{HMW} The BEST summer of your life edition☀️
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Dear Reader Anyone else starting to feel the summer slow-down? If you're a Mom like me, June is nutso with end-of-year recitals, graduation parties, performances and more....or as I like to call it, the squall before the silence. Just around the summer solstice, my girls start their summer jobs and camp and things just get....calm. Summer is when I get a break from constant carpooling, cooking for 5 and managing everyone's schedule (often to the detriment of my own) If you too are starting to long for the serenity of summer and want some tips to really savor your summer slow-down here are my best tips. Make time for Play: Engaging in play is vital for adults' mental health as it reduces stress, enhances social connections, and boosts physical well-being; research shows that physical activity and nature exposure, common in summer play, significantly improve mood and reduce anxiety. Consider Decluttering: We have already decided on some projects this year including going through our closets and decluttering our garage which may or may not include mac computers from the '80's that have been turned into fish bowls by my husband. Decluttering projects positively impact mental health by reducing stress levels, improving mood, and increasing feelings of control and productivity; research suggests that a tidy environment can lead to reduced cortisol levels and enhanced cognitive function, promoting overall well-being. Find your Creative Spark: Finding your creative spark is crucial for happiness as creative expression has been linked to lower levels of stress and anxiety, increased positive emotions, and improved overall well-being; studies indicate that engaging in creative activities activates the brain's reward pathways, leading to feelings of satisfaction and fulfillment. This can include writing, painting, cooking, baking, multi-media, photography or anything that allows you to just create. Do absolutely nothing: There is honestly nothing that makes me happier than chilling in our covered porch, on some cozy camping chairs, just enjoying watching the flora, fauna and wildlife in our backyard. Having no deadlines, expectation demands, hurrying around and responsibilities, even if it's for only 15 minutes, can give your brain and mood a refresh that extends way past that short time. What are your best summer-slow-down tips? Have it: If you like wordle, you'll love Bandle! Interesting article alert: Too much screen time can cause "Screen Apnea" Made it: New Substack Article: 5-senses Sunday Summer 2024 is gonna be HOT. Want it: What a unique new food concept! 51 Beach reads for a relaxing summer: Ingredient Spotlight: Kale Kale is a nutritional marvel, boasting an impressive array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. It's rich in vitamins A, C, and K, providing essential nutrients that support immune function, skin health, and bone strength. Kale's high fiber content aids in digestion and helps lower cholesterol levels, promoting heart health. Additionally, it contains omega-3 fatty acids and glucosinolates, which have anti-inflammatory and cancer-preventive properties. With its various types, including Curly, Lacinato, and Red Russian, kale offers versatility in culinary applications, from salads and smoothies to sautéed dishes and soups, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Here are some of my favorite ways to prepare and eat kale: Salads: Massage Raw Leaves: Massaging kale with a bit of olive oil or lemon juice softens its texture and reduces bitterness. Combining Ingredients: Mix with fruits, nuts, other veggies and a tangy dressing to balance flavors. Sautéing: Quick Cooking: Heat olive oil in a pan, add garlic, and sauté kale until wilted, about 5-7 minutes. Seasoning: Season with salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice or soy sauce for added flavor. Kale Chips: Preparation: Toss kale leaves with olive oil, salt, and optional spices. Baking: Bake at 300°F (150°C) for 20-25 minutes until crispy. Smoothies: Blending: Combine fresh or frozen kale with fruits, yogurt, and a liquid base like almond milk. Nutrient Boost: Add chia seeds, flaxseeds, or protein powder for extra nutrition. Enjoy these 30 interesting recipes featuring Kale Announcements & Upcoming: Not much this week! :-) Extra Bytes: What I'm reading: Scarcity Brain, by Michael Easter What I'm watching: Nothing too exciting this week but I can't wait for The Bear, season 3 to start at the end of the month! What I'm listening to: Maintenance Phase Podcast What I'm eating: Tofu Marsala with Roasted Mustard Herb Green Beans & Buttery Mashed Potatoes That's it for me this week! I hope everyone has a happy and healthy hump day! Warmly, Jenny PS. If you enjoy this newsletter and get value from it, consider buying me a coffee! I like oat milk in mine. :-) Thank you! |