raw through the winter months

I have recently been asked how I manage to eat a raw diet during the very chilly months of winter here in Canada. "Sure, eating raw is easy in California but in Canada, our bodies need warm cooked foods!"
:)

Maintainting a raw diet and lifestyle during the winter months simply requires a deeper understanding and appreciation for what the body really needs to be "warm". There are many beautiful warming spices and whole foods available this time of year and in fact, the healthiest choices are often what is in season. Winter is the time for root vegetables, squashes and celery, dark leafy greens such as kale and warming spices such as garlic, ginger, cinnamon and cloves.

I personally love juicing and continue to do so through the winter, simply adding ginger or cinnamon to my dreamy mixtures. Celery, carrot and ginger is a lovely blend, as is apple, beet and garlic. Yes, garlic! You may want to crush the garlic separately and then add to the juice rather than run it through your juicer - you may end up with garlic flavored juice for the next few rounds :)

Spice up your lunches or dinners with root vegetable salads and add a creamy dressing made from ground almonds, pure water, garlic, lemon and your favorite herbs.

Nut pate's with warming herbs and spices make a beautiful additional to winter dinners. Spreading the pate onto sheets of nori (dried seaweed) along with avocado and sprouts, rolling and slicing into bite size pieces creates a wonderful snack or first course as well.

The options are as infinite as our imaginations. Start simple and build upon your personal tastes.

And remember, staying warm is also as easy as going for a nice long walk (with an extra layer of woolies!). The key to maintaining warmth is in healthy blood flow and circulation so spice up your lunches and dinners and allow your body to lead you on a beautiful walk in the great outdoors. Enjoy the natural gifts that abundantly surround us in this beautiful country. Breath in the fresh air, soak in the beautiful pine trees and enjoy the crackling sound of the snow under your feet. Your mind, body and spirit will thank you, graciously.

Blessings and gratitude from Canada.
xo
Corinne