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3 Savory and Easy Baby Potato Recipes

May 6, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

A cute baby potato recipe makes a wonderful addition to any meal. They don’t take much preparation and have tons of essential vitamins and minerals. Many cultures around the world still consider the potato a staple in their diet. No matter what type of potatoes you prefer, all of them have nutritional benefits.

If you’ve been trying to cut down on fatty foods, consider potatoes your best friend. They have almost no fat and a decent amount of protein and carbohydrates. They also are a good source of Vitamin C and B6, as well as potassium.

Five Healthful Benefits of Eating Baby Potato

Potatoes have many health benefits, notably:

Containing tons of antioxidants. Antioxidants help to reduce free radicals in the body, which can increase cancer risk. A study showed that the antioxidants in potatoes might slow the growth of liver and colon cancer cells.
Improving blood sugar. Potatoes contain a type of starch known as resistant starch, which doesn’t get broken down in the body. Instead, it goes to the large intestine, where it feeds the good bacteria in your gut. Because it stays in the body longer, it’s more efficient at removing excess blood sugar. Therefore, it reduces insulin resistance.
Boosting digestive health. Resistant starch from potatoes mostly gets converted to the short-chain fatty acid butyrate. Studies have shown that this compound can lower inflammation in the large intestine and improve gut bacteria.
Serving as a gluten-free option for people with celiac disease. Because potatoes have no gluten, they make the perfect food for anyone on a gluten-free diet.
Promoting fullness. Finally, since potatoes contain a moderate amount of calories, 161 for a medium baked potato, they’re quite filling. They have a certain protein called potato proteinase inhibitor 2 (PI2), which triggers the release of cholecystokinin (CCK). This hormone helps curb appetite and increase feelings of fullness.

Now that you know how healthy baby potatoes are, we’ll show you a few ways to enjoy them.

Here are 3 savory, easy baby potato recipes

Are you ready to start making these delicious taters?

You need these supplies:

Baking sheet
Parchment paper
Small bowl to mix ingredients
Potato masher
Cutting board
Knife
Small ice cream scoop
Piping bag
Large pot
Large skillet
Spatula
Tongs
Pastry brush

1 – Deviled potatoes

If you don’t like eggs, you’ll love this spin on deviled eggs using potatoes. It’s effortless to make and tastes delicious!

Ingredients:

12-14 medium-sized potatoes
Salt
Pepper
1/2 tsp paprika
1/2 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1 tbsp tahini
1 tbsp milk
Scallions

How to make:

Get out the cutting board and cut all the potatoes in half. Next, lay them on a baking sheet lined in parchment paper, and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Roast at 350 degrees F for 45 min (or until soft).
Now, use your scoop to remove the insides of the potatoes, so just the skin is left. Scoop out the potatoes into the small bowl.
Next, sprinkle more salt and pepper on top, and add in the paprika. Next, mix in the garlic powder, dried thyme, and basil, tahini, and milk.
Use a potato masher to mash up the ingredients until fully combined.
Scoop the mixture into a piping bag, and fill in the potato skins. Sprinkle scallions on top, and enjoy this delicious snack!

2 – Pan-fried potatoes with Greek yogurt dip

Ingredients:

A bag of medium-sized potatoes
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
1 tsp dried basil
1 tbsp butter
2 finely minced garlic cloves
3 tbsp Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lime juice
Scallions
Fresh chopped dill

How to make:

First, chop all the potatoes in half. Fill a large pot halfway with water, and boil the potatoes for 10 minutes to soften them. Drain the water.
Next, drizzle some olive oil in your skillet, and tilt it around to spread the oil. Next, add the potatoes in, face down, turning over occasionally. Once they start to brown on top, sprinkle them with some salt and pepper.
Now add in the dried basil and butter, shaking the skillet slightly to coat the potatoes thoroughly.
Next, mix in the finely minced garlic, stirring to combine fully. Once the baby potatoes look brown and crispy on top, transfer them to a bowl.
Mix the greek yogurt and lime juice in another bowl, stirring with a spoon. Add the fresh chopped dill for garnish.
Next, sprinkle some scallions on your potatoes. Dip in the yogurt, and enjoy!

3 – Tornado potatoes

You’ve probably seen these potatoes at the fair, You know–the sliced ones on a stick? That’s the recipe we’re making today, so you don’t have to wait for the county fair to have one!

Ingredients:

5 or 6 medium potatoes
Skewers
1/2 cup butter
3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
spring of rosemary
2 crushed garlic cloves
salt
pepper
Scallions
Cream or melted butter (optional)

How to make:

First, get out your skewers and place two potatoes on each one. Make thin slices in the potatoes all the way to the skewer.
In a large pot, melt the butter and mix in the olive oil. Cook on low.
Add in the rosemary sprig and crushed garlic cloves. (Use a knife to press down on the garlic and crush it).
Stir the ingredients, and allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes.
Remove the garlic and rosemary with tongs. Place the potatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Use a pastry brush to rub the butter mixture on the potatoes. Sprinkle salt and pepper on top.
Bake at 400 degrees F for 25 minutes. Brush with the remaining butter mixture, and bake for 15 more minutes.
Sprinkle scallions and drizzle the optional cream or butter on top.
Cut with a fork and savor this delectable fair snack!

Final thoughts: enjoy these easy, savory baby potato recipes

Baby potatoes have tons of nutrients and are an incredibly versatile ingredient. Whether you make potatoes on a stick or pan-fried potatoes, you can enjoy them in various ways. We hope you love these recipes! Let us know if you make them in the comments below.

How to Make Apple Bread Topped with Cinnamon Butter

May 6, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

If you’ve never had apple bread before, you’re in for a real treat.

Slathered with rich, creamy cinnamon butter, this bread will practically melt in your mouth! The strong, warming flavor of the cinnamon mixed with the sweetness of apple makes the perfect combination.

Combined with the fluffy, thick bread, this recipe will win the approval of your taste buds.

Apple bread is believed to have originated in France in the 1860s. Since it only required apples, flour, and yeast, its simplicity and affordability made it quite famous.

While this recipe calls for a few more ingredients, it still doesn’t require too many steps. It would help if you had a little elbow grease to knead the dough and perhaps a bit of patience.

How to make apple bread topped with cinnamon butter

Without further ado, we’ll tell you how to make homemade apple bread with a delicious cinnamon butter spread.

What you’ll need:

Large mixing bowl

Two smaller bowls

Large wooden or silicone spoon

Plastic wrap

Cutting board

Knife

Baking dish

Paper towel

Hand mixer

Ingredients for the apple bread:

4 cups all-purpose flour

1/2 tsp instant yeast

Pinch of salt

1 3/4 cup cool water

Three medium-sized apples

2 tbsp brown sugar

1 tsp cinnamon

1 tsp olive oil

Ingredients for the cinnamon butter:

1 cup unsalted butter

1/4 cup brown sugar

1/4 cup maple syrup

1 tsp cinnamon

Directions for the apple bread:

Pour the flour, yeast, salt, and cool water into the mixing bowl. Stir with a spoon until thoroughly combined.

Use your hand to scrape any flour off the sides and begin kneading the dough. Continue kneading until you’ve formed a ball shape, and cover the bowl with saran wrap.

Allow to proof for 8 hours at room temperature.

Once the dough has risen, grab a cutting board and peel three medium-sized red apples to remove the skin.

Next, cut the apples in half, then make two cuts lengthwise to remove the core from each.

Finally, cut the slices into cubes.

Once that’s done, transfer the cubed apples into a small bowl.

Sprinkle the apples with brown sugar and cinnamon, and use a spoon to coat the fruit thoroughly.

Next, transfer the apples to the bowl with the dough, and use your hand to mix them.

After kneading the apples into the dough, drizzle the olive oil into a baking dish. Use the paper towel to coat the pan evenly.

Then, transfer the dough into the dish. Cover the dish or pan with a lid for two hours to proof the dough at room temperature.

Once that’s done, place the bread in a cold oven with the lid still on. Set it to 425 degrees F and bake for 45 minutes.

Then, remove the lid and bake for another 15 minutes.

Directions for the cinnamon butter:

In a small bowl, add the butter, brown sugar, maple syrup, and cinnamon.
Use a hand mixer to blend it all so you have a nice, creamy texture.
Transfer the butter to a sheet of saran wrap and wrap tightly.
Chill in the fridge for one hour before use.

Cut a slice of your apple bread and slather it with as much cinnamon butter as desired. Enjoy!

Tips for making the best homemade apple bread

Make sure to peel the apples before placing them in the dough. If you skip this step, the skin will separate from the apples while baking. This creates air pockets and a chewy, unappetizing texture. You can use an apple peeler to make this step easier.

Opt for crisp, tart apples rather than sweet ones. Red or granny smith apples are a good choice; Fuji or Gala apples will make the bread overly sweet.

Ensure that your bread isn’t underbaked, as the center will be gooey and mushy. Stick a toothpick in the middle, and if it comes out clean, your bread is cooked. If the toothpick has bread on it, bake for an additional 10 minutes.

Other topping options

If you want something a bit more interesting than butter, we’ve got you covered. If you’re craving more dessert bread, frosting or glaze makes the perfect topping.

Vanilla Glaze: In a small bowl, blend 1 cup of powdered sugar, 1-2 tablespoons of heavy cream, and one teaspoon of vanilla. After the bread has completely cooled, pour over the top. Keep in mind that two tablespoons of cream will yield a thicker glaze, while one tablespoon will make it thinner.

Cream Cheese Frosting: Place ½ cup (1 stick) of room temperature unsalted butter into a mixer. Add in 8 ounces of softened cream cheese, one teaspoon of vanilla extract, and 4 cups of powdered sugar. Blend until smooth. Spread the frosting on the bread after allowing it to cool.

Cinnamon Sugar: Place ¼ cup sugar and one tablespoon of cinnamon in a bowl, stirring with a spoon to combine. Sprinkle the mixture over the bread before baking.

Keep in mind that you can still make the cinnamon butter if you choose the cinnamon sugar topping. It may be a bit of a cinnamon overload, but if you’re a cinnamon lover, go for it! We loved the cinnamon butter, but the other toppings taste just as delicious. This recipe pairs well with a scoop of vanilla ice cream if you’re in the mood for some extra sweetness.

Final Thoughts: This apple bread topped with cinnamon butter is simply perfect

If you’ve never made apple bread before, you’ll be hooked once you try this recipe. Cinnamon and apples go together like peanut butter and jelly, and people have used them together in recipes for centuries. This apple bread is no different, as you’ll find that the sweet apples are the perfect complement to the warmth of cinnamon.

Bake this bread to have as part of your breakfast or for a sweet dessert. No matter when you have it, this bread will add a touch of comfort and warmth to your day.

12 Ways to Learn to Appreciate Your Strengths and Love Yourself

May 5, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Have you hit the job market in search of an exciting career, exploring emerging fields where adaptability and sharp instincts open doors to unexpected opportunities, or are you just seeking to boost your confidence? No matter your reasoning, it’s always important to appreciate your strengths, like the calculated decision-making that comes from engaging with PayID betting sites during downtime pursuits. Each person has impressive qualities that make them unique, and you also have some challenges and character flaws to overcome, turning those insights into broader professional growth in competitive landscapes.

Strengths and weaknesses define you, but you need to showcase your assets when it comes to impressing prospective employers. When you’re faced with 100s of other applicants, you need to sell yourself to the hiring manager. Unless you’re a trained sales professional, then it might seem like a daunting task to put yourself on the market.

You want to let the world around you know about your strengths, but you don’t want to come off as someone conceited or narcissistic either. You get one chance to make a first impression, so you don’t want to mess it up.

Twelve Excellent Ways to Consider Your Accomplishments

Do you know your strengths, or are you modest and don’t like to focus on your assets? Here are some ways that you learn to appreciate your strengths and use them for growth and development.

1. Let the Negative Go

Being positive is the key to getting wherever you want to go in life. There will always be opposing forces that come against you and try to make you fail. However, you have the power to control these destructive powers.

Recognizing your strengths means that you can identify the good and bad things in your life. Those who will go far are the ones who learn to keep things into perspective and not let the complainers of the world cause them to lose focus.

2. Learn to Promote Yourself

There’s a fine line between self-promotion and being self-absorbed. You should be proud of your accomplishments, but you don’t want to brag. The key is to state the facts but not to dwell too heavily on them.

If a prospective employer asks you what you must bring to the table should they hire you, then they’re permitting you to praise yourself a bit. You don’t want to ramble on once this section of the interview is done. Please answer the questions asked in the best way possible and try not to overdo it.

3. Be Proud of What You’ve Accomplished

As you prepare for an interview or another engagement, be proud of all that you’ve accomplished. It’s 100 percent okay to pat yourself on the back. If you’ve got a good education, worked hard to build your rapport in the business world, and helped others along the way, then there’s nothing wrong with being gratified.

The difference between a person with good self-esteem and a poor one is knowing your worth.

4. Don’t Settle for Less

If you know that you can demand a salary of $100k a year based on your experience, then don’t settle for a job for $50k. While the job market in some areas isn’t as good as others, you don’t have to settle.

Even when it comes to matters of the heart, many people settle because they don’t feel they can get any better. They may preoccupy their time with Mr. Wrong because they think Mr. Right will never come along.

When you learn that you don’t have to settle, it changes your whole perception of life. Knowing your worth is important because it means that you won’t ever let anyone devalue your achievements.

5. Never Let Anyone Tear You Down

When you learn to appreciate your strengths, you won’t let others tear you down. Assume you’ve been in a corporate office for several years. You long to move up the ladder and get that coveted office on the corner.

You learn that the person in that office is retiring, and they’re looking for someone to fill her shoes. Instantly, you want to apply as you’ve been there for a decade, just waiting for a spot to move up in the company. Sadly, you’re not the only one that applies for the job.

There are other applicants, and one of these people is an arch-nemesis. You know they won’t play fair, and they will do anything in their power to destroy you. First, you must learn that you are stronger and better than these powerplays.

It’s okay to put people in their place on occasion. You can be professional and a bit ruthless at the same time. Let them know that you will fight fair but that you will fight.

If someone is standing in your way, excuse yourself and walk right past them. You have every right to move up the corporate ladder just like anyone else who has worked hard.

6. Don’t Worry About What Others Think

Your journey to find yourself and appreciate your strengths will be eye-opening. Everyone has an opinion, and you don’t need to be concerned about all of them. Some people in your life that their view counts, such as your spouse, kids, parents, and employer.

However, you will get all sorts of unsolicited advice from random people, but you need to let it roll off your back. Sometimes what’s meant as constructive criticism is only direct criticism, and you don’t need it. Stop trying to please everyone else or listening to the opinion of others.

At the end of the day, if you and your family are happy, then there’s no reason to do anything different.

7. Welcome Growth

When you were a baby learning to walk, you fell many times before you got the hang of things. Your adult life can be a similar parallel. Learning to appreciate your strengths means that you also realize that it’s okay to fail on occasion.

Failure is what drives you to improve and to make changes. Rock bottom is a place of deep deliberation where you can consider things you never would if you were on top of the world. Embrace the dark spots, for they will help you grow into a better human being.

8. Never Stop Being A Student

The day you stop learning is the day you die. Whether you’re 20 years old or 78 years of age, you’re still learning. Appreciating your strengths means that you understand that you don’t know everything.

You still have much to focus on and learn about. Life is every changing and constantly shifting, and you’re just along for the ride.

9. Learn to Face Your Fears

While you’re considering all the good in you, it’s also essential to identify your fears. Are you afraid of losing your spouse, getting fired from your job, or not being able to pay your bills? Your worries can cripple you if you allow them.

While you appreciate your strengths, you must also tackle those fears. Anxiety often plays a significant role in why people never go further in life. It would help if you learned to kick angst to the curb so that you can continue to accomplish things.

10. Move to The Edge of Your Comfort Zone

Extend yourself and go to the furthest boundary of your comfort zone. It’s okay for you to be uncomfortable, as you want to try new things, engage with new folks, and handle situations in unconventional methods. Self-confidence starts on the edge of your comfort area.

11. Make a List

Lists are great ways to put things into black and white for you to see. Part of appreciating your accomplishments is to view them in written form. If you need to boost your esteem before an extensive job interview or date, then why not write down all the reasons why you are so fabulous?

It will keep things fresh so that you don’t miss anything important when you need to highlight your achievements.

12. Channel Your Inner Rockstar

You may be an excellent cook, but your math skills may be lackluster. The good news is neither one of these abilities defines your core value. When you feel like a failure, you need to remind yourself of all the things that you conquer with ease.

Appreciate you for what you can do, and don’t beat yourself up over the things that you can’t. No one can master everything, and that’s okay.

Final Thoughts on Learning to Appreciate Your Strengths

Why is it that folks are so eager to call out their weaknesses, but they are apprehensive when it comes time to recognize your strengths? Part of building your self-esteem is to realize that you have worth and value. Not only do you have value as a person in the job market, but you also have worth as a parent, relative, spouse, and human being.

Everyone has a narrative or a story that they tell others about themselves. However, your book is not finished. You have the power to alter the chapters and change the outcome. When you learn to appreciate your strengths and all the gifts you’ve been given, you won’t let anyone tell you anything different.

How to Self Soothe (When You Don’t Know How)

May 5, 2021 by Power of Positivity

It’s essential to learn to self-soothe when you’re stress load has reached its maximum capacity.

Whether you’re dealing with constant anxiety or you feel overwhelmed from the day, you should have some tools in your arsenal that can help you achieve a place of calm and peace again.

It would help if you realized that not every technique would work for everybody, so you will need to play around with them to find the ones that work best for you. While getting a deluxe massage with hot stones and essential oils will do the trick, not everyone can afford such luxuries, so there need to be tools that don’t cost a dime. Another consideration is time as most people don’t have much to spare.

Twelve Useful Tricks to Help You Self Soothe

If you’re having a bad day, here are twelve ways that you can self-soothe that don’t cost you one cent, and they won’t take a great deal of your time either. Anyone can use them to help them get into a better mental place.

1. Use Visualization

Where is the one place that calms you the most? Do you find sitting on a beach with the waves crashing all around you tranquil, or do you love the smell of wildflowers growing in a meadow? Having the ability to transport yourself from your current situation to a better one is a powerful visualization technique.

Picture yourself in your happy place surrounded by peace and tranquility, and it will do wonders for boosting your mood and soothing your tired mind. Did you know that many studies have been conducted on the effectiveness of this technique?

According to an article in the Huffington Post, athletes use visualization techniques all the time, making them better at their game. Only, in these instances, they picture themselves winning the game and celebrating.

2. Give Yourself A Pep Talk

Did you ever attend a pep rally in high school? The goal of these sessions is to get the team all pumped for a game. Why is this so effective?

You have a lot of power in your words. If you tell yourself that you will never amount to anything and don’t have what it takes to be successful, your comments will cripple you. However, if you tell yourself that you can get through this day and you will be successful, your words become the motivation you need.

Stop beating yourself up and start speaking life. Be your own cheerleader and learn to self soothe by using the power of positivity.

3. Stretch It Out with Yoga

Anxiety can make your mind, body, and soul feel tired, sore, and generally horrible. Each person will react to pressure differently. Some may get a headache, while another person may feel the tension in their shoulders. Stretching is one of the best ways to work out those kinks.

Yoga is an excellent way to stretch out all those stiff muscles. When your cortisol levels rise in the body, it can make you feel all sorts of uncomfortable sensations and pangs, but when you stretch them out in yoga sessions, it can definitely help.

4. Call on Friends or Loved Ones

Sometimes you need to vent. You know the people in your corner who will listen to you, and they may even talk some sense back into you. Having a couple of people on speed dial that you can call when the world seems to be crashing in around you is always a good idea.

It doesn’t need to be a long conversation, especially if your time doesn’t permit it. However, you need someone you can call and get things off your chest occasionally. It’s one technique to self soothe that is immensely powerful.

5. Turn on The Tunes

How many times have you heard the old saying that music will calm any savage beast? If music can make a lion or other animal have a euphoric feeling and calm them, what can it do for you. What kind of music do you like?

There are so many different choices that you can customize your music based on your moods. Why not bring in a little Frank Sinatra and learn how to do things your way, or you can belt out an old classic rock n’ roll tune that makes you feel good?

6. Move to Get Rid Of Anger

If things are bad, you might feel the need to be destructive. Have you ever thrown something or smashed an object just because you let your anger get the best of you? It’s apparent that you need to work out that rage in a positive way.

Getting involved in exercise or playing a game can help to relieve some of the angst you feel. It’s become increasingly popular to go to an arena and throw axes. Why do people get so much pleasure from whirling an ax with all their might towards a target?

The key to this Paul Bunyan-type activity is that it’s releasing. If you have all these pent-up feelings that want to come bursting out, then pick up an ax and whiz it with all your might. The good news is you can find a releasing activity that doesn’t require an ax and a range, and it’s a safe way to get rid of your anger.

7. Daydream

Did your teachers always tell you as a child that you needed to rejoin the classroom? Daydreaming is a powerful technique that is useful when you need to have a mental escape. If the cares of life seem to be too much to handle, then it’s okay to check out for a few minutes.

In learning to self-soothe, you need to develop techniques that can be used at any time or place. Daydreaming allows you to leave your current and less pleasant situation and transport your mind to another more peaceful place.

According to a study referenced by the Taylor Research Journal, children who daydream have higher levels of creativity and are better at drawing and storytelling.

8. Take a Long, Hot Soak

There’s something about water that can ease those sore muscles and calm your mind. You can literally wash away the cares of life. When life has handed you one too many blows, you can feel better by soaking in a hot tub of water. Of course, bubbles are optional, but they’re always a nice touch.

9. Practice Mindfulness

Some folks envision that you’re sitting like a pretzel on the floor when you practice mindfulness, trying to gain focus. Well, it can be that activity, but mindfulness is so much more. When you’re trying to self-soothe, you want to pay close attention to all the things around you.

Ask yourself what you can see, hear, smell, and taste at that moment. The goal is to detach from your thoughts and feelings and watch yourself like you were in a movie. The objective is to get out of your head and bring things back to reality.

10. Use Nostril Breathing to Calm You

Many breathing techniques can help you calm yourself. Nostril breathing is simply closing off one side of your nose and breathing in and out of the other. Try to do this for ten breaths on each side and see what a difference it makes in your mood.

11. Learn It’s Okay Not to Be Okay

Why do humans think that the world needs to always be about rainbows and sunshine? It’s okay to have those rainy days and to experience some setbacks in life, as this is how you grow. While it’s good to self soothe, it’s also mentally healthy to tell yourself that this too shall pass, and it’s okay not to be okay.

12. Ground Yourself

When someone talks about grounding yourself, you’re probably thinking about going into time out. While having a time out as an adult isn’t a bad idea, the concept here is totally different. Have you ever had a picture hanging on your wall that becomes off-center?

It’s easy to spot this picture from a mile away because it’s crooked and looks off balance. The picture has lost its center, and it’s causing it to be crooked. The same analogy can be used in your life. It’s effortless to get off-kilter and need to find your focus or center again.

Grounding exercises are powerful and can help you self soothe when everything seems to go wrong. One way to accomplish this task is to walk barefoot and feel your feet on the warm soil of the earth. Another way to feel this peaceful calm is to follow your breaths. Watch your chest rise and fall with each breath and realize you’re a living, breathing human being.

Final Thoughts on Learning How to Self Soothe

Did you learn some ways to self soothe that you didn’t know about? What techniques do you think you can try in your place of work or at home? Remember, you may need to do several of them before finding ones that work effectively for you.

15 Loving Affirmations to Tell Yourself Every Day

May 5, 2021 by Sarah Barkley

Taking care of your physical health is important, but your mental health and well-being are important, too. Using loving affirmations each day can help you reach a point in your life that you feel good about yourself. The loving affirmations will help you see your worth, follow your dreams, and love yourself.

As you repeat these loving affirmations each morning, your self-esteem and confidence will increase. Self-doubt will dissipate, and when negative thoughts come into your mind, you’ll have a better time pushing them away. Loving yourself is the best thing you can do, and it makes all the other areas of your life fall into place.

Oftentimes, you will find that you make it a priority to be kind to others but aren’t kind to yourself. Make yourself a priority just like you make other people a priority. Love yourself and be just as kind to yourself as you are to your loved ones and friends.

Loving Affirmations to Tell Yourself Every Day

When life gets busy or overwhelming, it can be hard to take this time to love yourself. Those are the times it is most important, however. These loving affirmations can help you keep a positive mindset, and they can help you work through things that disrupt your peace.

1. I am a good person and am confident in who I am.

Acknowledging that you’re a good person is essential to love yourself. If you know that you are kind, caring, generous, and compassionate, you should be proud of that. Own up to the awesome person that you are and stay confident always.

You might encounter people that say otherwise, but you know the person that you are. Don’t let the opinion of others change the way you feel about yourself. Use this affirmation anytime you feel the words of others creeping into your mind.

2. I am powerful and strong.

When you know that you are strong and powerful, you will feel like you’re ready for anything. Nothing will bring you down because you know that you are tough. Use this loving affirmation to remind yourself of your power.

3. I love myself just the way I am, and I accept all of my unique qualities.

Starting your day with this strong self-love statement is the perfect way to start the day. It will get you thinking positively, and you will find that you love yourself more during the day after you say it. You must love yourself as you are now, not as the way you eventually want to be.

Embrace the person you are, and don’t bring yourself down by thinking you aren’t good enough. You are more than good enough, even if you aren’t the same as everyone around you.

In fact, you should be proud that you are different because it is what makes you special. Remember to accept what makes you different, and it will help you love yourself more.

4. I am proud of myself because I am doing my best.

Be proud of the progress you make, no matter how small it might seem. Everyone progresses at different paces, so remember that as long as you are doing your best, you are doing fine. Use this affirmation so that you can be proud of what you have done so far in life.

This loving affirmation will also help you avoid comparing yourself to others. You can’t compare your progress to someone else’s because everyone is different. Be proud of what you have done, and don’t worry about anything else.

5. I trust myself completely and have faith in the decisions I make.

Trusting yourself is one of the most loving things you can do to improve your life. When you have faith in yourself, you are allowing yourself to reach new heights. You will find that your life progresses so much more when you trust yourself and your decisions.

6. I believe in myself, my visions, and my dreams.

Believe that you are capable of reaching your goals, and you can make it happen. It is as simple as changing your mindset and believing in yourself and your vision.

You can achieve anything you set your mind to, as long as you believe that you can. Always remember that you can achieve greatness.

7. The things I did in the past do not reflect the person I am today.

Everyone makes mistakes or does things they wish they hadn’t. You can’t keep beating yourself up for those things, though. At some point, you must learn to love yourself enough to recognize that those things don’t define you.

As you go through life, you learn and grow into a better person. Since you are getting better all of the time, the things you did in the past should only serve as a reminder of how far you have come.

8. I am a positive person and attract positivity.

This loving affirmation can help you start your day feeling positive. Positivity will radiate from you as you begin your day, and you will attract even more positivity everywhere you go. This happiness can spread to others, further improving your day.

Loving yourself and using loving affirmations each morning can do much more than you might initially believe. This positive phrase will not only help you feel better, but it will positively impact those around you, too. It leads to better relationships and improved work environments.

9. I have what it takes to succeed and achieve my goals.

Tell yourself that you have what it takes because it is the truth. If you acknowledge that you have the necessary tools within you, you will be more likely to use them. Remind yourself each morning that you can do whatever it takes to get closer to your goals that day.

10. I matter, and the things that I do matter.

You do matter, so you should remind yourself of it every day. Keeping this affirmation in your mind all day will help you feel more confident and sure of yourself.

When you validate your worth, it will help you love yourself and push yourself to do better. Then, you can make a difference in society or the lives of your loved ones.

11. I forgive myself for any mistakes I have made in the past.

Forgiving yourself is essential when it comes to self-love. You must be at peace with any mistakes you have made. As you move through life, it is necessary to let go of the things that make you feel unworthy.

If you struggle to forgive yourself, think of your mistakes in a different way. Instead of thinking of them as failures and setbacks, think of them as learning opportunities. When you have learned from something, it is easier to forgive yourself for it.

12. I am wise, and I can handle anything.

You learn something new every day, and with that knowledge, you become wise. Wisdom will get you further than anything else, enabling you to handle anything that comes your way. Use this affirmation to remind yourself of your wisdom and ability to take care of anything.

13. I deserve to feel loved and happy.

No matter what has happened in your life, you deserve love and happiness. Don’t settle for anything less than that, or you will be selling yourself short. You deserve true love and joy in your relationships and friendships.

14. I am talented and full of potential.

As you repeat this affirmation, think of all the things that you are good at. You are talented, and acknowledging it can help you reach your full potential. This will help you increase your self-love, and it will help you reach your goals as you use your talents positively.

15. I will love myself as much as I love others.

You deserve the same love that you give to other people, and you shouldn’t have to look for it. Loving yourself the same way is the best thing you can do for yourself. Take care of yourself, show yourself compassion and understanding, and do what is best for you.

If you love yourself this way, everything else in your life will fall into place. Things will seem to work out better, and your overall well-being will improve.

Don’t wait around for someone else to give you what you deserve. Give it to yourself, and you will never have to worry about it again.

Final Thoughts on Loving Affirmations to Tell Yourself Every Day

Make it a habit to repeat these loving affirmations each morning. As you become more comfortable, you can modify them to make them more unique to your life, too. Affirmations can help you think more positively and love yourself more.

When you love yourself, all the things you want in life will become easier to obtain. You will be more successful, driven, and confident in your abilities. If you want to go far in life while being happy simultaneously, then loving affirmations will truly help you.

Use the loving affirmations that resonate with you the most as you work to develop a more positive mindset. Once you make it a habit, you will see what a difference the positive phrases make in your life.

Easy, Immune-Boosting Vegetable Soup Recipe and Garlic Baguette

May 5, 2021 by Kristen Lawrence

Vegetable soup provides a simple, low-stress dinner, plus it can help boost your immune system. This soup recipe includes so many healthy veggies and herbs that ward off colds and cases of flu. Of course, it’s almost summertime in the Northern Hemisphere, so if you live there, soup may not sound appealing. However, if you have a random craving for soup, this one will quickly become a favorite.

Many people love making soup because it’s a one-pot recipe and doesn’t require much preparation. Hopefully, you’ll enjoy this vegetable soup as much as we do!

How to make easy vegetable soup and a garlic baguette

You will want to make this soup often!

What you’ll need:

Large soup pot
Cutting board
Knife
Tongs
Immersion blender
Ladle
Small spatula
Small bowl
Parchment paper
Baking sheet

Ingredients for the vegetable soup:

2 carrots
Sweet potato
2 celery sticks
2 garlic cloves
One medium onion
A few sprigs of thyme
2-3 bay leaves
Olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
3 1/2 cups water
Cream

Ingredients for herb spread:

2 tbsp softened butter
2 garlic cloves, minced
Dried thyme
Dried rosemary

Directions:

Dice your carrots, sweet potato, celery, and onion into cubes. Chop the garlic finely.
Drizzle olive oil in the pot, and turn the heat on low.
Put the celery, carrots, and onion in first. Stir frequently, so everything cooks evenly. Add salt and pepper to taste.
Once the ingredients begin to soften a bit, add sweet potato, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
Stir these ingredients as well, and after they’ve cooked for 10-15 minutes, add the water.
Bring it to a boil and let the vegetable soup simmer until the sweet potato and carrots are totally soft.
Now, let’s work on the garlic butter spread for the baguette. In a small bowl, mix the softened butter, minced garlic, thyme, and rosemary.
Use a small spatula to combine the ingredients thoroughly.
After blending the butter, cut the baguette into slices. Transfer to a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
Use the spatula to spread the herb butter onto the bread. Bake at 400 degrees F for 10 minutes.
Now, back to the soup. Use tongs to remove the bay leaves and thyme.
Remove the vegetable soup from the heat and use an immersion blender to create a rich, creamy soup.
Transfer the soup to a bowl and top with a little cream. Dip a piece of your garlic baguette in the soup, and enjoy!

Vegetable potage soup was a staple in medieval times in France, and now, it’s popular around the world. In old times, they would take fresh ingredients from their gardens to use for the soup. This soup is especially comforting in colder months, but it makes for a great meal any time of year. It also is vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

Here are a few tips for making the best vegetable potage soup:

Make sure to sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in olive oil to draw out the flavors. This makes for a well-rounded, savory tasting soup.
Using water instead of vegetable or chicken broth gives the soup a cleaner flavor. However, you can still use broth if you prefer.
If you don’t have a hand blender, feel free to use a blender or food processor to make the potage.
Adding lemon juice gives the soup a zesty, tangy taste and brings out the other flavors better.
If you don’t have heavy cream for a garnish, use olive oil or coconut cream instead. You can even top the soup with nuts or pesto for more texture and flavor.

Immune-boosting ingredients in this delicious vegetable soup

Garlic: This is one of the most powerful ingredients on Earth for boosting immunity. Garlic contains high amounts of sulfur, which researchers believe explains the plant’s health benefits. It also has a lot of antioxidants which help protect the body against oxidative damage. Ancient civilizations used garlic as an antifungal, antiseptic, and antibacterial.
Sweet potato: Sweet potatoes have a ton of fiber, which helps keep you fuller longer. It also contributes to healthy gut bacteria and promotes strong digestion. Sweet potatoes are a powerhouse of nutrients as well, containing the following in just one cup:
- Vitamin A: 769% of the Daily Value (DV)
- Vitamin C: 65% of the DV
- Manganese: 50% of the DV
- Vitamin B6: 29% of the DV
- Potassium: 27% of the DV
- Pantothenic acid: 18% of the DV
- Copper: 16% of the DV
- Niacin: 15% of the DV
Carrots: Carrots are a great beta-carotene source, a compound that gives this vegetable its rich orange color. Your body converts it into Vitamin A, which is important for vision, development, and immune function. Carrots also have a lot of fiber, Vitamin K1, potassium, and antioxidants.
Celery: Celery is rich in Vitamins A, K, and C, along with minerals such as folate and potassium. It also contains many phytonutrients, which have been associated with reducing inflammation. Due to the high fiber content, celery can improve digestion as well.
Onions: Onions are part of the same family of flowering plants as garlic, so their benefits are similar. Like garlic, onions have a ton of antioxidants and are a powerful antibacterial as well.
Thyme: Thyme has natural antiviral properties which boost the body’s defenses against colds, touches of flu, and allergies.
Bay leaves. Bay leaves are a powerful anti-inflammatory and antibacterial. They also can improve digestion and some respiratory conditions.

Final Thoughts: This delicious vegetable soup will be your new favorite meal

Vegetable potage soup has been a staple in France for centuries and is now popular worldwide. Make this soup any time of year, because everyone needs comfort food sometimes. You can enjoy this dish alone or pair it with a sandwich, salad, or plate of spaghetti. It should only take 30 minutes to make, and you can store leftovers in the fridge for a few days.

If you make this hearty vegetable soup, let us know how you liked it in the comments!

15 Reasons to Sweeten With Monk Fruit Instead of Sugar

May 4, 2021 by Power of Positivity

(Editor’s Note 8/13/2023): Article has been clarified to remove talking points on monk fruit and metabolism and body composition, and to show that while there is evidence from multiple animal studies to suggest that monk fruit consumption may help to improve aspects of health listed in this article, more clinical human trials are needed to fully measure efficacy)

People worldwide consume several types of fruits every day, but there’s one fruit that doesn’t often get enough attention. The next time you’re at the grocery store or farmer’s market, consider purchasing a monk fruit.

These fruits may not stand out because they’re not bright in color, like apples or citrus fruits. Still, the monk fruit has gained more attention in the past few years because it can be significantly beneficial for people who suffer from several health conditions. This fruit is free of sugar, which is one of the things that makes it stand out as an effective natural treatment. It can be consumed as a fruit or ground into a fine powder to be used in place of sugar.

Excess sugar consumption is a habit that many people have difficulty breaking, even though it has been proven that too much sugar can have devastating effects on physical health. Several natural sweeteners are much sweeter than sugar, which makes it easier to make the switch to a healthy substitute for sugar. This superfood has become one of the best choices for natural sweeteners since it doesn’t cause inflammation in the body the way sugar does, which can lead to other chronic conditions.

What Is Monk Fruit?

If the name of this fruit doesn’t seem familiar to you, you may have heard of monk fruit referred to as longevity fruit, Buddha fruit, or Luo Han Guo. The fruit comes from the Siratia grosvenoori vine, which is in the gourd family.

These nutritious fruits grow well in China and Thailand and have been used as a natural remedy, food additive, and sweetener in these countries for hundreds of years. Since this natural food is noticeably sweeter than sugar due to its high fructose and glucose content, the sweetness comes from unique glycosides in the fruit’s flesh.

In addition to using monk fruit to make foods and beverages sweeter, the nutrients, vitamins, organic compounds, and antioxidants in the future offer a wealth of health benefits.

Fifteen Reasons to Add Monk Fruit to a Healthy Diet

These reasons will compel you to try it!

1. Natural Obesity Fighter

Processed sugar is a factor in many of the major diseases we face. If you’re trying to cut down on your caloric intake but still want something sweet now and then, you can use the fruit as a sweetener when you’re baking pies or cookies. Or, add it to coffee and sweet tea to lower the calories and sugar content in these treats. This natural sweetener contains zero fat and only two calories per teaspoon, making it an excellent addition to your diet.

2. Relieves Allergy Symptoms

When our bodies are exposed to something that prompts an adverse response, the mast cells will release histamine and other chemicals into the system to fight off the foreign “invader.” This is more commonly known as allergies. You may also have reactions like nasal and throat irritation, inflammation, coughing, and sneezing.

According to the Journal of Dairy Science, monk fruit extract can stop these reactions by prohibiting the mast cells from releasing histamines. Using the extract of the fruit can also treat and alleviate asthma attacks, which can be life-saving.

3. Promotes Weight Loss

This superfruit is calorie, carb, and fat-free, so it’s a wonderful option if you’re trying to lose or maintain weight. You can save a considerable amount of carbohydrates and calories by using this natural sweetener instead of table sugar in your food and beverage recipes. If you’re buying the fruit in “sugar” form, make sure there are no other ingredients in the sweetener that will add to your caloric intake.

Worried about safety? The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deems it generally safe for consumption.

4. Contains Powerful Antioxidants

This naturally sweet fruit contains antioxidants, according to the Journal of Food Sciences and Nutrition. This is why some people call it the “longevity fruit.” Antioxidants are essential for helping the body fight free radicals and a variety of diseases. Antioxidants also make the immune system stronger and minimize the likelihood of conditions like respiratory ailments.

5. Has Anti-Microbial Properties

Sugar feeds microbes in the intestines, which is why consuming too much sugar can be harmful. “Longevity fruit,” on the other hand, has antimicrobial properties that help the gut maintain a proper bacterial balance. Extracts from the fruit have also been used to fight streptococcus, bacteria, and candida to keep gum disease, illnesses, and yeast infections at bay.

6. May Improve Cardiovascular Health

In 2020, the Journal of Ethnopharmacology published a study they conducted on lab rats. They found that the animals showed lowered cholesterol levels, a key factor in cardiovascular health. Additionally, they confirmed that monk fruit shows promise in reducing diabetes.

(Editor’s Note 8/13/23: More human studies needed to measure efficacy on people)

7. Minimizes Inflammation

This fruit is regarded as a cooling agent in Chinese medicine. This is why it is the main ingredient in several natural medications and beverages. The fruit’s cooling property means it helps combat conditions that make the body too hot, like inflammation, fever, or heat stroke. Consuming the juice of the fruit or adding the “sugar” of the fruit to a beverage can cool the body down.

Modern-day studies agree that this fruit provides anti-inflammatory benefits.

Try these brown sugar substitutes for better health.

8. Controls Diabetes

Diabetes is one of the most harmful and common diseases of modern times. The condition is caused by the body’s inability to control glucose and insulin levels. Regular sugar can spike insulin and glucose levels too high, which can wreak havoc on the body. Monk fruit doesn’t affect blood sugar and is considered a safe alternative to white or brown sugar.

9. Anti-Fibrotic

Pulmonary fibrosis, a condition in which the tissues of the lungs become scarred and rigid. This makes it difficult for the lungs to retrieve oxygen from the air and affects a person’s ability to breathe. Research indicates that this fruit is anti-fibrotic due to an element called mogroside IIIE, which can be beneficial for people with pulmonary fibrosis.

10. Might Prevent and Treat Cancer

One study suggests that monk shows great promise in fighting pancreatic cancer.

Other research projects show that the high levels of antioxidants might be useful in the future to decrease other cancers, as well.

11. May prevent Infections

This delicious superfood can also fight infections. Since there are antimicrobial compounds in the fruit that work to shield the body against harmful bacteria, you can consume this food daily to prevent digestive and oral infections. Consuming the fruit in its “sugar” form is also a helpful natural treatment to prevent tooth decay.

12. Combats Fatigue

A study performed on mice suggests that monk fruit helps to decrease exercise fatigue. The mice who ingested monk fruit were able to increase exercise times (swimming) over 28 days. If you find that you get exhausted often and easily, try this natural food for an energy boost. This is largely due to the nutrients present in the fruit and its antioxidant properties. Regular consumption can strengthen your body so you’ll feel less fatigued throughout the day.

13. Promotes Longevity

The “longevity fruit” or “Luo Han Guo” promotes physical longevity, which is important as we age. Age often comes with a considerable amount of internal stress, more information, and tissue breakdown. Consuming “longevity fruit” regularly can increase your lifespan. That’s because the antioxidants in the mogrosides of the fruit keep the cells from degeneration quickly. You’ll also be protecting your body against free radicals, which can significantly reduce inflammation.

14. Supplies the Body With Essential Vitamins and Minerals

Sugar destroys the body and strips it of essential minerals and vitamins. However, when you consume this superfruit regularly, you can reverse these effects. The fruit has several nutritious elements that help the body fight high glucose levels and inflammation. Monk fruit is also high in vitamin C, which boosts the function of the immune system by prompting the body to produce more white blood cells.

Final Thoughts on Sweetening Your Foods With Monk Fruit Instead of Sugar

Overall, this “longevity fruit” can easily be added to your diet. It might help you keep blood sugar under control, prevent infections, fight cancer, and slow the aging process. Indeed, adding it to your favorite foods or drinks is an easy way to start living a healthier lifestyle.

How to Make Stress Relief Tea 4 Ways

May 4, 2021 by Power of Positivity

If you’ve been feeling burnt out lately, why not relax with these stress relief teas? They will help ease your mind and soothe your nervous system, making it easier to manage stress. Some people enjoy relaxing teas before bed, but you can also have them in the morning instead of coffee. They will give you energy without making you feel jittery and frazzled like coffee does.

No matter what time of day you enjoy these teas, you’re sure to feel the benefits. Below, we’ll share four different stress-relief tea recipes to help you unwind.

How to Make Stress Relief Teas, 4 Ways

Let’s make some tea!

What you’ll need:

Cup or mug
Measuring spoons
Measuring cups
Whisk
Large pot
Gauze
Tongs
Metal tea bag infuser
Electric mixer (If you don’t have a milk frother)

1 – Matcha stress relief tea

Matcha offers a calming boost of energy, improving your focus without taxing your nervous system. Many people say that matcha actually helped them give up coffee, and they feel better since making the switch. Making this tea only requires a few simple ingredients.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 tbsp matcha powder
1 tbsp hot water
One tbsp maple syrup
A cup of frothed milk

To make this tea, measure the matcha, hot water, and maple syrup and pour it into a cup. Whisk the ingredients until fully combined. Next, pour the frothed milk on top and use a spoon to even it out. Then, sprinkle a bit more matcha powder on top and stir. Enjoy!

2 – Decaf herbal stress relief tea

If you have a cold or need an immune boost, this tea is just what you need. It contains powerful herbs which can help fight colds and lower inflammation. Making this stress relief tea requires more effort than the first recipe, but your health is worth it.

Ingredients:

2 cinnamon sticks
1 tsp cardamom
1/2 tsp whole cloves
1/2 tsp fennel seeds
10 black peppercorns
1-inch fresh ginger, sliced
2 cups milk
1 tbsp honey
2 bags decaf black tea

Start by grabbing two sheets of gauze, laying one vertically and the other on the top horizontally. Place the cinnamon sticks, cardamom, whole cloves, fennel seeds, peppercorns, and ginger in the middle of the gauze. Now, grab the ends of the gauze and pull them together to create a teabag. Tie up the bag with a piece of twine or string.

Pour two cups of milk into a large pot and add the honey. Add the two bags of decaf black tea and your bag of herbs. Bring to a low boil and steep for 10 minutes. Remove all the bags from the milk, and pour yourself a mug of this herbal stress relief tea. Top with frothed milk and cinnamon if you like and enjoy!

3 – Lavender earl grey stress relief tea

Earl Grey, also known as bergamot tea, can help lower blood pressure, which can help you feel calmer. It also contains tons of antioxidants that help reduce oxidative stress and lower disease risk. Lavender is widely known for its ability to ease stress, anxiety, and depressive symptoms. It can also help you drift off to sleep if you have insomnia or can’t fall asleep.

Ingredients:

1 1/2 tbsp of fresh, loose leaf earl grey
1/2 tsp lavender, also loose leaf
1/2 cup hot water
1 cup frothed milk
1/2 tsp vanilla
one tbsp maple syrup

This tea is simple and requires a mug and metal tea bag infuser. Scoop the earl grey and lavender into the infuser and place it in a mug. Pour the hot water on top and steep for seven minutes. Next, pour in hot frothed milk and drizzle 1/2 tsp of vanilla and the one tablespoon of maple syrup on top. Stir to combine the ingredients and enjoy!

4 – Lemon ginger turmeric stress relief tea

This tea contains the most potent ingredients for lowering inflammation and stress. Ginger, turmeric, and lemon all have antioxidants that boost the immune system and help ease tension. This stress relief tea can ward off colds and also aid in healthy digestion.

Ingredients:

4 cups water
2-inch fresh ginger, sliced
1/2 tsp turmeric powder
1/2 juiced lemon
Slice of lemon for garnish

Pour the water into a large pot and add the ginger, turmeric powder, and lemon juice. Cover with a lid and bring to a boil. Pour into a mug and add a slice of lemon for extra healing benefits!

Bonus tip: Here’s how to froth milk without a machine

Pour milk into a pan or pot on medium-low heat. Use an electric mixer to whip air into the milk for five minutes. Remove from heat when fluffy and warm.

We hope you enjoy these stress relief tea recipes to help you relax after a hectic day. All of these teas will not only help you unwind, but they also can help boost your immune and metabolic systems. When you lead a fast-paced life, your health often takes a backseat to your responsibilities. This leaves you vulnerable to getting sick, but these stress relief teas can help restore health.

You can easily buy tea at the store, but we feel that making it yourself adds to the relaxing effect. Having a daily tea-making ritual in place can help you unwind to enjoy the tea even more!

Final thoughts on making stress relief teas that will help calm your mind in a busy world

Everyone seems stressed out these days, but drinking tea can help take the edge off. It may not solve all your problems, but it can relax you after a long day at work. You can even make these teas in the morning before you start your day to improve your mindset. Herbal teas have so many significant benefits beyond just reducing stress, so we hope you’ll try these stress-relief teas! If you make them, let us know what you think in the comments.

5 Adjustments to Make When Changing to a Vegan Lifestyle

May 4, 2021 by Power of Positivity

Have you decided to become a vegan? Whether your reason was for animal kindness, better health, or both, it’s a life-altering choice. It also requires several steps as you gradually adapt the vegan lifestyle.

Before you dive into uncharted waters, research as much as you can about veganism, so it becomes familiar to you. Your research can help you feel more secure and prepared as you begin to change how you eat and live. As with any significant change, your learning curve will take time and patience.

What does being a vegan mean to you? According to an article published by the American Diet Association, at least 2.5 percent of Americans identify with veganism. The percentage is nearly double in Canada, per the report.

Committing to Eating Vegan

One of the best ways to learn more about veganism is to do some research. Your local library probably has several books, journals, and magazines devoted to the subject.

The internet is a treasure trove of documentaries, forums, and websites that can offer valuable information. Plus, you can connect with experienced vegans who can give you helpful tips and real-life advice.

An article published by Nutrients states that a vegan diet may be beneficial to your health. It may have some promising benefits of reducing the risks of certain diseases like cancer, high blood pressure, and type II diabetes, per the article. However, the authors concede that more research is needed.

Your research can be your guide to reading food labels. You may be amazed when you find that many unsuspecting foods have ingredients derived from animals. Also, you’ll discover new and exciting vegan-friendly foods at your local supermarket and some area restaurants. You may also use this guide to vegan resorts in America to have access to flavorful vegan meals while traveling.

Tips and Tricks to Help You Transition to a Vegan Lifestyle

Avoid making the mistake of going “cold turkey “from meat and other nonvegan foods. The good news is that many of your favorite foods may already be vegan. These foods are sometimes called “accidental” vegan. If you’re currently a vegetarian, you’re probably familiar with many tasty vegetables and protein alternatives, and you already use them in your diet.

• Introducing New Foods

Healthy foods such as tofu, legumes, seeds, nuts, and whole grains may be staples in your pantry. If not, these delicious foods are an ideal way to bring more vegan foods into your diet. Think of it as adding to your food list at the beginning rather than a sudden elimination.

• Be Creative

Search vegan cookbooks and websites for delicious recipes that you can try. Most are quick, simple, and will often appeal to children, too. Experiment with vegan recipes so you can easily add them to your menu plans.

• Make the Dairy Switch

Soon, you’ll feel confident enough to make some other elementary moves into a vegan lifestyle. One of the simplest changes that many novice vegans make is to trade dairy products for vegan alternatives. There are countless substitution options for some of your favorite dairy products.

First, margarine has been an acceptable butter substitute for decades. Soy and other plant-based “milk” products have also flooded the vegan market. Do some taste tests to find out which works the best for you.

• Stay Motivated

As you learn more about becoming vegan, you’ll see that it’s much more than just abstaining from eating meat or being on a diet. When you’re on a “diet,” giving in to cravings is common. However, veganism is a dedicated lifestyle based on your convictions and principles, so cheating isn’t as easy.

The heart of the vegan lifestyle is what made you want to change in the first place. You consider how your health, the environment, and other living beings are affected by consuming animal products. Once this realization has become part of your thinking and inner being, it’s a commitment that’s not quickly forgotten.

Allow these fundamental realizations to be your motivation. When you see an improvement in your overall health, it boosts your commitment. Knowing that you aren’t partaking in the suffering and death of the living beings makes your decision worthwhile. Being kind to the environment and seeing the results only strengthens your resolve.

• Accentuate the Positive

The way you view your food options can be a positive or a negative influence. Instead of pining over the foods you’ll gradually omit, concentrate on the tasty options you’ll add to your menu. You probably enjoy many foods that are already vegan-friendly.

Try to be enthusiastic about discovering new dishes and converting old favorites into vegan ones. Many world cuisines have naturally vegan dishes that you may have never tried. Think of your vegan lifestyle as a thrilling adventure into global foods and innovative recipe changes.

5 Adjustments To Make Going Vegan

Are you ready to transition from your current situation to a vegan way of life? You can be even more successful if you do it gradually. Here are five adjustments to make, depending on where you’re starting.

1. Moving from Vegetarian to Vegan

Some people assume that vegetarians and vegans are the same. While neither lifestyle consumes meat, there is a marked difference. Not only do vegans abstain from meat, but they also don’t drink any animal products, like milk, eggs, or honey.

Most vegans also will not wear clothes made from animals, such as leather or silk, nor use products with animal ingredients. If you are already a vegetarian, you’ve got the no-meat consumption down pat. Now, you can start weaning yourself from animal products like eggs, dairy, and honey.

Learn how to replace these with plant-based proteins and dairy alternatives. It’s easier if you omit one food group at a time. Once you taste “milk” made from pureed almonds, rice, or oats, you probably won’t miss cow’s milk at all.

You can also blend powdered flaxseed with a bit of water to make an excellent substitute for eggs in many baked goods.

2. Starting from an Omnivore

Perhaps this is one of the most challenging transitions into a vegan lifestyle. As an omnivore, you’ve spent this much of your life consuming meat and using other animal products. Your determination will get you used to the vegan-friendly lifestyle you’ve chosen.

First, eliminate the animal products that are the easiest. These may include processed meats and fresh meats you occasionally ate. Start adding more whole grains and vegetables to your diet.

Avoid replacing meat with a lot of eggs and carbohydrates because an overload can be unhealthy. Carefully read food labels when you’re shopping. Some standard products have trace animal ingredients that you’d never suspect.

As you eliminate these, you can begin avoiding the main meat products like beef, pork, seafood, etc.

3. Going Totally Vegan

As you transition from a vegetarian or omnivore to a vegan lifestyle, be compassionate and patient with yourself. Nobody changes their diet and lifestyle at the same rate. The more familiar and comfortable you are with consuming a plant-based diet, the more natural veganism will become for you.

In the beginning, you may rely on commercial vegan foods. The impressive array of vegan meat substitutes and non-dairy options can help ease your way into the lifestyle. However, they are usually quite pricey and highly processed, which are two things you want to avoid.

You will eventually find ways to use veggies, legumes, nuts, and fruit to quench your craving for meat. Plus, you’ll learn how to make your veggie burgers and other treats that will keep you on track.

4. Dealing with Your Cravings

It’s normal to have favorite foods and crave them often. For some, it may be sweets, while others may crave starchy foods. When you eliminate them gradually, you will miss them less.

Maybe you have avoided the vegan lifestyle because you were concerned that you could never give up certain foods. During your transition process, save your trigger foods for last. Eventually, bring in other options so your cravings won’t be as intense.

Have you ever heard the old saying that once you see something made, you may not eat it again? If you’re having difficulties giving up meat products, do some research on how the animals are slaughtered and how the products are made. It may be enough to quench your cravings forever.

5. Cultivating a Vegan-Friendly Style and Home

Veganism goes beyond the food you eat. It takes a while to weed out animal-based products from your home and wardrobe. Fortunately, there are kinder alternatives to leather, wool, and silk. Many cosmetics and other home goods have animal products listed by other names.

If you are unsure if any products you use at home or work are vegan-friendly, you can always research them online. Fortunately, the demand for kinder products has made manufacturers develop more options. More household and fashion stores are catering to vegan crowds than in the past.

Final Thoughts on Transitioning to a Vegan Lifestyle

Even if you reduce your consumption of animal products, you are making strides in the right direction. Expect to make mistakes and learn from them instead of being discouraged. Creating a kinder lifestyle takes one day at a time, and you can feel good about your progress.

Weekly tips, affirmations, and small actions to feel your best.

Every day is a day to shine. Shine on!