Fall has always felt like a big transition period for me -- more so than the new year. I spend time planning and setting goals for what I want to accomplish and find that major life changes often happen during this time of year. With all the chaos that can bring, I have found certain things to help keep me grounded, including this tortilla soup (recipe below!) that was a staple in my house growing up. Check out my list of old + new fall favorites!
YOGA
Yoga has played a major part in my life, more so in the past 8 months than ever before. It took me a while to fully understand the benefits, which I posted about awhile back here. But this fall, I have been really into the early morning classes or evening classes where we get to practice while the sun is coming up or setting. If you are in SF and haven't been to Yoga Flow, make sure to check it out. I highly recommend Erin's classes -- she is such a powerful teacher and does a great job connecting with her students.
BLUE LIGHT GLASSES
New on this list -- blue light blocking glasses! I spend so many hours a day being exposed to blue light from my desktop at work, to my phone/laptop, and even the TV. Blue light suppresses melatonin production for more than twice as long as other light wavelengths, and alters circadian rhythms which affects your hormone balance. These glasses are a huge help when it comes to sticking to my non-negotiable about getting 8 hours of sleep every night. Blue light blocking glasses help your brain reset for sleep and increase melatonin. There are sooo many options out there these days including the inexpensive ones like I got on Amazon.
ONGUARD ESSENTIAL OIL
Onguard essential oil is always a favorite during this time of year. Made of Wild Orange Peel, Clove Bud, Cinnamon Leaf, Cinnamon Bark, Eucalyptus Leaf, and Rosemary Leaf/Flower the smell immediately reminds me of fall. Known for its immune support it helps give me that extra support needed when the weather starts to shift. You can ingest it in capsule form, diffuse it, or even use it as a household cleaning product. I highly recommend it when traveling, especially during the holiday season!
INCENSE
Another new territory for me is Incense. I got this set from India about 6 years ago and it sat on my coffee table unopened for years. The last few weeks I've been lighting them more and more and have found so much calmness in the new scent. It is a great alternative to candles and oils if you are in the mood for something different.
SWEET POTATO TORTILLA SOUP
And then there's food! I've talked about the importance of eating warming foods during the fall and winter months. Not only are they great for the digestive system but I truly believe they are necessary for the soul as well. They are the comfort foods that our grandparents or family members make and remind us of home. This tortilla soup is one that I remember having multiple bowls of on many Seattle rainy fall days at home. I am excited to share this simple recipe with you!
Sweet Potato Tortilla Soup Recipe
Serves 4
INGREDIENTS:
28 oz can of organic crushed tomatoes
32 oz of organic chicken or vegetable stock
3 garlic cloves
1 jalapeno (optional)
1 can of organic black beans
1.5 cups of organic frozen white corn
1 sweet potato
1 avocado
7 oz full fat Greek yogurt
Cilantro
Tortilla chips
(For a meat version you can add shredded chicken)
DIRECTIONS:
1. Blend tomatoes, stock, garlic cloves, and jalapeno in blender or Vitamix on low until fully liquid. Feel free to add a cup of water if it is still too thick for your liking.
2. Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Cube the sweet potato with the skin on and place on a baking sheet. Drizzle with avocado oil and sea salt and put in the oven for 20 minutes.
3. Pour broth mixture in a large pot and place on medium heat.
4. Rinse black beans and add to pot with frozen corn.
5. Add roasted sweet potato to soup and cook for 2 more minutes.
6. Slice avocado into fourths and cube.
7. Squeeze lime juice into soup and serve. Top with avocado, tortilla chips, a dollop of yogurt, and cilantro
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