Featured, Lifestyle, Travel, Travel Guides

My Favorite Healthy Spots in Maui

January 30, 2017
My Favorite Healthy Spots in Maui

After a few months of travel and managing the chaos of three weddings (all of which were mine), I’m so happy to be home! Today, I want to share some of my favorite healthy spots that I found on my trip to Maui!

Mana Foods 

I stumbled upon this local health food store while passing through Paia. I was instantly charmed by the old wood floors, quirky vibe and friendly locals. They have a well-stocked produce section with locally gown goods like mangosteen and jackfruit. There’s also a deli that serves a variety of hot food, sandwiches, soups and salads.

Down to Earth in Kahului

Just a few minutes from the Kahului airport you’ll find Down to Earth; a one-stop-shop for all things fresh, local and healthy. This well-stocked health food market is equipped with a deli offering salads, hot food, sandwiches, fresh juices and smoothies.

Whole Foods Market in Kahului

This was the last stop on our trip and where we spent Thanksgiving due to a delayed flight. While Whole Foods is a chain grocery shop, the Maui location definitely has that local, laid-back feel. This too, is close to the Kahului airport and would be a great place to stock up once you land if you have food allergies or dietary restrictions. 

The Westin Resort and Spa in Lahaina

We stayed at The Westin and hosted our wedding on the property as well. This was not my first stay at the resort and certainly will not be my last. I’m always impressed by The Westin’s dedication to creating an environment that supports a healthy lifestyle.

I loved:

+ WestinWorkout™ – the gym on this property is open 24/7, has a stunning view and is well stocked with cardio equipment, weights, resistance bands and yoga mats. You can also enjoy daily group classes including beach yoga and cycling

+ The pools – there is an absolutely stunning 87,000 square foot aquatic area that encompasses the properties’ five pools and waterslides. Private gazebos and cabanas are available to rent and there’s a great poolside food and drink menu.



Wedding:

Our wedding took place on the Ocean Front Lawn and brunch was served at the stunning Aloha Pavilion. We had the most accommodating wedding coordinator, Brittany, who helped us with every step of the planning process and catered to any special requests.

For the reception, the head chef modified our brunch menu and included some of my favorite healthy dishes including banana pancakes and a turmeric tofu scramble. Guests also enjoyed organic coffee and mimosas with fresh squeezed orange juice.

Fleetwood’s on Front Street in Lahaina

We met our dear friends here for dinner towards the end of our stay. The menu has a local, farm-to-table influence and offers several selections for guests with dietary restrictions. I highly suggest sitting outside on the deck as it has the most gorgeous view and stunning, candle-lit ambiance. We were especially touched that the waitstaff brought us champagne and dessert as a congratulatory gesture.

Ho’omana Spa in Makawao

Our dear friends were so kind to gift us the Luxurious Couples Retreat at this hillside oasis the day before our wedding. From the second you step out of the car, you can’t help but notice how peacefully quiet it is. The spa sits on a gorgeous property surrounded by trees and local plants. Inside you’ll find a beautiful, naturally lit space and a warm, hospitable staff.

maka

Sip Me in Makawao

We spotted this little treasure in the heart of Makawao. This is the perfect spot for fresh juices and smoothies, coffee and gluten free baked goods.

Other notable places:

+ Piiholo Ranch – an exhilarating tree top, zip-lining adventure.

+ Ka’anapali beach – perfect for soaking up the sun and only a short walk to many popular restaurants.

+ ABC market – a tourist staple. They have everything from sunscreen to sushi.

+ Miso Phat Sushi – divine avocado rolls and you can bring your own wine or beer.

 

 

Featured, Living Well

5 Simple Things You Can Do on Sunday to Prepare for a Healthy Week

January 29, 2017

Living a healthy life shouldn’t be complicated or time consuming. In fact, it should be the opposite! All it takes is a little planning and preparation.

Here are a few ways you can get started:

Sunday shop.

Take a trip to the grocery store to stock up on healthy ingredients for the week. Plan a general menu and make a list beforehand with meal and snack ideas you want to have on hand.

Some of my weekly essentials include:

  • Bulk section – rolled oats, brown rice, lentils, unsweetened dried fruit, nuts and seeds.
  • Produce – a wide variety of seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs.
  • Refrigerated items –  organic eggs, unsweetened almond milk and tofu.
  • Condiments/flavorings – tahini, natural peanut butter and tamari.
  • Snacks: Dark chocolate, hummus, organic corn tortilla chips and protein bars.

Prepare in bulk.

You can throw a simple, healthy meal together in a snap by prepping large batches of staple foods.

You can easily:

  • Chop up assorted vegetables for stir-fires or snacks.
  • Wash and spin greens for salads.
  • Prep a large batch of brown rice, quinoa, beans or lentils.
  • Portion out and put together an assortment of healthy snacks that you can easily grab on the go.

Pack your gym bag.

Give your gym bag a once-over to ensure it’s well equipped for a week of workouts. I like to make sure that I have:

Stock up on snacks.

When hunger strikes, we’re often tempted to reach for whatever we can get our hands on. It’s important to always have healthy snacks in your handbag or work tote. I’ll often pack:

Do something for yourself.

Before diving into another busy week of work, school and/or responsibilities, take a moment out of your Sunday just for you. It can be as simple as going for a long walk, cleaning the clutter out of your bedroom or workspace or just simply catching up on your favorite tv series with a cup of tea.

Wishing you all a healthful and productive week!

Featured, Living Well

8 Ways to Destress and Recharge Over The Weekend

January 27, 2017
10 Ways to Destress and Recharge Over the Weekend

Happy weekend everyone! Today I’m sharing my tried and tested tips for a relaxing, stress-free weekend.

Do a social media detox. 

We are constantly bombarded with emails, updates and notifications. In a world where we’re reachable almost 24/7, it’s important to log out and power off. If you have work obligations that require you to be near your phone or computer, try logging out of any unnecessary apps (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, ect…) and stick to checking your devices only when needed.

Get moving.

It might seem couterointuatuve to workout after an exhausting week at work, but your body will benefit from some form of  physical activity. On the weekend, I opt for more restorative forms of exercise such as yoga, pilates or a brisk walk outdoors.

Try something new. 

If you find disconnecting from the workweek difficult, try implementing a new activity into your weekend. It can be as simple as trying a new yoga studio or testing your culinary skills in a cooking class.

Learn to say NO.

Social obligations often fill up our weekends keeping us as busy and active as the week prior. If you’re craving some R&R, honor that by politely declining.

Make a plan. 

One of the best things you can do to prepare for a healthy week is to plan your menu. You can easily set yourself up for success by visiting your local market and picking up fresh produce, lean protein and healthy grains for the week.

Prepare yourself for a deep and restful sleep.

Consider implementing a nighttime ritual to prepare your mind & body for a quality nights sleep. I often turn off all technology 1-2 hours before bed, take a warm bath and curl up with a book and some chamomile tea. Find what works for you and stick with it for the week to come.

When in doubt, write it out. 

If you’re constantly feeling frazzled by your to-do lists and full inbox, take time to write a detailed plan to conquer your current tasks at hand. Not only will writing everything down help you relax, you’ll also be prepared for the following week.

Take time out for some self-love. 

It’s important to give yourself a little TLC after a long week. Get a manicure/pedicure, treat yourself to a new book or make a healthy, homemade breakfast. (My Swedish pancake recipe is divine.)

Wishing all of you a healthful & restful weekend!

Dessert, Featured, Food

Dreamy Peanut Butter Cookies

January 26, 2017
Dreamy Peanut Butter Cookies

These ‘Dreamy Peanut Butter Cookies’ will satisfy even the strongest of peanut butter cravings! Not only are they melt-in-your-mouth decadent, they’re also packed with healthy ingredients. Best of all, they’re completely suitable for those who want a gluten-free, dairy free or refined sugar free recipe. Get ready dive into this brilliant blend of savory, salty peanut butter and sweet, toasty coconut sugar. You’re going to love them!

Ingredients: 

  • 1 1/4 cups all-purpose gluten free flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1/2 teaspoon fine salt
  • 8 tablespoons (1 stick) Earth Balance, at room temperature
  • 3/4 cups smooth, unsweetened peanut butter, at room temperature
  • 1/2 cup coconut sugar
  • 1/2 cup maple syrup
  • 1 large organic egg, at room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 1 cup dark chocolate chips or peanut butter chips (optional)

Directions: 

  1. Preheat the oven to 350°
  2. Whisk together dry ingredients in a medium bowl and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, blend butter, peanut butter, coconut sugar and maple syrup. Stir in vanilla and egg.
  4. Add flour in thirds and blend until smooth.
  5. Fold in chocolate chips or peanut butter chips if you choose.
  6. Roll mixture into 1 1/2 inch balls and press down with the tines of a fork.
  7. Place on a nonstick baking pan and bake for 10 minutes or until the edges are golden brown.
  8. Cool the cookies on a rack before serving.

Yield: About 25-30 cookies.

Prep time: 10 minutes.

Total time: 20 minutes.

Notes/Tips:

  • Cookies can store in an airtight container for up to 5 days.