By Carrie Speck, Herbalist and Sultana of Spice
Quite often in my experience as an herbalist, I notice that when people are attempting change the element of a good diet is missing. This might be from lack of time, energy, or knowledge, etc. There’s no judgement, but giving your body the right fuel is vital. If you seek wellness from supplements or herbs, they may help, but progress is hindered if you eat junk food every day. That’s not to say that I don’t enjoy the occasional fast food, or that I’m perfect and cook everything. It’s about finding balance day to day, and week to week.
Our culture leads us to believe that “good habits” will lead to rapid weight loss, and improve health and appearance. Many of these diets fail, mainly because they are conceived with no regards for the sustainability of the plan. In order for a “diet” to be a sustainable long term solution, it would need to address the individual needs for nutrition, practicality, availability, and above all, pleasure. Many “diet” plans also don’t address stress, which is a major co
ntributor in lowering metabolism and aggravating weight gain, and in fact actually compound existing stress levels with restriction mentality, overtraining, and poor nutrition.
Don’t be discouraged! True health and effortless weight management doesn’t come from counting calories, or cutting certain foods, or even working out like a maniac in the gym. It’s about creating a lifestyle for yourself that is sustainable in the long run for you. That lifestyle might include eating one less meal at a restaurantor cooking your meals for the week all at once.
After working at a gourmet food and spice shop, I learned a great deal about all the spices that are available, and I felt inspired to approach food from a different angle. Instead of following food trends and memorizing all the different styles of cooking, I wanted to approach food and spices from the perspective of educating and inspiring people to cook at home with new enthusiasm and crea
tivity, and allowing them to try new things. From a different type of chili, to a new spice rub, or an herbally enhanced healing soup, or a stress reducing and delicious daily tea blend. It doesn’t have to be fancy, it just needs to taste good to you, not a tiresome, daily chore. However, I see so many people discouraged by cooking at home. That’s why we’re working together with M&K Food Shop. We needed help finding our balance too! For those who just don’t have time to cook every meal, or want to try something new, you can pick up wholesome, delicious, nourishing food, without all the preservatives and fillers often served in chain restaurants.
Cooking can be a fun outlet for creativity and health enhancement, with the right tools and knowledge, so come see us for ideas and new spices, but for those days or nights that you just can’t bear to fire up that oven, take the night off, come see Karen at M&K and let her please your palate while she feeds your soul.