr. Carolan, for your compassionate tribute and the well-put summation of all I observed as a spectator. Initially, I felt like that fish out of water, but that uneasiness quickly vanished. I was often addressed not by my name but by the endearing use of the term “love” so frequently I understood that I came as a stranger but left as family. Community and connection are self-care practices we should prioritize and practice regularly. Making the best of an unexpected situation where neighbors come together to aid in the grieving process is a beautiful opportunity to express love, empathy, and kindness. Remember, even the most minor acts of goodwill can be transformative. These actions guide with a greater sense of purpose as its beacon. As the community united in grieving with us, I acknowledged it wasn’t just about direct family members; this community was sorrowful, too. They were Jim’s secondary family; together, we honored his life and memory respectfully. As Irish folklore states, “A stranger is someone you haven’t met yet.” Just as divided as the world seems lately, some will drop it all and lend a kind word, a nod, and loads of freshly baked brown bread (the best!) to show how much they care. In times of sorrow or celebration, collective unity and strength contributed to something larger than all of us, offering reassuring hope and comfort to those who needed it. Up Cavan In good health
Why Do I Have So Much Gas
Why Do I Have So Much Gas? Flatulence, a topic that may cause discomfort, is a normal part of our digestive process. We often feel a sense of privacy or even embarrassment when discussing gas, largely due to societal norms. However, acknowledging that flatulence is a regular bodily function can help alleviate unease or fear of judgment. Despite the social stigma, fostering a more open dialogue about digestive health is crucial in normalizing the discussion and making us feel more comfortable and less anxious. Flatulence, or gas, is a natural bodily function; understanding its reasons is vital. Our complex digestive system is crucial in this process and can be better comprehended for favorable management. Certain foods and drinks are more likely to cause gas than others due to their composition and how our digestive system processes them. The typical suspects are high-fiber foods like legumes, cruciferous vegetables, whole grains, artificial sweeteners, fried foods, highly processed foods, and dairy. One culprit could be a lack of the enzyme lactase found in foods containing lactose in dairy products. Another offender is high-fat and fried foods, which slow digestion and cause food to ferment in the gut. Furthermore, artificial sweeteners often found in gums and sugar-free foods contain sugar alcohols that are not fully absorbed by the body, leading to uncomfortable bloating and gas. Other gas-producing foods (for some) are garlic, onions, certain nuts and seeds, and additives and preservatives often found in convenience foods. On the other hand, foods improperly broken down without sufficient digestive enzymes in the small intestine cause harmful bacteria in our large intestine to feast on these undigested particles, fermenting the waste matter. Digestive enzymes, which are proteins that help break down food into smaller, more absorbable components, play a crucial role in this process. When these enzymes are lacking or underlying health issues are not addressed, undigested food particles can reach the large intestine, which becomes food for harmful bacteria. This bacterium develops into a foul-smelling gas, unlike the odorless stems from eating too quickly, not chewing properly, swallowing air, or drinking carbonated beverages. While some gas is typical, foul-smelling gas that becomes persistent and accompanied by other symptoms like abdominal pain, bloating, weight loss, diarrhea, or constipation can be a red flag. These irregular issues could indicate potential health issues such as dysbiosis, infections, food intolerances, or malabsorption. If you notice changes without a clear dietary cause, like sulfur-rich foods or dairy products, these could be signs to consider speaking to a healthcare professional. Taking this proactive step could help ensure your digestive health is in check. Feeling empowered to discuss digestive health, including topics like gas, instead of hiding them leads to a more healthy, open, and honest approach to optimal well-being. Whether for yourself or a loved one, an open dialogue of sharing experiences or concerns creates a safe space, reduces anxiety, and improves health awareness. This open discussion can help us feel more comfortable and less anxious about our digestive health. In good health!
Learning to Drop a Curveball
Learning to Drop a Curveball is part of the journey At one time, anxiety ruled my life. I tried to cover my feelings and plowed through the day, getting things done. At that time, my feelings on the subject were that selfish people indulged in self-care, and it was nowhere on my radar. Sure, I exercised and made a healthy dinner, but from the time I got up to hit the gym early till my head hit the pillow, there was NEVER downtime. Early childhood memories were of a family where something always needed to be done, and we kept ourselves busy to avoid discipline. How I translated that into my adult life is funny and somewhat sad. My strong work ethic equated to being hardworking and prosperous, but the expectations I put on myself were physically making me sick. Life is always going to throw curveballs our way. This informal way of defining an unexpected or challenging situation shouldn’t predict a long-term sense of unfairness and angst. We may try too quickly to solve the problem without the proper tools. On the other hand, a curveball could leave someone stuck in a self-sabotaging pit where it is perceived that there is no way out. Letting that figurative ball drop may be the best way to handle the situation effectively. Even with my best efforts to correct my digestive issue, it wasn’t until a doctor wrote in my health portal, “Ellen is very anxious.” I knew I was giving myself nothing but more problems unless I addressed my coping mechanisms and my mental state. I needed some balance in body, mind, and spirit. That doctor unknowingly gave me a gift that day. The excessive stress I thought I was hiding so well was busting at the seams and keeping me from getting well. Sometimes, we all need or should examine lifestyle practices to repair, restore, and revitalize. I didn’t face those curveballs head-on because I wasn’t skilled enough to address that difficult challenge successfully. Let the curveball drop, retreat, and strategize what’s next: Modify your mindset Giving yourself a break Shift and fine-tuning daily routines Align with a solution Be at peace with trying your best every day Life has curveballs, and as frustrating as the unexpected is, we don’t have to overreact. Go ahead and feel whatever emotions arise, but letting those feelings go is critical so they do not hamper your good intentions. Remember that fear holds us back, and courage facilitates change. It’s okay to be impacted by an unexpected disappointment if you don’t wallow in it too long. Choose determination over despair and make those situations a learning opportunity. Making time for yourself is a self-care act worth the effort. Remember, it’s okay to seek support if you feel overwhelmed. Prioritize what truly matters, as this is sometimes more effective than trying to handle everything at once. Find a balance between activity and rest, and always remember that you’re not alone in this journey. There are people and resources to help you facilitate harmony when it feels out of your control. In good health!
Spiral Zoodle Pasta
This is a delicious way to experiment with a wide range of flavors that come together in a delightful meal. If you are in Reset, substitutions are noted. .
Verde Veggie Jackfruit Tacos
I like to be prepared with ingredients at home. We can’t always be on top of meal prep, but I did have a can of jack fruit, black beans, veggies, and some green enchilada sauce. I always have tortillas in the freezer and made some of my vegan queso earlier in the week because you can always do something with that as it is a versatile sauce with many uses. The beauty of this recipe is that I encourage you to use veggies you like and feel free to switch up the greens, switch up the pepper with diced broccoli, and omit the chilis if that’s not your jam. You will still come up with a delicious filling that will be delicious and provide nourishment. Vegan Queso Nut cheeses seem to be all the rage, but we must be mindful of too much saturated fat in our diets for optimal gut health. Therefore, I created a plant-based queso with oats, carrots, and red pepper as the main ingredients. This tasty queso is versatile, creamy, and a snap to make for dishes all week long. For example, a veggie bowl, a baked potato, dipping sauce for roasted veggies, tacos, quesadillas, or skillet nachos
Hearty Hearts of Palm Stir-fry
Stir-frying is a valuable method used to cook vegetables quickly over high heat, preserving nutrients for maximum retention. You are also getting a variety of nutrients in one meal. Using the hearts of palm noodles knocked it out of the park here providing a variety of vitamins and minerals you typically don’t find in your run-of-the-mill pastas. I used an orange teriyaki sauce and added in a sticky ginger tempeh. Of course, this is customizable to suit your specific tastes and needs but I’ve provided a quick and easy recipe below for when you want a nutritious gut-friendly meal on the table to feed those microbes.
Cream of the Crop Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup is versatile and a perfect example of a soup that allows for a wide range of ingredients, flavors, and herbs to meld into one nutritious meal for all. Low in calories and high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. In addition, cabbage soup is often known for its anti-inflammatory properties with the presence of a hefty dose of antioxidant-rich ingredients. Remember, most soups, if there are extras are wonderful the next day.
Chai Pear & Apple Compote
This simple, nutritious, and satisfying stewed fruit made with warming spices is the perfect way to add much-needed fiber, vitamins, and minerals to a meal. The compote, with no added sugars, can be eaten alone or added to buckwheat cereal (pictured), oatmeal, parfaits, granola, pancakes and so much more! Pears, just like apples are a nutrient powerhouse containing an array of minerals we are often lacking. The chai spice is added for the delightful flavor but also its anti-inflammatory properties. Cinnamon helps balance blood sugar and ginger and turmeric join in too with additional gut-friendly benefits. Cardamon and nutmeg have chemical compounds that are anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory.
Get Your Green Salad Dressing
Embrace the perks of added greens by making your salad dressing at home. Freshness, customize as you wish, and control over quality ingredients far outweigh store-bought. Use up extra greens, reduce waste, save money, and reap a full spectrum of nutrient benefits.
Crunchy Chopped Asian Tofu & Cabbage Slaw
This recipe from my first book has been revived and polished up for your gut-friendly library of meal selections. This delicious combination of plant-based nutrition is superior in nutrients, but the varied flavors and textures will have you assembling it all summer long. It is an excellent meal rich in fiber, heart-healthy fats and plant-based protein. When your weekly menu features plant diversity, you provide your gut microbiome with a wide range of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds that aid in and protect against diseases and reduce whole-body inflammatory response. Satisfy and enhance your pallet with this convenient option that holds up well for a second-day meal.