“Health, contentment, and trust are your greatest possessions, and freedom your greatest joy!” ~ Buddha
Photo Credit: Instagram – @wholefoods
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Last week I unplugged from regular life and headed to downtown Minneapolis for a bit of R & R. I needed some large chunks of quiet, along with a break from life's everydays
Between the garden, a career job, pets, school, The Veggies, and keeping a household running. Admittedly, I was feeling it
Some truth?
It's tough for me to determine if part of this comes with age, or that I simply don't remember feeling this way in my 30s. There are days I wake up with lots of sparks of inspiration; I sit on the sofa with my breakfast, and the words flow effortlessly onto the page. I make it through yoga without withering in the heat. Dinner simmers on the stovetop when my husband comes home from work
Then there are days when I feel anxious and insecure. Oddly, a bit lost, even though (intellectually) I know there's nothing to worry about. These are the mornings when I can't find the right words, listen to the voices of doubt, and my to-do list sits untouched
For the longest time, I'd get down on myself and power through. Instead, I've decided there's a certain beauty in taking stock of yourself (for better or worse). In peering into your own blue eyes; in surveying the wrinkles and the grays and your innermost imperfections and saying to you and you alone
“I think you’re fine just the way you are.”
There are far worse things; this I am sure
It doesn't rid me of anxiety and doubts, but now that I'm able to see them for what they are. I'm able to treat myself like I would a friend, go for a walk and realize this too shall pass. Knowing they come when I'm overwhelmed, in perfectionist mode, needing some extra self-care
— —
While I was away, I spent my days sampling soup and salads at Whole Foods, taking CorePower Yoga classes (ps: they're incredible) .. riding my bike along the river, and working on a 30+ research paper about detoxification
I stand in awe of how beautifully and wonderfully we've been made and thought it would be fun to do another short series to share parts of it here
What is Detoxification?
Simply defined, it's the removal of toxins from the body. When something toxic is identified, our detox system disarms it by neutralizing or transforming it into something that isn't harmful. That way it can safely be eliminated
This isn't something that happens only on special occasions. Every cell has a built-in mechanism to clear waste; every single cell(!) and they're hard at work 24 x 7
The parts of our body dedicated to detox are the cells, skin, blood, lymph, gastrointestinal system, kidneys, and liver.
Removal of toxins starts in the cells. The waste then is moved into the blood and the lymph. From there, it's carried to the liver, kidneys, and colon. How effectively we accomplish the task depends on a person's health, genetics, their environmental exposures, and to a large degree their diet.
As you can imagine, diet is hugely important because these systems require nutrients for them to function at their best. We need good circulation to deliver nutrients to the cells. We need cells that are strong, able to receive the nutrients and excrete the waste
When our cells aren't able to get rid of waste, sometimes because of lack of nutrients or excessive toxins; they get sick. Our bodies truly get sick
one cell at a time
With over seventy-two thousand known man-made chemicals in circulation(!), it's impossible to avoid pollutants altogether
But we do have a choice, and it's important to be proactive in reducing our total toxic load.
A few examples
What we purchase, what we put in, on or around our bodies matters a great deal. We can lower our total toxic load by eating organic foods. We can purchase cleaning and beauty products that are less harmful to our bodies and also the environment
While we can't always control the air we breathe or water we drink; we can use air and water filters in our homes
Since we can't avoid toxicity altogether, our next best thing is to support the detoxification system with periodic cleansing. This will facilitate the release of any backed up or stored toxins
A few we'll touch on later in the series?
Simplified eating and choosing a catabolic (or cleansing) diet. Liver and gall bladder flushes, gentle fasting, sweat therapy, and hydrotherapy. We can take certain supplements that support our detoxification systems and also a variety of herbs. Exercise is also a great way to help flush of toxins out of our cells and get them into circulation so, we're able to clear them
What's the difference between an internal and external toxin? What happens to those our body isn't able to clear? What are some we come into contact every day? (I was shocked) What about plastics?
I'd encourage you to have a green smoothie recipe as part of your healthy lifestyle (and detox) arsenal. In choosing one (or creating your own), there are several variables. If you miss the mark on any of them – well, no one is fond of a swampy blender beverage
When I'm in green smoothie mode, there are a few things I consider. I want it to be filling, energizing, and nutritious. I like my smoothie to be packed with greens, vibrant in color, smooth, rich, and luxe in texture.
Flavor is essential, and because kale (and many other greens) can tend toward bitter, balancing the ratio of greens to other ingredients is important.
The one I've been loving lately comes from Kimberly Snyder. Her approach and ratios are spot on. The result? An invigorating, bottom's up, morning Kickstarter made from lettuce, spinach, celery, apple, pear, banana, and lemon juice
She calls it her go-to smoothie because “You would never think a bright green drink would be so delicious, but it is(!)” She offers up a number of easy variations and encourages her readers to mix and match seasonal greens and fruit. It's a brilliant go-to
A few notes:
It keeps really well covered in the fridge for a couple of days.
If you're busy, you can make a big batch once a week and freeze it in portion-sized glass containers. Put your serving for the next day in the fridge the night before to thaw
Organic ingredients are always best (as your budget allows)
Enjoy!
xoxo
~ Adapted from The Beauty Detox Solution: Eat Your Way to Radiant Skin, Renewed Energy and the Body You've Always Wanted by Kimberly Snyder
Glowing Green Smoothie
Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 head romaine lettuce, chopped
- ½ head of a large bunch (or ¾ of small bunch spinach)
- 3-4 stalks organic celery
- 1 apple, cored and chopped
- 1 pear, cored and chopped
- 1 banana
- Juice of ½ of a lemon
- Optional
- ⅓ bunch cilantro (stems are okay)
- ⅓ bunch parsley (stems are okay)
- scoop of protein powder
Instructions
- Add the water, chopped head of romaine and spinach to the blender.
- Starting the blender on low, mix until smooth.
- Gradually moving to higher speeds, add the celery, apple, and pear.
- Add the cilantro, parsley, and protein powder (if using).
- Add the banana and lemon juice last
- Blend until smooth
49 Comments
Since my mom passed, I have been bingeing on junkfood. I really need to get back into a healthy eating routine one of these days. This smoothie would be a good start.
I have been dealing with some anxiety and depression for about two years now. There are toxins inside of the body that aren’t physical like those feelings that I wish could easily be removed.
Sometimes I think you just need to get away. I think it is your body telling you that you need a break. I have never tried to detoxify my body but I do know it would probably make me feel better after.
I have to admit. I have never had a green smoothie. But after seeing the ingredients in this recipe, seems like the perfect choice for my body which I know will love.
I am not a huge fan of green smoothies probably because my magic bullet doesn’t blend leafy greens that good. When I detox, I do it mostly from fruits and alcohol and I seem to be 20 times more hydrated.
Smoothies have always been a tough sell for me. I love juice, but smoothies, not so much. I love all the ingredients in this smoothie, however. I wonder if I should bend it super smooth, or strain it.
I have had some really good green smoothies in the past. I don’t like the texture of some of them though, so I am really picky about the ingredients.
Oh yum I definitely need to give this a try – it sounds like it would be a good way to detox and tasty too!
First I want to say I love how beautiful your photos are! I’ve always been scared to detox because I an what is considered an extreme anemic but I find myself being super sluggish through out the day.. partially because I am raising two children, lol! Do you honestly think this will help?
I’ve been on a junk food binge for a while now. Depression and anxiety issues make it hard to eat right…or want to eat right at least.
It happens. We can’t have inspiration all the time. I’m 20 and I still have times when I lack inspiration. You should just trust that the inspiration will come back eventually.
I totally relate to you with a lot about what you mentioned here! Glad to know I’m not alone during those different seasons and feelings of life! I’ve been on the hunt for a good green smoothie that I can tolerate (I’m like a child when it comes to veggies) so I think I’ll try this recipe out! I’m in need of all of the benefits it has to offer! 🙂
A detox is so good for your body. You are so right that our body is exposed to soooo many chemicals everyday. A green smoothie is a great idea.
I have heard a lot about detoxes but I have never really done one before. I could definitely use a reset sometimes.
I can see why it’s important to do what we can to clear out some of the toxic chemicals we ingest and produce. It would probably be pretty easy to start making green smoothies like this regularly. I wonder how quickly I’d feel a difference!
The taste of the fruits was most prominent so it didn’t taste ‘green’. This one’s a keeper!
I MUST begin a detox. Unfortunately every green beverage makes me sick just on sight?Anyway I think I might give a try! Im allergic to celery, how can I replace it?
My husband has been on a green smoothie kick as of late. At first, I wasn’t so sure, but then I realized how much better they made me feel all day long. We’re really excited to give this one a try! x
I need to go through the effort to do a detox. I have been feeling so crummy and I need to make the effort to change all of that!
So, although the color is not my favorite, it sounds pretty delish. I wonder, do you taste the banana much? I have to be mindful about many of the smoothies because so many have banana in them & I have always had a loathing of the taste. Otherwise, I am still willing to give it a try minus the ‘nana.
I bought a Vitamix last year and in addition to making hot and cold soups and sauces, I have started making smoothies. On occasion, I make my own variety of green smoothies with matcha, green apples, banana, berries, and occasionally a kale leaf since I love kale. Truth be told, I love vegetables, but I prefer them in a salad rather than a smoothie. The green color of your smoothie is beautiful.
I agree, the color is not that appetizing but the ingredients sound great. My kids love when I make them smoothies for breakfast. I love sneaking in great veggies and fruits! 😉 Mom for the win!! Detox is a great option for summertime because there are so many great fresh fruits and veggies available.
I really need to detox my body. It appears that I have fallen back in a slump with eating. You are so correct we do need to release our body from all those chemicals. I may try this recipe soon.
Hey, fellow Twin Citian 🙂 Didn’t know you were in MN, too. I love what you wrote about taking care of ourselves, the stress, anxiety, and the whole shebang. There are definitely so many things I notice/deal with now that I’m past my 30’s…some great, some not so great! By the way, my friends love Power Yoga and I really want to give it a try…just got into yoga this past year, which has helped a lot with de-stressing and balancing out my running. And yes to Whole Foods. ?
I started drinking green smoothies a few year ago and I couldn’t believe the difference it made in how I looked and felt! After moving to Europe where HFCS doesn’t exist and food safety standards are much stricter than in the US, I’ve become so much more aware of what I eat and drink.
There is nothing wrong with a little detox to help and flush toxins out of the body. A lot of the time we don’t to stop to think about everything we consume. This is a good way to start being healthier.
I love a good smoothie in the morning before work. I don’t always have the time to mix this many veggies into it though. I tend to stick with spinach and mango nectar blended with ice.
I think we all have days/weeks/months like this, to be honest. Sometimes all you need is a decent night’s sleep, a bit of R&R and some vitamin C/D 🙂 your smoothie recipe sounds like it’s packed with the former x
Couldn’t agree more on the quote by Buddha, “Health, contentment and trust are your greatest possessions, and freedom your greatest joy!” Be contented and enjoy the simple things in life. Just like your recipe, simple yet helps to detoxify our body. Somehow it has a good feeling effect on our bodies.
I need to detox my whole life lately…ugh. This smoothie looks like a good way to do that, now if only I could clear my head.
Sometimes we need a little quiet time for us to unwind, relax and meditate . That smoothie looks so refreshing. I haven’t had a good smoothie in a while.
One of my all time favorites. Such a great and refreshing flavor and even my kids loved it. Makes you want to jump up off the couch and get moving. Very simple to make and even easier to consume!
I don’t know if it’s age or not but I can definitely relate. There are days where I am overflowing with inspiration and other days where I’m so lazy and unmotivated. At least my daily green smoothie does help with keeping me feeling healthy.
This is great because you hit the head on the nail. We need to take care of our bodies more. I have been drinking more water as of late because my body has been craving it. I love doing smoothies like this too for the same reason!
I’ve never tried a detox before, but maybe I need to. I can get really down on myself too when I’m not taking care of myself.
It’s always a good thing to take a break and “detox” from life. Get away from the electronics, work, home, and just relax. However, that’s sometimes easier said than done. Working to detox nutritionally is another wonderful thing. Your smoothie sounds great and looks beautifully green!
I get like that sometimes and I’m in my late 30’s. Damn time goes so bloody fast! – but I think whenever I feel really low, with a lack of energy and mental fatigue…I have to do something completely different – to get out of that FUNK…so your recent trip sounds like just the ticket. I just visit friends who are outside of London. works every time!
Green smoothies are tasty and give me a big energy boost! The recipe looks great! Some people add a bit of ginger or bell peppers for that extra zing!
I am sorry to hear that some days have left you feeling sluggish but I hope that the time off has left you feeling rejuvenated! I know that I am in major need of a detox because I am constantly eating food that I know is not good for me and will ultimately make me feel worse. I need to give myself a glowing green smoothie for sure ,x
Green smoothie is must for me as I really need detox for my skin to look more glowing. Your receipe is amazing but in my one I put bottle gourd + snake gourd + parsley leaves + coriander leaves with cucumber.
This green smoothie looks so easy rmto make. I have always stayed away from green smoothie as never heard about celeb’s color!
xx
Sampling things at whole foods used to be my absolute favorite! I miss that store so much. This sounds like a great refreshing smoothie.
Unplugging from regular is so important – you never know when you need it but it is essential to self-care. I need to visit some whole food places!
Not sure I would try it myself but I showed my wife and she really wants to give it a go!!
Maybe because I grew up in a household with a nutrition conscious mother, or because I was a picky eater, I’ve always been drawn to earth foods. We need to eat healthy to stay healthy and even with genetics and inherited diseases, our chances of survival are better with better nutrition. The smoothies look good. I’ll add some mint to it and be ready for the world.
I love all the healthy food . I like all the food with fresh healthy ingreadients . Your great and fresh smoothie ingredient be one of my fav favorite after reading your post . Banana , spinach , celery , apple and pear will be a great healthy mixture .
I love healthy recipes and this one is just perfect! I can start my day with this green smoothie!
I know people who love doing these green smoothies. For my part, I know what you mean by the kale being too bitter. I would need some sweet fruits, preferably with a lot of fiber in them to make it worth dealing with the bitter kale. You just remind me that I need to do some more unplugging of myself from time to time. Sometimes I get too caught up with everything else and just getting away from it all is important.
This really help me loose weight and cut cravings. Every time i crave fast food i make this smoothie and craving gone.