Hygge-Inspired Holiday Wellness

Cozy ambiance with decorated Christmas tree in front of a wood fireplace.

Hygge-Inspired Holiday Wellness

Hygge is a Danish concept that encompasses coziness, comfort, and well-being. You can explore how to incorporate hygge principles into the holiday season for a more mindful and relaxing December.

Here are a few ideas to help you set the holiday stage.

  1. Embracing Cozy Rituals: Create cozy holiday rituals like hot cocoa by the fire, reading by candlelight, or warm blankets for a sense of comfort and relaxation.
    • In our home we have a few holiday favorite movies where we make popcorn, light a fire and cozy up together with blankets.
    • Some of our favourites: The holiday, Love Actually, Hallmark Cheese (okay, that is for me mostly), The Noel Diary.
  1. Mindful Gift-Giving: Choose thoughtful, meaningful gifts that focus on experiences, quality, and personal connections rather than consumerism.
    • This year we chose to take the kids our for a special night rather than a gift. We are still doing stockings, but our emotional cups are all filled with more quality connection. So we are giving the gift of time and connection.
  2. Stress Reduction Techniques: Remember stress management during the holiday season. You can choose practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga.
    • Some of my Favorite Breath Techniques are the following to create an instant shift:
  1. Healthy Holiday Recipes: Share recipes for nourishing, comforting, and wholesome holiday dishes that prioritize both taste and well-being.
  2. Digital Detox: Disconnect from screens and social media to foster genuine connections with loved ones during the holidays.
    • In or house we have sacred times that are tech free: Mealtimes are tech-free, before bed is tech free (other than using your device for a meditation 😊)
  3. Gratitude and Reflection: Reflect on the year, express gratitude, and set positive intentions for the upcoming one.
    • Gratitude Practice: For 30 days write down 3 things you are feeling appreciation for, big or small, you will be amazed at the energy shift you feel in your body.
  4. Sustainable Celebrations: Have an eco-friendly holiday season, including reducing waste, recycling, and supporting sustainable brands.

We could all use a little extra “Hygge” this holiday season. Just remember how powerful you are when you set a clear intention you create with so much ease. Set and intention for “Hygge” and you will feel the magic around you.

From our Team at the Positive Change we wish you a:

Happy, Healthy and Hygge Holiday Season.

With Love,

Julie, Susan and Team.

Are you Ready to Let Go?

Are you Ready to Let Go?

 

The willingness to let go this fall is a beautiful reminder of the natural rhythms that happen within the change of season. Have you noticed that fall is a time of letting go? We see the trees literally letting go of their leaves, and when we do this from an emotional healing place, it gives us space to let in the new.

Before it gives us space to let in the new, it also gives us clarity; clarity of what we want. Clarity of what our new program can be. Clarity on more dreams, bigger dreams, and aspirations.

When we are bogged down with limiting beliefs, whether that’s insecurities, feelings of not being good enough, it would do us good to let go of the things that don’t serve us. Are you repeating a program from the time you were a child that has held you in darkness and not allowed you to shine your light?

What are you willing to and permitting to release and let go to create clarity; to empty your tank? Let’s look right now at all the things that you can let go of.

  1. Old Habits: October can be a great time to reflect on unhealthy or unproductive habits and consider letting go of them to make room for personal growth.
  2. Grudges and Resentments: Just as trees shed their leaves to start anew, individuals can release grudges and resentments that may be holding them back from moving forward in their relationships and personal well-being.
  3. Stress and Anxiety: Autumn can be a time to embrace tranquility and reduce stress. Letting go of excessive worry or anxiety can help create mental space for a sense of calm.
  4. Material Possessions: As you witness nature simplifying itself, you might consider decluttering your own life by letting go of material possessions you no longer need.
  5. Negative Self-Talk: Shedding self-doubt and negative self-talk can be a powerful way to promote mental and emotional growth.
  6. Expectations: Release unrealistic expectations you may have placed on yourself or others, allowing for more authentic and less stressful relationships and experiences.
  7. Regrets: Just as the falling leaves can symbolize the shedding of regrets, it’s a good time to reflect on past mistakes, learn from them, and let go of any lingering regrets that may be hindering personal growth.
  8. Past Attachments: Whether it’s relationships, memories, or experiences that no longer serve you, October can be a time to release attachments to the past and embrace the present moment.
  9. Fears: Face your fears and consider letting go of irrational or limiting fears that may be holding you back from pursuing your goals and dreams.
  10. Expectations of Perfection: Let go of the need to be perfect in every aspect of your life, and instead, embrace imperfection as a natural part of the human experience.

When we link the idea of letting go with hypnosis, we achieve an emotional detox. The healing power is really in just releasing and letting go so that the magic of transformation can happen.

Tips on how we let go when we notice the leaves falling from the trees.

  1. Become consciously aware of the thoughts in your mind that are creating disharmony, meaning emotional discomfort. You can do this by questioning your emotions and asking, “What is my emotion connected to?” “What thoughts or programs am I telling myself?” Once we can pinpoint the thought then we can simply do a tapping exercise to let that go.
  2. Do a brain dump. Write in your journal all the negative things you’re ready to let go of. Just do a brain dump on a journal very cathartically to let it out. You can burn that page, ceremoniously if you like, the key is to just let go of what no longer serves while sitting in presence.

The idea of letting go during October when the trees shed their leaves can be a metaphorical reflection on personal growth, change, and renewal.

By Julie Cass

The Positive Change Group

 

Want to create your magic?

Want to create your magic?

Turn up the volume on your SELF-WORTH.

I have learned in my own life and what I have witnessed with my clients over the years is that real magic begins to happen when we can really feel, understand, and believe in our own WORTH.

So much of our disharmony or fear, anger, frustration reflects how we feel about ourselves. We may feel frustrated because something we wanted so badly has not happened. We may feel hurt because we were rejected by a client or maybe a love interest. We feel disappointed when something does not work out the way we anticipated.  This all then feeds into a deeper well of not feeling worthy enough.

The issue is, most of us do not understand or connect the dots with this having anything to do with our feelings of lack of self-worth.  Many times, we just feel it is bad luck or worse we criticize ourselves by saying things like; “I’m never going to find a love, I am never going to get this promotion.” etc.

Let’s break this cycle now and create some magic.

I have seen so much magic happen, almost instantly, with myself and my clients when we re-program our minds to feel our unlimited worth.

When we act from a place of elevated worth, we feel worthy to be happy, we feel worthy to relax, we feel worthy to fulfill our desires, we feel worthy to love what we do for a living. It is unlimited to what we can attract that feels so amazing when we act from a place of self-worth.

The real magic in life is knowing your own worth without having to rely on the outside world to give you this validation. It is knowing you are worthy because you are here, because you breathe. It is not having to accomplish another goal to feel it, to achieve a better grade to feel it, to get recognition to feel it. These outside validations feel great, but they are fleeting. The feeling does not last because we become addicted to them and need more of them to keep feeling worthy.  It is not true inner peace; it is only temporary.

Creating real inner peace is knowing you are worthy no matter what.

To know that you are enough right now and that you don’t need to prove anything to anyone to be worthy.

When we understand this and feel this, the best thing happens; all the things you want start to happen in flow.  They do not need to feel like a struggle. It just happens. And yes, it feels good when it happens, but it certainly does not define your worth. Because you already know you are worthy regardless of what is happening around you.

That is living in magic. That is what is possible for you.

To work on reprograming the mind, you can do this through hypnosis and getting our body into a relaxed state so we can begin a new dominant thought around self-worth and love. A new belief and knowing of our worth. Becoming aware and focusing on our core being is vital in detecting our worth. One of the best ways to becoming aware of who we really are is to temporarily let go of the numerous titles we identify with, i.e. a Mother, a Sister, our career,  etc. What is left?

To help you do this I have created a beautiful meditation on Self-Worth.

My suggestion is to listen to this before bed every night and allow your subconscious mind to get a new program and unlock the well and depths of your WORTH.

You got this.

Enjoy the magic.

Julie

The Positive Change Group

A Mental Detox to Create Your Best Summer

A Mental Detox

To Create Your Best Summer Yet

This is a great time of year to do a mental detox and prepare for your best summer ever. There are so many things around us that can trigger a warm feeling inside of gratitude and appreciation. Today while driving, I noticed how green the trees are as they are in full bloom. It gave me a feeling of gratitude that we have the whole summer ahead of us and the warmer weather is here.  It also reminded me that this life is meant to be lived, it is meant to smile more, to laugh more and find the things that bring us joy. It is meant to let go of our worries as they are a waste of time and elevate our mindset so we can really start living now.

Not tomorrow but now.

My own life really changed when I became more disciplined about my mind and the thoughts I was telling myself. As much as I would feel joy when I would accomplish something, it was only temporary joy. I would quickly be consumed with the next thing on my To Do list. The real bliss happened when, no matter what was going on in my own life, I became more decerning of steering my internal program to a positive one. I love working with my clients on how to elevate their mindset because it is clear how quickly we see changes in one’s moods, stress, and overall happiness.

The following are a few quick tips to help you elevate your mindset today and start to experience a more positive and fulfilling life.

Start your day with “I GET TO”

When you first open your eyes in the morning begin to train your brain into focusing on the positive by saying: “I get to…”  A simple change form I have to, to I get to will create a huge shift in how you feel and how you start your day.

For example upon first opening your eyes say to yourself:

“I get to wake up and have a glass of water, I get to move my body, I get to take a warm shower, I get to choose what to wear today etc…”

This list can go on and on but what you are doing is so powerful because instead of saying I have to which feels like obligation, you are shifting to focus on appreciation of all the privileges you have.

Activate the Feel-Good Hormone

Our bodies are meant to move but not just for physical health but for mental health as well. Did you know moving your body naturally releases the bodies ‘feel good’ hormone; Serotonin? My morning movement is always motivated by how it will make me feel. I always find my capacity is increased for dealing with curve balls that the day might bring, when I have moved my body first.

Engage in regular physical activities that you enjoy, such as swimming, hiking, cycling, or playing sports. It doesn’t matter what you do as long as you move your body and the summer is a great time to get outside and do this.  Remember, regular exercise releases endorphins, which can boost your mood and energy levels.

Every morning tell yourself: “I choose to feel good, so I choose to move my body today.”

A Healthy Eating Mindset

When we feel well, we eat well, when we eat well we feel well. It is a great reciprocal relationship but the opposite can be true. When we feel emotionally drained or stressed many of us will opt for “comfort food” to help us cope.

There are many other alternatives that we can use to help deal with stress such as breathing, meditation, walks in nature, focusing on what is in our control etc. When it comes to food, we need to start changing our relationship with food so we don’t use it to self-medicate.

The first thing to do is remember we eat for energy. When you have a busy work week choose foods that will give you the most brain power and energy. This will be mostly fruits and vegetables, lean proteins and a small amount of whole grains. The best rule is to rule out anything that comes in a package because it tends to be more processed. The more food is in a natural state, the more energy giving the food is.

A healthy food mindset will be one that tells your body: “Today I am eating whole foods that give me energy, today I am going to enjoy healthy foods that feels good to my body and mind.”

I love food and I love indulging from time to time in those comfort foods, but it is a very different mindset when we do this mindfully and intentionally at certain times like the weekend and not every day as a habit or crutch to try and feel better. And remember when you do indulge, a healthy mindset does it guilt free and with a lot of joy!

Some key tips for healthy eating

  • Stay hydrated and drink lots of water (Water before coffee in the am)
  • Meal planning – planning your meals midweek will take all the pressure off those last minute crunches where we tend to opt for easy and convenient and not healthy choices.
  • Meal prep will help you stay healthy. Prewash your fruits and veggies and keep them in glass containers in the fridge.
  • Summer salads are a great way to get your veggies in. I do a chunky ’empty the fridge’ salad where I load up on my raw veggies, it adds crunch and gives variety.
  • Daily fasting – our digestive systems need a break. Try to fast at least 12-14 hrs a day. For more information on the health benefits of fasting click here.
  • Remember your Mindset: “I get to eat healthy foods today.”

Socialize with Like Minds

Spend more time with people who make you feel good. A positive mind will attract a positive mind. Like attracts like so schedule and make time for those people in your life and tell them how much you appreciate them. Expressing gratitude for others goes a long way and feels amazing.

I Prioritize ME

We are the captains of our ship, the navigators of our life, and ultimately 100% responsible for our happiness and our misery.  The great news is that happiness is in your power when you prioritize your happiness and your Self.

Setting aside time every day for yourself to connect inwards and to relax is essential food for the mind. This is our brain’s chance to recharge and reconnect with self.

A daily practice of meditation, nature walks, journaling or breath work is a great way to do this.

Remember it all starts with the mind. If you tell yourself that you are a priority, the body will follow. Action around self becomes easier once the mind decides.

Make a sticky note right now and put it somewhere that is visible. “I AM A PRIORITY”.

Keep repeating this until the mind understands and says; yes you are. Now go do something for yourself that feels good!

Remember a positive mind creates a positive life. It all starts with our mind and what we are telling ourselves.

By following these tips, you can keep feeling great as summer approaches and make the most of this vibrant and joyful season. Embrace the warmth, sunshine, and endless possibilities that summer brings!

by Julie Cass of The Positive Change Group

To learn more about Julie’s exclusive coaching to help you master the challenges in your life please book your call HERE.

Nature’s Remedy for Mental Wellness

Nature’s Remedy for Mental Wellness

Spending time outdoors and engaging with nature during the Spring season offers numerous physical and mental health benefits that can help boost mood and relieve stress.

As the days become longer, warmer, and filled with blossoming plants and wildlife, there are several reasons why immersing yourself in nature can be especially beneficial.

1.    Sunlight exposure: After a long winter, increased sunlight exposure in the spring can help regulate our circadian rhythms, improve sleep quality, and boost mood. Sunlight also helps our bodies produce vitamin D, which supports overall health and well-being.

2.    Physical activity: Outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, biking, or gardening encourage physical movement, which can improve mood, reduce stress, and support overall health. Exercise releases endorphins, which are natural mood elevators and stress reducers.

3.    Fresh air: Breathing fresh air can help to clear the mind and promote relaxation. Improved air quality outdoors compared to indoor environments can also have a positive impact on respiratory health.

4.    Connection with nature: Being in nature allows us to connect with the natural world and appreciate its beauty. This connection can promote feelings of awe and wonder, which are linked to increased well-being and reduced stress.

5.    Mindfulness and grounding: Engaging with nature encourages mindfulness, as we tend to focus on the present moment and our surroundings. This mindful attention can help reduce stress, anxiety, and negative thought patterns. Earthing (the practice of walking barefoot) has it’s many benefits as you can see here.

6.    Improved mental health: Studies have shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce symptoms of depression, anxiety, and other mental health issues. The calming and restorative effects of nature can support mental well-being and resilience. One such study was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. If fact, it shows the restorative effects of nature (forests, flowers, etc.) lead to physiological relaxation and immune function recovery.

7.    Social interaction: Outdoor activities often involve social interaction with friends, family, or even strangers. Connecting with others can improve mood, provide a sense of belonging, and help reduce stress.

8.    Cognitive benefits: Spending time outdoors can improve concentration, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Natural environments can help clear the mind and promote mental clarity, which can be especially helpful during the busy spring season.

To maximize these benefits, try to incorporate regular outdoor activities into your routine, whether it’s taking a daily walk, participating in outdoor sports, or simply sitting outside to enjoy a book or a meal. Embracing the rejuvenating power of nature can help make the most of the spring season and support overall well-being.

Spring – A Great Time to RESET

Spring – A Great Time to RESET!

Nature is magical and spring is one of the best times of the year to notice the amazing transformation and flow that happens before our eyes.

After the long winter months of introspection and being dormant, nature starts to bloom and come to life. It’s an opportunity to embrace new beginnings and set powerful new intentions around your own blossoming.

Ready to Bloom like spring?

The following are great ways to let go of the old and bring in some new. Allow yourself to follow the rhythm of nature and blossom.

Cleansing Old Thought Patterns

Spring is a great time to shed some thoughts that no longer feel good.

Make a list of the thoughts that no longer serve you. You will know what these thoughts are because they don’t make you feel good.

Exercise: Take out a pen and write down a limiting thought. Now write down the exact opposite as your unlimiting thought – the thought that makes you feel good instead.

Repeat the new thought until it becomes more familiar than the old thought.  You will feel the energetic shift allowing you to bloom.

Powerful Intentions for Spring and Summer

Setting intentions is one of the most powerful things we can do because we become proactive rather than reactive, to life.  By setting powerful and clear intentions we take charge of our life and how we want to feel and what we want to attract.  The change of seasons is a great time to set new intentions around, fun, laughter, connections, health etc.  Setting intentions is a great way to create new patterns in life and lift your energy.

The Power of Breath Work to Feel an Instant Shift.

In times of stress we need a quick shift – your breath is your best friend!

The cleansing breath below is one of my favourites to create a quick energetic shift and give yourself instant relief.

Cleansing Breath Exercise:

Inhale love, open your arms, open your heart centre.

Exhale stress, bring your arms in and give yourself a big loving hug.

Repeat.

 

Nature’s Remedies

Nature has a magical way of grounding us as our electromagnetic frequency resonates with nature. We can feel wonderful healing shifts by spending time in nature.

Read more about Nature’s Remedy for Mental Wellness.

Spring Cleaning for Wellness

Decluttering and organizing our living spaces, can have positive effects on our mental and emotional well-being. Some of the benefits of spring cleaning include:

  1. Reducing stress: Clutter and disorganization in our living spaces can contribute to feelings of stress and overwhelm. By decluttering and organizing our space, we can create a more peaceful and calming environment, which can help reduce stress levels.
  2. Improving focus and productivity: A clean and organized space can help improve our focus and productivity by reducing distractions and allowing us to better concentrate on our tasks.
  3. Boosting mood: A clutter-free and organized space can also help improve our mood and overall well-being. Studies have shown that a clean and organized environment can lead to increased feelings of happiness and satisfaction.
  4. Creating a sense of accomplishment: Completing a spring cleaning project, such as cleaning out a closet or organizing a room, can give us a sense of accomplishment and boost our self-esteem.

Overall, spring cleaning can help improve our mental and emotional well-being by reducing stress, improving focus and productivity, boosting mood, and creating a sense of accomplishment.

Megan Authors – home organizer has great tips for Clutter Clearing this Spring.

Refresh Your Pantry – Spring Menu Planning

Our bodies crave different foods as it gets warmer. One possible reason for this is that during the winter months, our bodies tend to crave warmer, heavier foods to help keep us warm and provide energy. As the weather gets warmer in the spring, our bodies may start to crave lighter, fresher foods that are more hydrating and refreshing.

Start to work with more fresh herbs and greens as they begin to come into season, such as strawberries, asparagus, and spinach. Our bodies may naturally crave these foods as they become more readily available and provide the nutrients that our bodies need after a winter of heavier eating.

Change Colours

Add some pops of colour to the house!

Easy colour changes that make a big impact can be: Pillows, Throws, Towels, and even your attire.

Spring Reset Meditation

As we are coming out of our ‘hibernation’, inner reflection and quiet time are always important to bloom. Try my morning reset meditation HERE.

Mental Health Support

Finally, consider seeking out support from a mental health expert or a life coach. As a professional, I can offer guidance and support as you navigate your spring reset, and can help you develop a personalized plan for achieving your goals. Book your free consultation with me HERE.

In conclusion, a spring reset can be a powerful tool for personal growth and transformation. As you embrace the new beginnings of spring, remember that the greatest transformation starts from within. The changing of the seasons offers us an opportunity to reflect on our lives, let go of what no longer serves us, and embrace new beginnings.

By Julie Cass; founder of The Positive Change Group

Creating a Winter Wellness Plan

warming feet by the fireplace

How to Embrace Winter

As we know, many Canadian’s get into a slump around this time of year, as the days get shorter and the temperature gets colder.

Mindset is everything and I have some simple things you can do to help embrace the months ahead.

Creating a Winter Wellness Plan

The winter months can be a time to thrive instead of just plowing through the days, and wishing the time away. It can be a time to create some wonderful memories a time for laughter, a time to thrive with a little sprinkle of warm and cozy.

Having a winter wellness plan allows you to mentally set an intention and a clear path on how to cultivate joy for the season.

Simply set a specific intention on how you are going to embrace the winter. Our minds are so powerful and dictate so much of how we feel, so when we set a clear intention we are priming our mind for happiness and peace no matter how cold it gets outside.

Hear are some intentions I have on my plan:

  1. Really appreciating my warm coat, scarf, mitts and walking my dog every night.
  2. Dusting off my skates and looking for opportunities to embrace the kid in me.
  3. Having cozy candlelit dinners with the family.
  4. Putting something on the calendar to look forward to like a date night with your partner or friend.
  5. Using my diffuser daily  to fill my house and office with warm cozy, uplifting aromas.

Winter Wellness Plan Image

What’s on your winter wellness plan?

Additional Tips to Keep Your Mind Elevated this Winter

Simple pleasures at home can make a difference in shifting your mood and lifting the energy in your home:

  • Light a candle or turn the fireplace on to set a cozy ambiance.
  • Have a nice collection of teas for soothing comfort after a meal. add ref to Yogi tea and makes house smell great.
  • Take a warm bubble bath.
  • Diffuse essential oils like cinnamon, cloves and orange for an uplifting aroma.
  • Cuddle on the coach with your favourite blanket, a good book or uplifting movie.

Anything that creates warmth and comfort in the home also creates it in the mind; don’t you agree?

Winter is an excellent time to take better care of yourself, and we’re here for you. By planning ahead, you can avoid most of the things that lead to stress during this time of year. Take a few minutes to work through a wellness plan so you can stay happy and healthy throughout winter.

More Winter Wellness Tips

  • Get Enough Sleep

Sleep is one of the best ways to reduce stress and improve your mood. If you have trouble falling asleep, try going to bed earlier, or doing something relaxing like reading before bedtime.

  • Plan for Meals and Snacks

You should always have healthy snacks on hand to help you avoid overeating at meals. Try putting together a few different types of snacks to keep things interesting.

  • Practice Breathing Exercises

Inhaling deeply can help you relax and reduce stress levels throughout your body.

  • Connect more with people that feel good to be around.

Connection is important, the right connection will lift your spirits.

  • Get Moving

You should aim to get at least 30 minutes of physical activity every day. It’s best to do this in several short bursts throughout the day rather than one long session. You don’t need to go for a run or lift weights to lower stress and improve your mood. Try going for a walk after dinner, or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Find a walking buddy or workout buddy that can help keep you accountable.

  • Last and certainly not least; remember to take time for yourself! Winter is a great time for inner reflection. Daily meditations or journaling can be just what your soul needs for that warm peaceful, self-loving feeling.

 

with Love,

Julie

 

Yogi Tea

Employee Wellness

Yogi Tea Recipe

Here’s a cozy hot tea that makes the whole house smell fabulous.

The simple pleasures is where it’s at in life. With the winter months and the colder weather here, simple pleasures like a spicy warm homemade cup of delightful tea can help shift our energy and feel a sense of gratitude.

This recipe brings me so much joy, not only in making it but also sharing it with friends. I often have a pot of this simmering on the stove during the colder months.

It’s the perfect accompaniment on the sofa, by the fire, or under a warm cozy blanket. The delightful taste of the combined spices is beautiful. It is definitely one for the taste buds and it warms the body and soul with every nurturing sip of this cup of love.

Make it for friends and the whole family to enjoy.

Hope you love this as much as we do!

You can substitute any milk alternative of your choice. i.e. Oat Milk, Almond Milk, etc.

*Here is the original Yogi Bhajan recipe:

Measurements can vary according to your taste. Be careful not to put in too many cloves or cinnamon sticks.

To 3 litres of boiling water add:

  • 20 whole cloves, see them dance!
  • 20 whole green cardamom pods (you can open them up)
  • 20 whole black peppercorns
  • 5 sticks of cinnamon

Continue boiling for 15 – 20 minutes, then add:

  • 1/4 teaspoon of any black tea. After one or two minutes add:
  • 1/2 cup cold milk per cup of remaining liquid

When it returns to the boiling point, remove immediately from heat. (Watch closely so it doesn’t boil over.) Strain and serve with honey to taste, if desired.

The black pepper is a blood purifier, the cardamom is for the colon, the cloves for the nervous system, and the cinnamon for the bones. The milk aids in the easy assimilation of the spices and avoids irritation to the colon. The black tea acts as an alloy for all the ingredients, achieving a new chemical structure which makes the tea a healthy as well as delicious drink.

Slices of fresh ginger root may also be included, especially when you are suffering from a cold, recovering from the flu, or you just want extra energy.

*This recipe is from the Book; Kundalini Yoga: The Flow of Eternal Power. It was printed with permission from Copyright 1969 Yogi Bhajan.

with Love,

Julie

 

Yummy Homemade Granola

Yummy Homemade Granola

Get cozy with this delicious homemade granola that will make your whole house smell so inviting.

Our entire family loves this granola and whenever we serve it to our guests I get asked for the recipe. It is indeed a keeper for the recipe books.

It’s crunchy and delicious, and every bite leaves you with so much tastebud pleasure. Store-bought granola can be loaded with sugar, so this homemade version is a healthy and delicious option that is easy to make.

Your home will smell like a bakery and feel so warm and inviting. I love making this before the kids get home as they always comment on the amazing smell.  We have been making this recipe for years and have adapted it over time.  Feel free to make any substitutions. You can even eliminate the double bake if you like your granola texture chewier.

 

Ingredients:

1 cup of quick oats

½ cup of sesame seeds

½ cup sunflower seeds

½ cup pistachios

½ cup sliced almonds (or whole and just crush them a bit)

½ cup unsalted cashews (optional)

½ cup of pumpkin seeds

½ cup unsweetened coconut

¼ cup of hemp hearts (optional but great for added protein)

¼ – ½ cup of honey or maple syrup

1 tbsp. of melted butter

¼ cup of melted coconut oil

¼ cup dried cherries, blueberries, or cranberries (optional)

 

Steps:

Toast seeds, nuts, and oatmeal on a cookie sheet in the oven, set at 350 degrees for about 10 -15 minutes, until golden brown.

Meanwhile melt coconut oil, butter, and honey or maple syrup in a pan.

Mix with toasted nuts and oatmeal when ready.

Add dried fruit, *coconut, and hemp hearts.

Put back into the oven for 5 minutes to create chunky granola.

If you are skipping the double bake, add the coconut for the last 5 minutes to get a nice golden brown color.

Store in an airtight container for a week but I doubt it won’t last that long.😊

This recipe is great for a quick breakfast or afternoon pick-me-up. Wonderful when served with thick Greek yoghurt and berries.

When I am hosting a brunch, I serve this in small mason jars and make individual granola parfaits.

Granola Parfait

Enjoy with love.

Quick and Healthy Banana Oat Muffins (gf)

Muffin Recipte

I whipped up a batch of these one afternoon with a few minutes to spare and a couple of ripe bananas that needed a use and the whole family loved them.

I also had a bag of almond meal that needed some of my love as I hadn’t used it in a while. I am always a little skeptical of using almond flour as the texture can be less appealing for some, especially my kids. However, these muffins turned out to be light and airy considering they have no gluten.

This delicious and nutritious muffing recipe that is packed with protein, makes for guilt free enjoyment which is the way it is supposed to be.

This is my kind of baking because it is super easy, super healthy and super yummy!

I love these for a quick light morning breakfast or to enjoy at the office with my afternoon tea!

I hope you love them too.

Enjoy

Julie Cass

 

Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line your muffin tray with paper muffin cups.

You will need:

Dry Ingredients:

1 1/2 cup almond meal

3/4 cup oats

1/4 cup hemp hearts

Handful of chopped pecans

1/2 tsp salt

1 tsp baking soda

Wet Ingredients:

2 ripe bananas

2 eggs

1/4 cup honey

1 tsp vanilla

Options:

Handful dark chocolate chips

Directions:

Mix wet ingredients. Mix dry ingredients.

Incorporate the wet and dry mixed ingredients and add chocolate chips. Scoop the batter into muffin trays and bake for 15 to 20 minutes or until golden brown.

Your home will be filled with the warm cozy smell of fresh baked muffins. There is nothing like the smell of homemade baking and I also love that I know exactly what I put in, so I don’t worry about sugar or artificial ingredients.  Made with great, simple ingredients and a whole lot of love.

This recipe can be easily adapted to suit your likes, if you don’t like pecans substitute for any other nut or omit.  I like the crunch and texture the pecans add to this recipe.  Walnuts would also be fabulous.