How to Handle Seasonal Food Cravings Without Going Crazy!

The idea for this post came when I got home from yoga class and I found myself craving, no needing more food than usual.


So really, a plate full of nachos told me to write this...  ;)

Handling Seasonal Craving Without Going Crazy WeightFreeWellness.com

When I thought about it... I distinctly noticed this feeling as... it's fall... it's time for warm, rich foods... like NOW!



I get it... I've been overweight and underweight in my life. I understand the struggle between what the body is craving and what the mind is reasonably (at first) trying to convince the body to do or feel... what it does or does not need.



In my Weight Free Wellness Programs I get into the meat and potatoes (Yum!) of tools for self-understanding, self-compassion and taking the weight off your own shoulders... which incidentally makes it much easier to lead a healthy life!



But for today, I'll share a few things that I've learned and have helped me over the years...




How to Handle those Fall and Winter Food Cravings:

Each Body-type has it's own unique challenges with Food during the Holidays...

• Did you know that the craving for sweet things is very natural? In times when food was scarce (an argument could be made that real food still is) that this craving would lead us to eat sweet, calorie-rich foods when available, to store energy for times of scarcity. Satiate this true craving by eating seasonal, naturally sweet root vegetables (beets, carrots, sweet potatoes) and squashes. When you give the body what it is really seeking, cravings for processed sweets decreases. Seek high quality, organic foods whenever possible, not only because of chemicals that are spared for the Earth and our bodies, but these vegetables are often more nutrient-rich; it is the nutrients that our bodies deeply desire too, not just the taste! If weight management is a concern, eat these sweet vegetables for the noon meal and have vegetable soup or my easy and delicious Egg Drop Soup which can be made in just 20 minutes!

Get This Recipe Here... and Much More!

• On a similar note, if you are not already, take a multi mineral and multivitamin supplement. When the body is getting the nutrients it needs, we have fewer cravings. Did you know that our body cues us to the nutritional needs we have by the flavors we crave? Fascinating!

• I know, here it is again... Yes, drink enough water! It's amazing how often hunger can be mistaken for what is really thirst!  Because I get asked so often... FYI- I drink Mountain Valley Spring water. 

• Certain Body-types react differently to this season change. Earth-types are ready to cook and bake, settle in for the long winter with a good book or projects and have the hardest time not indulging in the warm, unctuous foods so typical of this season. For them it is most helpful to keep dairy intake to a minimum (as if it's a condiment), eat modest proportions of the sweet vegetables named above, and opt for evening dishes that are mostly made of cooked vegetables with tasty culinary herbs. This not only helps with weight management, but to help prevent ailments that Earth-types are prone to. For more on how to help balance the Earth-type, see my book, You-niversal Self-care. Fire-types typically have very active metabolisms and the sweet veggies help to naturally calm their fire and satiate cravings for sweets. (Earth-types eat sweets by sneaking them into their mouths over time, Fire-types binge-eat sweets...) Air-types need to eat hearty foods more than others to help keep them grounded, balanced and naturally well-energized. While Air-types are notorious for being able to eat a lot and not gain a pound; eating predominantly processed foods depletes the Air-type of energy more than anything. They may feel an initial spike in energy, but they most often feel the crash at the end.

• There are so many things I could list, but I'm striving to keep it basic. Why not list the entire list? Well, because I've found that when you address core issues, the many other things are automatically taken care of. So, finally, rest. Get 6-8 hours of quality sleep. Turn off screens at least 1 hour before bed. Sleep a regular schedule. Don't eat at least 3 hours before bed. Avoid drinking alcohol or stimulants, late in the day especially. Notice if anything else you are doing is disturbing your sleep. If you're doing these things and it's still not working, I recommend seeing a professional. This is a topic worth expanding- I'll likely write more in the future.

Which Body-type 'are' you?

Taking the Free Body-type Assessment from my book is the perfect way to learn more. Get it here!

For more about Body-typing:

Check out my book You-niversal Self-care: Improved Health Through Self-Understanding
Get the FREE Ebook and Audiobook here!

Get my FREE Weight Free Wellness Cookbook! 
Links also in the upper right section of this site.


And! Check out my Events page for Free Holiday Wellness Q&A Webinars!

Last, but not least- as I say in many of my classes... Have compassion for yourself...

Tweet: Work WITH your body rather than working ON it!

If you found this helpful, please share this! Thanks!


Wishing you well-ness!

With Love,

Tara

Air-types: Managing the Holidays with Food Sensitivities

All Body-types can experience digestive issues, but the Air-type, with their more delicate make-up is more easily thrown off balance.

Managing the Holidays with Food Sensitivities - WeightFreeWellness.com

The Holiday season provides a perfect recipe for Air-types to be thrown off: time crunches which leads to less time for self-care, which leads to less time for typical meal preparation, not enough sleep, and the increasing to-do list adding to the buzz of an already normally hyper-active Air mind... whew! Just reading this could make any Type anxious and tired.

We have so many things pulling on us just in normal, daily life, but during the holidays there are more events, more food to prepare and more social pressures to live up to or stand your ground. It all takes energy.

The volatile Air-type needs to approach the Holidays with simple objectives in mind. I suggest that before dates start being exchanged and roles are divvied out; tune into yourself.


How many events per week or per month will you commit to?

Which self-care habits will you be adamant about keeping (baths, exercise, time alone, etc.)

Which foods do you know throw you off and which ones help you to feel well? Get clear on how you feel after consuming each of them so that just the thought of it makes you clear on whether you want to consume it (yay, this feels good!) or not (oh no, this feels very bad!).


As I explain in my book, You-niversal Self-care, Air-Types tend to react to their environments (much like the air patterns of weather systems).

Get the FREE Ebook and Audiobook here!


It takes a lot of dedication and forethought, but when Air-types create a healthy and helpful environment for themselves, it's not only easier for them to keep making these helpful decisions, but others in their life also benefit from their more even-keel mental, emotional and physical state.

Let's talk some more about how Air-types can keep those healthy food habits during the Holidays.

Join one of my FREE Q&A sessions to address your questions about Body-types, Food and the Holidays.

I have a lot to share on this topic as I have a lot of Air-tendencies myself. It will also be insightful for you to understand the Air-types in your life!

Also, check out my FREE Weight Free Wellness Cookbook for many allergen-free and Body-type specific recipes. More recipes to come!

Download your FREE copy, just click the image.

 



More help in this video I made for you!

Fire-types: Food and the Holidays

It's easiest to spot a Fire-type any day or time, simply because they are that "Type-A" person that just stands out.

Because Fire-types are so driven and focused, they can become this way with their food as well: there are two sides to this coin...

They can be so regimented and particular that their eating habits can become more of an issue for other people (trying to keep up Fire-types' standards) rather than seeming to hinder themselves.


Learn more about the Fire-Types and their ways-of-being in my upcoming FREE web-class.



On the other-hand, when Fire-types are so focused on other things like work or study that they easily lose focus of their eating habits and consume large amounts of food in one sitting.


The Fire-type is the Type that is most likely to binge eat. They naturally have a large appetite, for life in general including: adventure, drive for success and achievement, and the literal sense of having a substantial appetite.


In may seem fortunate that Fire-types are also blessed with an equally active metabolism, but if a Fire-type goes too long (months,or years for others) with unhealthy eating habits, it does eventually catch up to them.


Be mindful about eating during the Holidays. Especially Fire-types!


Is your routine thrown off therefor diverting your focus? Is the time you would usually spend working or going to the gym thwarted by driving to a destination, sitting for hours and eating?


Find some way to keep those healthy and helpful routines in your life. Perhaps replace work-time with some time for reading or focused quality time with love-ones. If your gym is closed on the holidays, plan an exercise activity with friends, try something new... overall, keep your focus!


On the other hand, it can actually be quite helpful for a Fire-type to have to adjust their focus a bit as they can become hyper-focused and get in a rut: but in regard to the topic of food, it is helpful for them to keep some focus, for when Fire-types go into "vacation" mode, they go all-in; kicking healthy habits to the curb.


Maybe you are one of these hyper-focused Fire-types whose normally stringent habits could use a temporary kicking to the curb. That's what You-niversal Self-care is all about... knowing your body so you can help your body find balance.

So, why the bit about 

"The wrong person made the mashed potatoes?"

Well, the Fire-type will tell you exactly how they want their favorite holiday foods (including who should make it) and are not afraid to comment when the food is not right.


The delivery of the message can vary from straight-forward, to comical to snide; it just depends on the Emotional Intelligence of the Fire-type. (Be sure to stay tuned for more relationship and Body-typing coming soon!)



Attend my FREE Q&A webinars and other events available to you around the world! Do you have questions about 'your' Body-type? Check out the events here!




Whether you "are" a Fire-type or have one in your life, you'll gain great insight into their habits, what throws them off and what helps them get back on track and especially how to manage the Fire in your life!

WeighFreeWellness Holiday Web-classes

More helpful insights in this video I made 

just for you!

What do you need? Part 2

What do you need?

Get unstuck

Create healthy habits

Feel good about yourself!

Live!

FREE helpful webinars here!

Watch this short video...

Earth-types: A Compassionate View of the Love-Hate Relationship with Food

The Holidays can be challenging for all Types, but given that this season is tied together with Food, Family and Tradition--the 'things' Earth-types tend to value most--Earth-types are extra vulnerable during this festive season.


Earth-types are usually the ones who are hosting events, coordinating food, pulling out the decorations as soon as they can, and cherishing each memory tied with every memorable piece.


We all have an idealistic vision of how the holiday season should be- but the nurturing Earth-types are especially idealistic in this way.


Likely to suck-it-up for the sake of creating that quintessential holiday gathering, they will put-up with a lot of grief to have just a piece of this idealistic vision.


It's easy to love and care for an Earth-type very deeply, as they are the types who often share their love freely and consistently with us. 


Other Body-types can find themselves challenged during this season as they do not want to let down the beloved Earth-type in their life.

WeightFreeWellness.com

Others can feel stuck; wanting to please this nurturing figure in their life and not wanting to compromise their own values: having less tolerance to put up with s*** that others dish out during this season that Earth-types will endure for the cause.


An Earth-type will sense this struggle but in many cases will quietly (maybe this is more in the region of the country I live in) but persistently pressure others to follow suit. There can be a lot of guilt and shame that arrises from this silent but active battle.


Earth-types are the Body-type most likely to mask their feelings (or perhaps trying to elevate their mood) by eating foods.


Let's face it, who doesn't have family issues? But Earth-type would rather not see this reality.


The Holiday Season creates the perfect storm for turning to food for comfort: the volatile situation with family during a season when an Earth-type just wants to gather all their loved-ones, please their tummies with delicious food (that reminds them of good-times) but this idealistic vision is just so difficult to pull together... Sometimes the only solution seems to be to enjoy the foods (albeit alone and/or in secret) to conjure up warm memories of baking in the kitchen with grandma or with the kids when they were little.


For Earth-types, it's easy to escape into memories- and they are easily lead by the mementos and especially foods that take them there.


Does this sound like you or someone you know?


Understanding this Type is a huge step towards dealing with this Type in a healthy and compassionate way during the holidays- especially if this Type is you!



Join me in my FREE webclass when I will share much, much more about the Earth-types and their (seeming) unending struggle with food and the challenges this presents over the holidays.


During the webclass I will give a solid overview of this topic and still leave plenty of time for your questions- as this is the best way to make sure you're getting what you want!


Of course, I will present a solution for how you can not only end the Love-Hate relationship with food, but also feel more compassion and love for yourself!


I love engaging with my audience and I hope you'll accept my invitation!


Register for the Free webclass here!


By the way, it's super easy to attend. Just register, click the link in your email before the class starts and there you are! You can even attend via your iPad or phone!

(If this event is already closed when you're reading this go to Events where you will find the next webclass!)


What's 'your' Body-type?

Get my Free Body-type Assessment from my book!



Also, get a head-start learning about 'your' Body-type, and the Foods, Exercises and Habits that help each Body-type feel more balanced.




Here is the FREE Ebook and Audiobook of my book You-niversal Self-care: Improved Health Through Self-Understanding!




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The Fight of a Woman - What Every Man (and Woman) Should Know

I talk about the elements a lot -  being the foundational topic of my book, You-niversal Self-care; and the element of Fire often gets a very bad rap.


I believe all women have an inner pilot light. A lingering fire that is different than the innate fire of the masculine energy. Some women burst into a roaring fire at a young age, some hold back a deep inner flame from burning through their whole lives, and others (few, I believe) barely stir.


This is a challenging article for me to write. It's a fiery topic- pun sorta' intended. But, with some recent encouragement from a fellow author, I continue . . .


I seldom struggle to put words together, but with this topic I do because I want the true intention of what I am saying to be very clear. The more I re-read this, the less explaining I think it needs. I'm gonna let'r' rip!


Men, not all fiery women are femi-nazi's and b*****s.

The Fight of a Woman - TarasBook.com

Women, if you feel the fire stirring within you to fight, ask yourself (or ask your fiery girlfriends and do them a favor):

1. Is this your fight?
2. Do the people you're fighting for want your kind of help?
3. What is your objective? (Hint, without this you will likely keep fighting to fight.)

Like I would say to any person with a lot of Fire in them, be wise and channel your Fire; it can cause a lot of destruction, but it can also be the power needed for a lot of great change.

If you grew up in a Fiery environment, be careful in 'fighting a cause' because that's all you know.


The women who have been in the trenches are very clear on the cause. They don't fight to fight- they want to end the fight and continue life as soon as possible. Are you in the original fight or have you been drafted in?


Women, you are very powerful. Some men have been burned out just by being around you.


It's helpful to observe, what lights your fire (a personal cause, a feeling of injustice, etc.); is it kindling, heating the stove, burning a hole through you, or scorching those around you?

 (Learn more about how to balance a Fiery nature and how it can be a good thing in my book, You-niversal Self-care!)

Women, we have so much power coupled with our natural capacities for empathy and love. Let's channel it all as effectively as possible!

How does this relate to self-healing?

Contemplate this:

What goes on in our outer life and how we treat others is a mirror for how we treat ourselves.

Keep your deepest desire and purpose in mind; what is the solution you desire? There is no fight unless your desired result is to fight.  


Let me leave it to Mother Teresa to teach about purpose . . .

“I was once asked why I don't participate in anti-war demonstrations. I said that I will never do that, but as soon as you have a pro-peace rally, I'll be there.”

With much love,

Tara

Natural Solutions and Remedies for Dry, Flaky and Cracked Skin - I Wish I Had 20 years Ago

Head's up - this is probably my longest post, but for the person suffering with skin issues, it's a treasure trove of information. I am not saying this to toot my own horn, it's just that I wished I had had this information in one place many years ago, so here it is for you. With Love, Tara

Painful skin, no matter what the reason, can be very challenging to deal with- I know, I've been learning from my skin for over 20 years.


Dry skin is a key indicator of the Air-type Body-type. What's "Your" Body-type?
Get the Free Body-typing Assessment!

I first recall my skin being very dry at the age of 9. It was so dry that many clothes would cause a low-grade but noticeable discomfort throughout the day. I would not wear jeans because of the burning friction they caused at my waistline and ankles especially. It was so dry that my hands and feet would crack and bleed, the only ease coming from a thick coat of oily lotion; not to heal the issue, but to create a barrier between my inflamed skin and whatever could cause increased disturbance.


My skin was so dry I avoided swimming pools for years. The chlorinated water would cause a burning sensation all over my body that did not rinse off in the shower. My first experience in the ocean was similar, only it was at least 10 times worse. What was supposed to be a joyful first experience with my beloved cousin, Grandma and Grandpa, turned into great disappointment. Fortunately, my Grandma was prepared with Corn Huskers and Coco Butter lotions. And fortunately, the rest of the trip was positively memorable!


Through the years, it became normal to walk to accommodate my dry, cracked feet; to be very uncomfortable in my own skin during the fall and winter months, to feel piercing pain when I simply washed my hands due to the cracks in my hands. As I came of age I became more determined to find my own solutions- frustrated that the professionals that I was brought to could not.


I have realized many things over the years about this condition, which has greatly improved. Mostly, I have learned to work with my own body, rather than working on it: To accept that my body leans towards having a lot of Air-type symptoms and use this as feedback and information, rather than criticizing myself, getting frustrated and judging myself unfairly. Body-Typing is the theme of my book, You-niversal Self-care.


Get the Free Body-typing Assessment!


I am sharing some uncommon remedies, things that one may not think of or be told by specialists; in order to help anyone else out there who may be suffering such a condition.


The skin is the largest organ of the body, and traditional medicine practitioners know that there are many, many clues that the skin gives in regard to the overall condition of the body.


The skin is the outward manifestation of the intestinal system- once the same unit in the very early stages of fetal development. For this reason the skin especially indicates the condition of the digestive system, namely the intestinal tract.


There are many stories and lengthy explanations that can accompany each of these items, but for sake of space I will leave most of them out. I freely share such experiences in my classes and one-on-one sessions.


I was going to post a picture of dry, cracked skin but it was painful to just look at them. If you have dry skin you know what it looks and feels like. Instead, I'd like to share some hope. This is a photo of me with no body makeup and relatively light makeup on my face, and no photo touch-ups. This is the skin I enjoy today. I get compliments all the time, but most of all, I am free from pain!

Tara Baklund - Natural Skin Remedies - TarasBook.com

Here is a list of solutions that helped me greatly.

This is not medical advice, only a list of key things that have worked for me to heal painful skin conditions that I experienced.

• Make sure the water you bathe in is "soft" water. I currently live in Minnesota where we have iron and mineral-rich water. I find that a sediment filter also helps a great deal.

• Do an elimination diet. I found the 7-Day Detox Miracle book very helpful for this- and there are some simple remedies that are well-described in the book for natural cleansing.

• You will likely find you are sensitive to certain foods; likely gluten and/or dairy. Make a commitment to remember how good you felt when not eating these foods as motivation to no longer consume them. The more severe your original condition, the easier it is to do this. I highly recommend the book Wheat Belly for great information on the topic of gluten sensitivity.

• At this point you will be gaining more familiarity with your body, and how it reacts to natural remedies. I would go to a Naturopathic Doctor to do biofeedback to test whether you have conditions such as: Candidiasis, a low-grade bacterial or viral infection to name a few. This type of person should be able to lead you through a step by step process of cleansing and balancing the systems of the body. Some Chiropractors have this equipment and training. When in doubt, seek a referral. The right person will equip you with remedies and information that will have quick results- as long as you follow their instructions thoroughly! 

• Bathe in tepid to lukewarm water as to not strip oils from the skin. Bathe every-other-day if possible, washing key areas with a washcloth. A shallow bath also works well. Only use soap in the "pits" of the body. Avoid harsh soaps.

• Eat clean foods- as close to organic as possible, especially meat and dairy products, root vegetables and delicate fruits and vegetables like spinach and raspberries.

• Consider the metaphoric message your skin is sending. Could it be that: You feel that the barrier between you and the outside world is weak? You are not or do not feel fully nourished--of the major organs, the skin receives last priority in nourishment.

• Use only natural lotions and oils on the skin without synthetic fragrances. Could you eat it? Then you can put it on your skin. Try oils like sesame, sweet almond, jojoba, grapeseed and coconut, etc. Apply after bathing to hold in the moisture.

• Consume Earthy foods that nourish the body from the inside out. (See my book for list.)

• Your Naturopath or other natural health practitioner you are working with should at some point address digestion. Depending on your condition this may not be the first priority. It's very important that your body can digest and assimilate food well for nutrients- especially oils.

• Especially in the summer, consume cooling drinks like natural fruit juices, cucumber water and aloe (meat, not the entire filet). This may be indicated for some people year- around as some dry-skin conditions are due to internal heat. Much like hanging a wet shirt over a heat register, internal heat (a Traditional Chinese Medicine term) can similarly dry the skin.

• Be patient and kind with yourself and your skin. Be open to receiving any messages your body is giving you.

• Whether it's a Naturopath, a Chiropractor, Herbalist or other natural health practitioner, make sure they are addressing your specific body and condition, rather than running you through a "dry skin regimen" (note- This is different than if a Naturopath runs you through a biofeedback process, which tests and remedies in a particular order. Biofeedback by it's nature is an individualized treatment). Every body is different and should be addressed as so.

• Oh, and let us not forget about water! If a person is already experiencing dis-ease, it is necessary to drink even more water. Imagine you are charged with the task of cleaning a very dirty floor. This task calls for more water than a moderately dirty floor, right? Make sure you consume a minimum of 1/2 x (your body weight in pounds)= oz. of water. Not: chlorinated, fluorinated, bottled or distilled. We choose to add minerals to Reverse Osmosis water.

This is a good, basic list that will help you build a foundation for self-empowered health if you are diligent enough to explore, test, observe and explore some more.

Some of these solutions may seem almost too simple, but please don't under-estimate their importance and effectiveness.


Most of all, have compassion and love yourself along the way. Work with your body, not on it!

Wishing you well!

Free Body-type Assessment

Homemade Body Scrub Recipe with Natural Alpha-hydroxy Acids

All Natural Homemade Sugar Scrub Recipe

Every body(type) can benefit from a good, exfoliating scrub.


I've been discovering and creating internal and external remedies for my skin for a very long time. My dominant Air Element tendencies show up in my skin. Since a young age I've had to remedy very dry, flaky skin.


Here is an external remedy skin remedy I created with adaptations for the other Body-types.


May your skin be refreshed and rejuvenated just how it likes it!


Earth-types tend to have naturally moist, soft skin. For this type of person I would recommend trying a significant variation of this recipe. Earth-types often do not need to moisturize, so most would probably be averse to trying this recipe, as the thought of having the residue of oil on their skin is not appealing. Try replacing the oils with an equal amount of honey, about 7 Tablespoons. This should give similar benefits, without the oily finish. Try an essential oil that is lively and invigorating like Grapefruit. (Grapefruit is a light-sensitive essential oil so be mindful about sun exposure within approximately 24 hours of use. In some cases sun exposure after applying this oil can cause an orange discoloration of the skin.)


Fire-types may gravitate towards the sugar and honey recipe adaptation for the Earth-types or the traditional recipe. Fiery people tend to be rather intense in their actions, so if you have Fire-type tendencies, be mindful to not scrub so vigorously. The sugar crystals can cause micro abrasions if used with force. Keep in mind that it is not just the scrubbing action that exfoliated the skin; the breaking down of the sugar creates naturally exfoliating, Alpha-hydroxy acids. Try a cooling or calming essential oil like Lavender in your scrub.


Air-types benefit greatly from this sugar scrub. The natural alpha-hydroxy acids and friction from the sugar crystals rubbed on the skin exfoliate the skin well; the oils followup and deeply nourish and moisturize. Be careful with delicate Air-type skin and gently exfoliate with this scrub. Try a calming and grounding essential oil like rose or myrrh. These oils are rather expensive if they are truly therapeutic grade and also well-known for their benefits to the skin, so use as many drops as you are willing. Another great option is Lavender or Orange. (Orange is a light-sensitive essential oil so be mindful about sun exposure within approximately 24 hours of use. In some cases sun exposure after applying this oil can cause an orange discoloration of the skin.)


Water-types may find the traditional version of the recipe best suited for them during the Fall and Winter months and the Earth-type honey variation for the Spring and Summer months. If I were dominant in the Water Element I would choose the suggested essential oil based on my secondary Body-type Element.


For use on the body only. Do no use scrub on the face, neck, and other areas of the body with delicate skin.

My book, You-niversal Self-care explains the Body-types - with an interwoven empowering message. Learn your Body-type here with the Free Assessment from my book!

All Natural Homemade Body Sugar Scrub #TarasBook - Great Dry Skin Remedy!

The completed product will be brown like light brown sugar.

This recipe has made it's way in my new Weight Free Wellness Cookbook! Download your free copy!

Get This Recipe Here... and Much More!



How I use the scrub:
The best time to do this is before bed so the benefit of the oils can soak in overnight.

Prepare by bringing your scrub, bath towel and wash cloth into the bathroom. You don't want to be fetching anything when your covered in oily scrub!

Accept the fact that you will be getting your shower or bathtub messy with scrub and oils. I find a bathtub to work best for this process.

Prepare as you would for a shower or bath i.e. putting hair up, undress, etc.

Scoop out the scrub with your finger tips and generously apply to your recently bathed or dry skin. Spread it over your skin and begin gently scrubbing in circular patterns, changing direction to encourage skin to slough off. Spend perhaps 30 seconds in one area (the lower leg for example) and move on to another section (upper leg).

When the lower body has been covered and scrubbed, start drawing a warm bath to sit in. As the bath fills start gently scrubbing up to your upper body one section at at time. You may only desire to fill the bath with a couple inches of water.

Stand or squat and do a final rinse with fresh water or a quick rinse in the shower and you're done!

Rinse the shower or bathtub immediately with very hot water and wipe down to clean and prevent build-up. Especially if you use Coconut butter, which hardens at room temperature, the oil will be very challenging to clean from the preparation bowls and in the bathroom if not at least rinsed with very hot water immediately.

Does this seem like a lot of work? Yeah, it takes a bit of effort. But if you have chronically dry or flaky skin it's especially worth the effort!

Enjoy!

Learn more about the Body-types and which 

foods, exercises and habits can naturally help you feel better!

Simple and Delicious Bison Stew Recipe - Gluten and Dairy Free

Bison Stew is one of my favorite meals in a bowl that I make throughout the colder months- which is a long time here in MN!

It's a well-rounded dish that is balancing for most Body-types. Stews are naturally very balancing for Fall, Winter and even Spring months. The only type that needs to be mindful is the Earth-type, who will benefit by adding some extra pepper to help move all the Water Element that tends to slow down and become like stagnant water (showing up as mucous or simple water retention) during this season.

If a person has Earth dominance including issues with being overweight; reducing the potatoes and carrots by half can help.  I also purposefully make my recipes low-salt as salt can always be added. Earth and Water-types easily retain water when they consume too much salt. Himalayan Crystal Salt is a milder, softer-flavored salt than while table (I do not use) or even sea salt.

This dish is excellent for Air-types who benefit from the nutrient dense stock, hardy root vegetables and overall moisture and warmth. I even eat it for breakfast, yum!

Enjoy!

More about Body-typing and food choices for balance in my book, You-niversal Self-care: Improved Health Through Self-Understanding

Bison Stew - Naturally Gluten and Dairy-free #TarasBook

This recipe has been graduated to my Weight Free Wellness Cookbook. Download your free copy!



Get This Recipe Here... and Much More!

How to Know Which Cleanse is Right for You

You Cleanse Should be Right for Your Body-type TarasBook.com

My first Cleanse was a simple elimination regimen. To others, this may not technically be a Cleanse, but by omitting the foods that were causing inflammation in my body, my body moved into a state of homeostasis and healing.

From there I tried all kinds of Cleanses, attempting to fully heal the symptoms of Celiac Disease (there was not a test or diagnosis at the time), IBS, and skin issues that I was experiencing, among other things.

Cleansing Doesn't Have to be Like Climbing a Mountain. TarasBook.com

In this post I will talk about Cleansing in regard to Body-typing; as I found along my wellness journey, and by observing others, there can be more harm than good caused by Cleansing by forcing the body to cleanse in a way that is not suited for their Body-type.

I have a liberal definition of "Cleansing".

Cleansing is Much Easier with the Right Cleanse . . . TarasBook.com

For some people, simply omitting gluten or dairy can help a person's body to naturally cleanse itself and heal.

A simple Way to Cleanse - Drink lots of Water!

When a person has a lot of dis-ease showing up, a more in-depth Cleanse may be appropriate, with the guidance of a trusted health-wellness practitioner.

An educated health-wellness practitioner should take into account not only your current condition, but also your nutritional needs and your constitution/Body-type. This is not medical advice.

What is the Right Cleanse for You? TarasBook.com

Here are some things to keep in mind when considering the cleanse that is right for you:

 Learn 'your' Body-type and more about Body-typing with the Free Assessment from my Book!

Earth-types- This type of person is the type that most benefits from regular cleansing. Their body is most likely to have symptoms of stagnation, and like stagnant water, lack of movement within the body creates a prime breading ground for "bugs". This type tends to easily and readily build mucous. Cleanses that focus on stimulating the body to move toxins out and also break up mucous are very helpful. Also, if I were a person with a lot of Earthy characteristics I would avoid cleanses that are mostly fruit juice (with the Master Cleanse being the exception, do reduce maple syrup) as sweet and starchy foods, no matter their purity, can exacerbate an Earthy condition. Focusing on green vegetables and stimulating external cleansing techniques such as colonics or hot/cold therapy for example, can be very helpful.

Fire-types- Cleanses that focus on cooling the body heat work well. Simple juice cleanses are well-suited for the Fire-type. I have seen and heard it helping to: lower blood pressure, regulate cholesterol; relieve: tension, inflammation, skin issues; indigestion including ulcers and acid reflux, diabetes and other heat-related issues.

Learn 'your' Body-type and more about Body-typing with the Free Assessment from my Book!

Air-types- Having a lot of Air-type characteristics, I have a lot to share on this topic. If you also have a lot of Air or Water characteristics, cleansing can be a very un-grounding experience; but, Air-types can still benefit from cleansing despite the experience tending to be imbalancing by nature to the Air-type. What to keep in mind for the Air-type cleanse is: consume nutrient-dense foods, don't go too long without dietary fats; while traditionally the best times to cleanse are in the seasons of transition i.e. Spring and Autumn, the Air-type feels most grounded in the Summer weather/months and therefor will have a more balanced experience- especially if doing a juice cleanse. Simple bone broth and vegetable soup cleanses can be helpful due to their warming and moisturizing nature. Broths and soups can contain oils that are so helpful for Air-types as well as giving the digestive system a nice break.

Water-types- If you have a lot of Water-type tendencies I would also pay attention to your secondary dominant "type" and perhaps choose a cleanse that is suited for that type. Be mindful of a very liquid-dominant cleanse, cleansing during rainy or wet seasons, and cleansing at times of transition in your life- all of which are dominant in the Water Element. If you have a lot of Water-type tendencies and you feel stuck; this is a good time to shake things loose by cleansing- and flow!

Is a Juice Cleanse Right for You? TarasBook.com

The objective of Cleansing is to find balance (although admittedly it can feel like quite the opposite is happening in the process)- it is important to be diligent about doing what needs to be done for one's health whether it means pushing on or letting back a bit. 

As I say in my book, 

"It's about learning to work with your body, not on it!"

P.S.  You also may be interested . . .

I have heard of people not only losing weight (the common reason people do a "Cleanse"), but also heal from Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis and much more. Great resources to see examples of this are the documentary Fat, Sick & Nearly Dead and Simply Raw: Reversing Diabetes in 30 Days. 

Tara's Easy Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

Free of Gluten, Corn, Eggs, Nuts, Soy

The majority of my recipes do not contain dairy, and if they do I try to create a dairy-free version, but this is such a yummy soup I have to share it as-is!

When I first heard of lemon chicken soup I thought it such an odd combination, but one slurp of it and I was hooked! 

This is also a great way to use leftover chicken . . . and . . . what about those ribs of chard . . . here you go!

Body-typing and Wellness Insights

This is one of our family favorites and it's balancing to most Body-types. Beginning with Earth-types (as I do in my book too); Earth-types will love this soup- naturally gravitating towards the warm, unctuous nature of this soup, especially the dairy. I do not recommend this soup for Earth-types who are out of balance. My book, You-niversal Self-care: Improved Health Through Self-Understanding explains what it's like for an Earth-type to be out of balance and how to find balance. Dairy is a natural balancing element for the Fire-types. (Be sure to use high quality dairy from grass-fed cows.) The citrus flavor is also very appealing and can help keep the emotional channels of the Fire-type in balance. Chicken is typically contraindicated for Fire-types, but when recipes balance themselves out like this one mainly due to the dairy I am not too concerned. (Use chicken that is free-ranged and organic and when possible, from local farms.) This is also a great recipe for Air-types, particularly in the cold, dry months. During this time they need warm, nutrient dense food- being mindful to keep their digestive system strong, especially for digesting meats and fats.  As I describe in my book, Water-types' food choices may be better indicated by their secondary Body-type. Most of all, Water-types will benefit by enjoying the warm, almost nurturing soup in good company.

Learn about the Body-types with this Free Assessment from my Book!

Serving size and quantity:  approx. 6 bowls of soup

Estimated time to prepare:  All day process. Easy, but needs attention periodically during the day.

***Special preparation work***

Thaw chicken overnight. (alternatively thaw during day and refrigerate at night- day 1)

Roast in over on crock pot in morning to prepare soup in afternoon. It's worth repeating . . . Making this soup is an all day process. It's easy to make, but needs attention periodically during the day.

Tara's Easy Lemon Chicken Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

Whole roasted chicken- A 3 pound bird works nicely. 4 cups of leftover chicken works well also. I do not like to freeze or use frozen chicken leftovers because the texture is off, particularly for this recipe.

4 cups  or 1 Qt. chicken stock- a flavorful herbed kind tastes great

1/8 cup lemon juice- not from concentrate

1 tsp salt

butter

carrots 

onion 

celery or chard ribs chopped

leaves of chard (ribs removed) finely chopped

cream

whole milk

This recipe is now one of many delicious recipes in my Weight Free Wellness Cookbook. Download your free copy!

Get This Recipe Here... and Much More!

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How to Know if He or She is "The One"

In this New Year of Love, Relationships and Body-typing, I'm going to start with sharing how my hubby and I met and how I knew he was "the one".

My husband Jon and I met in early 2000. As of today, we've been married for 14 fun and love-filled years! So, if you've already done the math, you know that we got married pretty quickly. We just knew . . .

I met him at his martial arts school. He was the owner and principal teacher- which of course made him even more attractive, and he is/was already super charming and handsome!

I was only 18 but I already knew my "type". You know when you crave a specific kind of food, say Thai food and more specifically, pad thai chicken? Nothing else will do; not Chinese, not Indian food, because you want the specific combination of ingredients in the pad thai dish from your favorite Thai restaurant. Convert the idea of flavors into a certain energy and magnetic attraction that you're desiring- and that's how clear I was on the guy I was meant to be with.

Now, please don't misinterpret what I'm saying. I do not mean that I had the list of ingredients that goes into making this amazing pad thai dish. My "list" was as simple as: rice, noodles, chicken and green onion. There's no need for a list, you can't replicate or trick yourself that it is or is not "the dish"; once it's in front of you; you smell it, you experience it, and you know - That's it!

So, when I first met Jon, I have to admit, yes I was very attracted- but I was clearly not the only one who felt this way about him. 

I was a bit unsure about myself and my potential of being with him. I also didn't really know if I really liked him beyond his looks and apparent enthusiasm for life and success. I originally showed up there to train and to develop myself; so that's what I focused on.

So, I trained at his school, I was me (did not put on any airs - which meant I was grounded in my Air-Element - topic of my book You-niversal Self-care) I had fun and observed how he was as a person.

Later I found out that my behavior was attractive to his Fiery (see Body-typing book) side. He was accustomed to girls chasing after him; but this ambitious man needed to do more of the chasing. He liked that I took the time to observe him and not rush into things. He admired my work-ethic at his school and could see that I had interests outside of finding a man and was an eager student like him.

We met in January, started dating in June (when I became his Spanish teacher and we were therefor we were mutually teacher-student, offsetting the no-dating-students policy) and got married in November. Quick yes. Do you just know when you know, yes! Has it been absolutely right, yes!

Still looking for "the one"? Get clear, but simple about what you want; it will be much easier to identify when he or she comes across your path. AND, Going back to the food analogy, if you know you like Thai food, you don't go to a Sushi bar! Go where you are more likely to find what you want!

More Relationship and Body-typing to come so make sure to like, follow or subscribe!

Love, Relationships and Body-typing in 2015

The most common New Year's Resolution is likely centered around health and wellness, my specialty, but I'm going to branch into some territory that I have not shared so much about . . . LOVE RELATIONSHIPS and BODY-TYPING!

Build Relationships You'd Hang Out on a Limb For 

Love has inspired people through the ages to do amazing things- and also not so glamorous but essential things; like take care of themselves because they feel better about themselves and want to live a long and healthy life with their loved-one.

So, I thought, why not teach about Body-typing and Love since they can both really promote health and well-being?

Relationships can be challenging; but unless you live deep in the woods and are totally self-sustaining . . . oh, and alone . . . you have to have relationships with people to one degree or another- from interacting with the clerk at the store to our closest loved ones.

So, let's explore different Types (the topic of my book, You-niversal Self-care) of people, their behavior patterns, when and how to stand up to them and when to perhaps back away. We're going to cover a lot here from the basics to intimate relationships, so get ready!


Stayed tuned for . . .
How I knew he was "the one"
The magical embrace - when chemistry is right
An ancient explanation to why opposites attract
The Pros and the Cons of each Body-type in Love
How to call on your elements to be an effectively strong woman - Giving a good chase
+++

And of course . . . for more in person, and to get your questions answered . . . schedule a consultation or event!

What is Cabin Fever?

I don't know if there is a scientific explanation, but through my metaphoric glasses I can really see what is happening!

Cabin Fever- when you've grown so restless and anxious from being cooped up inside. No amount of walking the malls or in-door exercise class will do to satiate he need to free one's energy.

It's not simply the walls of the house that contain you; but the looming cold, wind and dampness that have long been threatening you. Your ears grow deaf to their howls and skin numb to their sting. They can no longer keep the energy that is bound inside of you from bursting forth. It must be freed; at any cost!

With the long-held dominance of the Earthy-season from late winter to spring, the Earth Element gestates the forces of it's opposite Elements: Fire and Air. The seeds that settled and lay dormant in the Arid fall season have now been restored and revived in their long hibernation and the Fires of life are bound and determined to leap forth again. What were the most delicate of seeds in the autumn are bold and daring beings as they break through the most uncomfortable barriers and bear formidable environments; seeking balance once again.

Foods for February

Mid-Janurary into February, March and even April are an Earthy time of the year here in the upper mid-west and other regions that share in similar weather.

It's been cold for quite some time now and the only sure change that is coming soon is, more snow.

Recipe ideas for winter  Tara Baklund  TarasBook.com

Coolness, moisture and stillness are dominant Earth characteristics. This means that it's time for all Body-types, but especially those with Earth-dominance to lean towards Earth-balancing foods.

Lately I've really been feeling this shift in my body, so I will share a few ideas of food that I will be preparing in the next few days to expand on this concept.

Chili salad. The herbs and spices: cayenne, garlic, onion (red and yellow this time) help to stimulate heat and break up moisture (mucous). I make a salad with organic blue corn tortilla chips, lettuce, cilantro, sprouts, salsa and avocado. Very little or no dairy.

I will also be making a few zesty salads including one with citrus and pears and raw onion which my hubby will love but I will still probably leave off of mine. (See my post on choosing onions for the best dishes and by Body-type.)

I am inspired to make a diary-free, light creamy dill dressing with pungent radishes and greens.

More recipes will be posted soon!

You can learn more about your Body-type and the foods, exercises and general lifestyle choices you can easily use to feel more healthy and balanced in my book You-niversal Self-care. Simple, full of tools including recipes and stories!

Choosing Which Onion to Use - by Body-type

Understanding Body-typing in regards to cooking is like a beginning painter learning the strokes of the brush.

The mastery can come later with practice; in the meantime when we see another artist's painting or imagine our own next creating, we can begin to see how to put it together with the new tools we have gained.

A great recipe is artful on many levels, but what makes it truly superb is when it genuinely suits the person or people for whom it is meant.

Let's explore this with just one ingredient, the onion. There are many, many types of onion; from the long, slender chive to the stout, disk-shaped cipollini. I will use four common varieties which will give a good understanding; yellow, red/purple, white and green onion.

Just a note- these are my interpretations of the onion from a Body-typing perspective.

Which onion do I use for cooking?   Tara Baklund   TarasBook.com

Let's begin with the strongest of the bunch, the yellow onion. They have a strong, pungent flavor and will make all but the most experienced of chefs tear up. These are best suited for, and most enjoyed by those with Earth-type characteristics. The strong flavor has an Arid nature which stimulates the slow, steadiness of the Earth element. This is why is works well in very dense and Earthy foods like meat and creamy dishes. I find yellow onions add more zest to my chicken liver pate. Some say that this is a very multipurpose onion, although if you ask an Air-type they will likely find them rather strong. More on Air-types in a moment.

Which Body-type 'are you'? (and go ahead, ask me why I use '')

The red or purple is one of my favorites. It adds such beautiful color and a nice balance of flavor. It's great in salads as well as cooked, especially when you want some added color. The flavor is generally nicely balanced for all Body-types. As a general rule though, if you are having a person as a guest for dinner who is strong in the Air Element, opt for cooked onions only, or serve raw onions on the side.

White onions are my favorite. I find they are the sweetest of the non-sweet types when caramelized. I like to use them in vegetable dominant dishes as they do not compete with the other veggies for flavor. I like that they do not leave a strong after-taste like yellow onions do.

Green onions are the safest for all Body-types. They are mild in flavor but can still leave to strong of an aftertaste for Air-types.

Earthy people usually enjoy onions of all types and forms as the Arid nature of the onion balances the Earth Element. Fire-types general enjoy them as well unless they are experiencing an overheating of their digestive system. Watery people may go either way. Air-types are generally the most picky, and if they eat them at all prefer them to be cooked. If you are unsure whether to serve them raw to a group, choose the mild green onion or thinly sliced red onions.


Dia-blog - I find that the onion is one of those ingredients that specific Body-types really love or hate. Even Earth-type children love the strong flavor of the allium species and Air-dominant adults pick out onions from a dish as one would expect from a child. I bet you even have such a story to share!