I used to think that ‘wellness’ meant doing it all from scratch. But I’ve realized that true health lives at the intersection of Salt and Soul. Salt is the practical reality of my life as a busy mama—the need for efficiency and a break from the mental load. Soul is my desire to sit down to a nourishing, home-cooked meal…
Category: Food and Mental Health
Exploring the relationship between food and mental well-being. Discuss recipes and dietary choices that may positively impact mental health, stress reduction, and overall well-being.
Why You Feel “Heavy” (Even When the Scale Doesn’t Move)
The Sticky Truth About Dampness and Your Health For years, I couldn’t figure out why I felt so sluggish and ‘foggy’ every late summer. It wasn’t just heat—it was a heavy, sinking feeling that made even small tasks feel like wading through water. It wasn’t until my TCM practitioner explained the concept of Dampness that the lightbulb…
Feeling Bloated After Meals? FODMAPs Might Be the Culprit
Have you ever finished a meal and suddenly felt like your belly turned into a balloon? Or maybe you’ve had unexpected cramps, gas, or irregular bathroom habits that seem to appear out of nowhere. It might not just be what you’re eating—it could be how your body is digesting it. Let’s talk about FODMAPs. It might…
Proof That Salads Don’t Have to Suck
So, in the past I had a salad at a restaurant that I totally fell in love with. Light, fresh, a little sweet, and a little savoury—the kind of dish that actually fills you up without leaving you feeling heavy. I fell in love with a salad exactly like that a while ago, and naturally,…
Breaking Free from Food Rules, Finding True Nourishment
I used to think “eating healthy” meant following a long list of strict rules: no carbs after 6, drink this before that, no more than 1,200 calories a day, count every gram of protein, fat, and carb and definitely no dessert unless it was made with dates and almond flour. I tried almost everything. Some…
Understanding TCM Body Constitutions: A Beginner’s Perspective
I was born and raised in Canada, but growing up in a Chinese household, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was always present in my life, thanks to my mom. Whenever we were sick, it wasn’t Tylenol or the usual Western remedies. Instead, my mom would brew up some bitter herbal tea that, to be honest, tasted…
A Year of Letting Go and Finding Balance
This past year has been a journey of high highs and some very real lows. Life was beautiful and busy—baseball tournaments, family travel, and a big trip to Japan. I have to admit I let loose with food, didn’t always make the best choices, and definitely didn’t get the rest I needed. Jet lag, travel stress, and…
Eating Well in Winter: TCM’s Guide to Staying Warm and Nourished
Winter’s officially here, and let’s be honest – who doesn’t crave a cozy, warm bowl of something comforting? But it’s more than just satisfying those cravings. What we eat this time of year can seriously impact how we feel. In Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM), winter is all about holding onto your energy, supercharging your immune system,…
Embrace the Dark Side
We always hear about “eating the rainbow,” but today I want to shine a light on the most underrated part of the spectrum: Black Foods. These dark foods are more than just a unique addition to your dinner plate; they offer a lot of value when it comes to both flavour and nutrition. I like to…
Healthy New Year’s Resolutions for a Vibrant 2024!
As we head into a brand new year, I’m really trying to focus on what actually helps me feel better—without diving into some extreme diet or going all out at the gym (because let’s be real… I’ve got kids, a home to run, and a million other things on my plate). Instead, I’m looking at the small,…
Plant-Based Nutrition for Beginners: A Simple Guide to Eating More Plants
Thinking about adding more plants to your plate? You’re not alone! Plant-based eating has been gaining popularity for good reason—it’s tasty, versatile, and a great way to nourish your body and the planet. Let’s break it down together, nice and simple. What Is Plant-Based Nutrition? Eating plant-based might sound fancy, but it’s really simple—it’s about…
Exploring the World of Soba Salad
Soba noodles and the concept of soba noodle salad originated in Japan. Soba noodles are thin noodles made primarily from buckwheat flour or a combination of buckwheat and wheat flour. They have a mild nutty taste and a firm texture, making them perfect for various flavours. Soba noodles have been a key part of Japanese…
Tiny Wonders, Big Flavour
Ever wondered about those tiny, tasty seeds you often find in your pesto or salads? Yep, I’m talking about pine nuts! They’re these little gems that come from pine cones and they are so flavourful. Pine nuts have been a part of many recipes for years, offering a unique touch to some of our favourites….
The Sweet Truth: Is Dark Chocolate Good for Your Health?
Ever wondered if that dark chocolate you love is actually good for you? Well, you’re not alone! Dark chocolate has been popular for quite sometime, but there’s this whole debate about whether it’s healthy or not. Dark chocolate is made up of three main ingredients: cocoa solids, cocoa butter, and sugar. Cocoa solids provide that…
Sip the Goodness: Beet Juice and Beyond
Curious about all the hype around beet juice? It’s not just a trend; it’s a healthy drink loaded with lots of benefits. This juice, squeezed from those plain red veggies, is gaining popularity among health enthusiasts. Let’s take a look at what makes this simple drink so intriguing and why it’s worth adding to your daily…