Berry Delicious!

Here is a quick, healthy and satisfying morning meal that takes just minutes to put together, making it a perfect choice for those hectic mornings on the go. Although fresh, organic berries are preferred, frozen versions work just as well.

The berries are packed with antioxidants to protect against inflammation and cell damage caused by free radicals, the yogurt is a good source of calcium and probiotics which are important for digestive and immune system function, and the seeds are loaded with fiber, protein and Omega-3 fatty acids that help regulate blood sugar, build and repair body tissue and reduce inflammation.

Top it off with a sprinkle or two of cinnamon and you are not only enhancing the flavor of the berries, but also boosting the health benefits!  Recent studies show that cinnamon possesses antibacterial and anti-fungal properties, and research conducted by Wheeling Jesuit University found that simply tasting or smelling cinnamon can improve attention and memory!

Ingredients:

• 1 cup organic mixed berries (blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, cranberries for example)
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon water
• ½ cup unsweetened plain yogurt (dairy free options: almond or coconut based)
• ¼ teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 tablespoon flax, chia or hemp seeds

Directions:

Combine berries, lemon juice and water in a small saucepan. Cook on medium heat and gently stir until berries are warm. Transfer to a bowl and top with yogurt, cinnamon, and seeds.

Single Serving. ENJOY!!

Susan Hartman

Susan is a lawyer, Pilates instructor and passionate advocate of natural wellness. In 2006 she began exploring various nutritional and movement therapies, meditation and other alternative means of healing in an attempt to naturally relieve hormonal imbalances, eczema and back and joint pain. After much research and trial and error, she found a personal regimen that not only alleviated her symptoms, but that also left her with a new found sense of overall health and wellness. During this period of exploration, she was introduced to Pilates and was surprised by how quickly she began to feel and see positive results in her body. She loves how Pilates emphasizes body awareness and the connection of breath to movement, and she believes it can bring about lifelong health benefits including stress relief and improved strength, flexibility, balance and coordination.

Today Susan strives to promote the importance of regular exercise, a clean whole foods diet, compassion for self and others, and a curious attitude, all as a means to maintaining vitality and living a balanced and centered life. When she is not practicing law or teaching Pilates, she can be found hiking or biking in the woods, soaking up the sun atop her paddleboard, engaged in a yoga or group fitness class, or immersed in a book or classic movie.