3 tips for a NEW, “New Year’s Resolution”

How many years in a row have you made the same new year’s resolution? If you’re making the same resolution because you haven’t gotten what you were shooting for, I have a challenge for you.  It can’t hurt to have an additional new year’s intention.

Do you and your lover speak the same food language?  Can you whip up a delicious meal in the kitchen together?  Do you generally choose the same item on a menu at a restaurant?  Do you come home from the grocery store with all of the divine, colorful produce that your lover wanted (without them even having to ask for it)?  Speaking the same food language means that you can choose and chew together harmoniously.…

Spicy Secret Series #2: Turmeric

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Spicy Secret Series #2: Turmeric |  by: July Westhale

Turmeric is the spice that keeps it flowin’…and what, exactly, does it keep flowing?  Do, read on 😉

This bright orange spice is a member of the ginger family, and has been used for over 4,000 years to increase health and treat ailments.  In Southeastern parts of Asia, it’s used to treat everything from gas to neurological degeneration.

Recently, turmeric has become popularized in the United States for its curative powers, which have been shown to counteract the damaging effects of the American diet. Used as a digestive aid for breaking down beans, proteins, fats, and grains, this miracle spice has been introduced into Western pharmacies to help maintain intestinal flora (which sugars, grains, bad fats, and antibiotics often destroy), as well as improving the elimination of toxins and purifying blood.…

Good eating: Are you jonesing for a hot dog?

Even though I totally love magazines, I currently do not receive any subscriptions.  What’s perfect is the opportunity I have to read my favorite magazines every time I travel.  They are conveniently tucked right in the seat back pocket in front of me. I truly love inflight magazines.  They usually have unique articles about global cuisine, and exotic destinations-two things I can’t get enough of.

On our way to Bali this past summer, the words, “sex” and “drugs” caught my attention on the bottom right corner of United’s Hemispheres magazine.  I don’t see these two words often while browsing these publications, so I had to read on (wouldn’t you)?

After I read the very short two paragraph blurb, I nudged my husband Joe and gave him an enthusiastic look while I pointed to the article.…

Love notes: Selfies with salads

When you’re feeling amazing inside and out, how does that affect your relationship?  Conversely, how does a groggy, bloated, tired day affect your relationship?  One thing that is incredibly important in my relationship is feeling really great when we’re together.  You too, right?  It’s so much easier to have an outstanding relationship-with anyone-when you feel so damn good that nothing can get you down.

What makes me feel that good? Sunshine and tasty food are pretty high ranking on my list. This week I’m in beautiful Hawaii, and my love, Joe is back home in California.

Even when we’re apart for a short trip like this; less than a week, we can connect through food.

I’ve certainly shared that one of our favorite things to do together is find delicious food while traveling around exotic destinations.…

3 simple recipes to get your lover in the kitchen

…blindfold them, rip all of their clothes off, lead them into the kitchen and make passionate love to them on the floor.  The END.   Just kidding.

This is actually a true story of two good friends of mine. A few nights ago, my husband Joe and I went out for an impromptu double date with our good friends.  They’re an amazing couple that I am totally inspired by.  I really appreciate the dynamic of their relationship.  However, I was caught a bit off guard when Sara (names changed for privacy) mentioned that she really does not like to cook.  Her husband Tom followed this by saying something like, I’ve found that if I do all of the cooking, she and I are both happier.…

Let’s talk about sex. Does she lead?

Let me fill you in quick.  My husband Joe and have been studying with Freddy Zental Weaver and Elsbeth Meuth, the founders of TantraNova for nearly five years.  We have the privilege of assisting them, as they lead couples through a week-long workshop at Esalen Institute in Big Sur, California.  I believe in Karma, as does Joe-who mentions that ours must be exceptionally good, to be doing this work in this freaking incredible location.  It’s true.  It’s really incredible.  We get to hang out in paradise for a week, and are fed the most delicious and nourishing food I’ve ever tasted.  Every day we have conversations with new friends, that share the desire to discuss global or universal concepts (engage highly stimulating conversation).…

Meal time enlightenment, thanks to a Buddhist chef

Absolute bliss!  That’s what I felt when the bright orange kobocha squash made contact with my taste buds.  It was so creamy, and it was if it was melting in my mouth.  I didn’t ask about the seasoning, as I was experiencing such joy; my mind was clear of any other thoughts or curiosity.  I did taste a slight hint of dill which was peculiar and unique.  It might not sound appealing at first, at least not for me, but I was pleasantly surprised.  Have you ever been so incredibly delighted by food that your mind becomes clear of all thoughts?  My senses were fully ignited and engaged during this particular meal.

Where was I dining may you ask? Shangri-La in Oakland, California. …

Indian Dal recipe for lovers

This week we have a special treat!  A fellow foodie and lover of Indian food shares her recipe for Indian Dal and the art of cookin’ up love in the kitchen with her partner.

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Indian Dal Recipe for Lovers  |  by: Mckenna Toston

Cooking is an art that fulfills me and keeps me grounded despite what’s happening in my world.  No matter what stressful events my day might bring, a little time in the kitchen always puts a smile back on my face–especially when I’m in the kitchen with my partner.

After five years of collaborating in the kitchen, Vincent and I have mastered cooking together.  I chop, he pours.  I stir, he seasons.  He flips, I plate.  Those are the basics, anyway.  …

Tantric kissing is juicier with a plate of fruit

Last weekend, my husband, Joe and I participated in a Tantric kissing workshop led by the highly skilled Divine Kika.  Who could resist a beautiful Brazilian Goddess leading you through intimate practices with your beloved?  Well, Joe and I couldn’t.  One look at the workshop through a Facebook event page had us hooked.  First, I will let you know that it was absolutely wonderful and certainly one of the best date nights that we’ve ever had.  It was unique, we were in the company of conscious couples, and we were learning something new — learning something that would enhance our relationship; everything about it was just perfect.

I’d love for you to get a vision of the setting for this perfect evening.…

What does a record breaking athlete eat?

My dear friend, iX-chel Sandivel is a truly driven individual and record breaking athlete. In her competitive running days, she nationally ranked in the 10,000 meters, and placed 11th at the NCAA II Track & Field Championships.  She is a former Nike elite runner for “The Janes.”  Ix-Chel is now a women’s empowerment coach.

I met iX-Chel in an unsuspecting place and felt an instant connection.  She is consistently cultivating her skills and is truly a well-rounded teacher.  I love learning from her and we have so much fun together.

Our unsuspecting meeting place was a nail salon in Las Vegas.  Both iX-Chel and I visit nail salons once in a blue moon.  To add another silly twist to this scenario-my husband came to pick me up at the salon and was waiting for a few minutes near all of the glossy fashion magazines (gotta love him)!  …