Wellness Favorites: My SIMPLE plant-based chili recipe & the sweat pants you need right now

At last. I’m FINALLY starting to get over my slump of the post-holiday blues. I went into this season knowing that it was going to be a bit different from our annual traditions…so, slightly skeptical but still filled with blissful anticipation.

This was the first year that we shared Thanksgiving with BOTH of our families. The first Christmas spent in California and the only one that I’ve not been with my family for- that was weird…and a little sad…but a grounding step in our relationship for building our own tradition. We switched things up and traveled to Florida for the New Years weekend to compensate and spent nearly an entire week with my family eating, drinking, playing games, wedding planning, watching movies by the fire and cuddling with my parent's new puppy Brenna (check out this cutie pie ;)…

A season of many firsts and so many memories made that I’ll cherish forever.

Hoping that this week’s highlights will inspire wellness for your new year and transform any winter woes into excitement for what’s to come.

Lot’s of love + healthy vibes!

KP

WEAR: Vuori Clothing. If you’re into the athleisure trend…which let’s be honest- who isn’t?...you must check out this brand. I’ve been swooning over their products everytime we stroll through the shops in Encinitas and have a chance to pop into their store. Paul surprised me with a pair of these joggers for Christmas (so glad I’m marrying this guy :p) and I’ve worn them every night since opening the package. Suuuuuper soft but still a bit of structure, medium weight, great fit…I could go on and on. Check them out- I dream of owning everything in their store.

PLAY: Pickleball. Has anyone else heard of this?? After almost a full year of listening to my parents mention this game everytime we catch up on the phone, I had to check it out for myself. I’ll admit, I had this preconceived idea that it was sure to be the new “shuffleboard”....just another game designated for the over 50 crowd. I totally ate my words. After about three hours of play time, I was hooked. It’s like a mix of tennis and ping pong, can be played on courts either outdoor or inside and just enough strategy/activity to keep you wanting to start another round after one ends. Awesome way to get some movement and friendly competition. 

LISTEN: That’s So Maven by The Healthy Maven Episode 42. This has quickly become one of my favorite podcasts to listen to each week since the beginning of 2017. Interesting guests, unique topics, GREAT conversations...If you haven’t already subscribed, you must check it out. This particular episode was such a powerful gem. The guest Christy Harrison from Food Psych (another podcast that I adore), dishes on diet culture, intuitive eating and making peace with your plate. Loads of thought-provoking inspiration to be gained and passed along.

DO: Synergy 180 Challenge. I'm teaming up with one of my favorite fitness places in Ocean Beach for a sweeeet 6-week challenge. This boutique studio is super cool- a combination of yoga and HIIT training in short bursts...my kinda workout. The 180 Challenge begins January 14th: 6 weeks of unlimited workout sessions, accountability, and nutrition assistance. Only a couple of spots left for $127...

EAT: Simple Tempeh Chili. I posted this meal a couple of weeks ago and promised to deliver the recipe…so here it is! This is SO easy to make and will last throughout the week- the best part is that you can freeze any leftovers and heat up for dinner in a pinch…which I totally did this past week. Also, like I encourage with most of my recipes- make it your own. Swap in your favorite ingredients, add additional spices, dress it up with different toppings. Say so long to another boring bowl of chili.

Ingredients:

• 2 packs organic tempeh (chopped or crumbled into small pieces)

• 1 small carton organic mushrooms (chopped)

• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)

• 2 (14-ounce) cans organic diced tomatoes

• (1) 15-ounce can organic tomato sauce

• 3 cloves garlic (minced)

• 1 jalapeno pepper- seeds removed (diced)

• 2 C low sodium vegetable broth

• 1.5 C chopped carrots

• 2 TBS paprika

• 3 TBS chili powder

• 2 tsp cumin

• ½ tsp sea salt

• ½ tsp ground pepper

• ½ tsp cayenne pepper

Directions:

1. Prepare all ingredients and add to crockpot.

2. Cover and cook on low 6-8 hours or high 3-4 hours.

3. Add additional vegetable broth or water for a less thick consistency, as well as any additional spices to taste.

4. Serve and enjoy....seriously it's that simple.