Something funny happened to me today, as I leaned over my kitchen counter. Beginning to clean it, once again.

It was around 1pm. I’d made a mess. A small, hurried one, but one that definately required a few minutes of rinsing and tidying in order before I could get back to work. I started thinking about how some people are usually annoyed at this thought. I am too, sometimes. To have to spend any amount of time assembling or making their food.

Why waste that time, when you can easily grab something pre-made, and without extra effort of any kind? 

Because it matters. To me, at least. And to everyone else around me. Anyone I come in contact with throughout the day- on the phone, in person or over email.

Eating well is not just something I do because I want to be healthy.

It’s a complete value that I live my life by. I’m not bothered by the thought or effort of it, because the reasons I eat well serve such a higher purpose in my life, than vanity or fads or any of it.

It got me thinking. It’s really true:  you have to have a deeper reason for WHY you want to eat and be healthy, otherwise you’ll tire, or get lazy or just want to give up.

Because it IS more effort (although not necessarily more time if you’re doing things right) to think and to prepare your food. But it’s also a privilege.

I eat well so I can live and operate at my highest potential every day- giving and doing more than I thought I could when I woke up that morning.

And yes, it took me an extra 10 minutes to make (and clean up) this lunch smoothie, but I can’t think of anything more worth my time for the way that it impacts my day, mood, energy and ability to give more good to others. Because I believe that is what we are all here to do, in some capacity or another.

Try reminding yourself of that the next time you are too tired to make something quick and easy and good for you. It happens to all of us. But it’s always always worth it. In such a bigger way than you can imagine.

Why do you eat well? Tell me too in the comments below. 

The Power Up Green Smoothie

Notes: This smoothie will have you buzzing with energy and full of amazing nutrients, protein and healthy fats to fuel whatever your day will bring. 

4-5 stalks kale, spinach or romaine lettuce

1/2 cup coconut water

1/2 avocado

1/2 banana

2 teaspoons hemp protein powder (optional, I love the Sun Warrior or Manitoba Harvest hemp protein)

1-2 teaspoons cashew butter (or peanut/almond or a handful of nuts of your choice) (optional)

1 teaspoon chia seeds

1 teaspoon maca powder

1 medjool date, pit removed

sprinkle of unsweetened cocoa nibs

In a blender, combine all ingredients except the cocoa nibs with 1 cup water. Blend. Add ice, and continue to blend until smooth. Sprinkle with cocoa nibs to serve.

Notes: if you prefer thicker smoothies, add less water. If you like a thinner consistency, add more water. If you want it sweeter, add 1-2 dates, a splash of real vanilla extract or a small handful of your favorite fruit. 

 

 

Love this recipe? You’d love the cookbook then too. And be sure to check out the brand new Food Academy, now open for enrollment, and the seasonal meal plans!