5 Ways Laughter Keeps You Healthy

We’ve all heard the phrase, “Laughter is the best medicine,” and whoever said it is probably right. Several studies have emerged showing laughter as a great way to keep one’s mind and body fully healthy. Here are five potential benefits of enjoying a good chuckle every now and then.

Chocolate Pudding Parfait (Vegan)

This parfait is a nice light treat to enjoy after a big meal! The balance of cool creamy coconut, rich chocolate pudding and chewy granola combine to create a blend of flavors and textures that are unlike any other dessert. With easy ingredients and minimal preparation, no one will ever know that you spent less than hour making this from scratch. Serve it in a tall glass for a fancy affair where you are sure to impress!

Chocolate Pudding Parfait (Vegan)

*Serves 2-4

Ingredients:

1 cup Coconut Cream (chilled)

5 Tips on Eating Healthy & Saving Time On a Busy Schedule

If you are like me, you need to eat right when you get home from work. That generally means opening the fridge and grabbing the first thing I see that doesn't need preparation. This can lead to poor eating decisions and gorging on extra calories. Limited time and a grumbling stomach are not a good mix when it comes to making health-conscious eating decisions. I knew that if I was going to make better choices, it was time I made a few changes to my regimen. This is how I found a way to avoid the junk food with a hectic schedule.

#WellnessWednesday - Yoga for Life: Week 29

Navasana / Boat

Benefits:

Strengthens the abs and hip flexor muscles.

Stimulates and tones the abdominal organs.

Foundation & General Alignment:

Balanced on the pelvis, slightly above the sitting bones.

Knees/legs straight if hamstrings allow it.

Feet are active and in “floint” (pointing but flexed).

Pelvis is in a neutral position.

90 degree angle between thighs and pelvis.

Chest is lifted and shoulders are back.

Living Off The Grid: Eco-friendly Gadgets

It is always funny to me how old new age technology is. Hand-cranked gadgets go back a long time -- in fact, they predate electricity. However, there have been several new technologies made available that provide more modern hand-cranked, solar, and wind-powered products.

Off-grid living can take some getting used to, but there are all sorts of products, tools, and equipment to make the transition smoother.

Here are some of my favorite hand-cranked products.

Fun, Festive Fall Activities for the Whole Family

Say it with me: fall is fabulous. So, how do we take advantage of this special time of year, while it’s here? We plan, and make sure our weekends are jam-packed with activities that just scream “fall.” Duh. To bump up your family’s fall spirit, give these 15 super enjoyable fall activities a whirl.

The Pros & Cons Of Getting A Flu Shot

Most people consider the flu (or influenza) to be a typical fever with aches and pains. That fever, however, usually affects 300,000 to 600,000 people a year. About 200,000 people end up in the hospital as a result, and an average of up to 49,000 don’t survive. A flu shot can help prevent you from getting the flu, but rumors of the vaccine giving you the virus and affecting prior allergies have people reluctant to get one.

Pumpkin Seeds 3 Ways (Vegan)

What to do with all those pumpkin seeds after carving is done? Roast them and eat them, of course! After cleaning off the seeds simply coat them in the seasonings of your choice and spread them out on a baking sheet to be cooked until golden brown (30-45 minutes, flipping halfway through) at 300 degrees Fahrenheit.

  1. Sweet: Butter, Cinnamon & Sugar

There is nothing quite like the smell of butter, sugar and cinnamon baking away in a cozy house. Bring the fall season to life with this sweet seasoning for your pumpkin seeds.

Easy Dinner Recipe: Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Poached Eggs

One of my favorite things about fall is buying Brussels sprouts on a stalk. The first time I saw the giant stalk, I couldn't wait to get home and experiment with recipes. After trying different soups, salads, and roasted pairings, this is one recipe that has become a staple in my home.