Anti-Inflammatory Friday 5-3-2024
Today marks the 46th anniversary of something we all want to avoid... spam email. The first one ever sent came from an employee of the Digital Equipment Corporation sent out to hundreds of unsuspecting users on May 3, 1978.
Which leads me to say, I hope this email finds its way into your inbox. My goal is to give you a tip or two to help you overcome your inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory MINDSET
I'm a big journaler. It's one of the first things I do when I wake up. In the past few months, Noah has taken up the practice as well. But what people often see as a time-intensive practice, he has boiled down into a small, but effective dose.
Joy in 3, 2, 1
He calls his morning journal "Joy in 3, 2, 1." And it's pretty simple. He writes down 3 things he's thankful for from the previous day.
It's such a simple practice, but he says it's completely changed his perspective for the rest of the day.
Anti-Inflammatory HEALTH TIP
Beyond water, incorporating anti-inflammatory drinks into your daily routine can provide additional health benefits.
Ginger Lemon Tea
Ingredients: 1 inch of fresh ginger root (peeled and sliced), 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp honey (optional), and 1 cup of boiling water.
Instructions: Place the ginger slices in a mug and pour boiling water over them. Let steep for 5 minutes. Strain (if desired), then add lemon juice and sweeten with honey to taste.
Benefits:
Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory, digestive, and immune-boosting properties.
Lemon is high in vitamin C, which both repairs tissue and reduces inflammation.
Anti-Inflammatory RECIPE
Garlic Turmeric Stir-Fried Vegetables with Tofu
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
1 block (14 oz) firm tofu, pressed and cut into cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
2 cups broccoli florets
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 carrot, julienned
1 zucchini, sliced
2 cups spinach leaves
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to enhance turmeric absorption)
2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari
1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the Tofu:
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium heat.
Add the tofu cubes and fry until golden brown on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove tofu from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Vegetables:
In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
Add the minced garlic and grated ginger, sautéing for about 1 minute until fragrant.
Increase heat to medium-high and add the broccoli, red bell pepper, carrot, and zucchini. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still crisp.
Stir in the spinach and cook until just wilted.
Season the Dish:
Return the tofu to the skillet.
Sprinkle the ground turmeric and black pepper over the vegetables and tofu, mixing well to ensure even coating.
Pour the soy sauce or tamari over the mixture and stir well to combine.
Final Touches:
Cook everything together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped cilantro over the top before serving.
Anti-Inflammatory MOTIVATION
I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel." - Maya Angelou
Here's a fun way you can challenge yourself this week: Perform three random acts of kindness this week.
Whether it's helping a stranger, doing a favor for a friend, or volunteering, track these acts in a journal or mark them on your calendar. It's a simple way to bless the recipient and boost your own mood.
Remember, people don't forget how you made them feel.