Nutrition: Beets should be in full swing now in most gardens and farms. They are vibrant root vegetables with edible greens. They come in red, rainbow, white, and golden-yellow. Their cultivation dates back to prehistoric times in North Africa where just the greens were eaten. The roots weren’t considered food until the ancient Romans became the first to eat the roots. They were catapulted into popularity when the British restricted sugar trade and Napoleon ordered beets be used to produce sugar.

Beets have the highest sugar content of any other vegetable, but are very low in calories. There rich color pigments are from the compound betacyanin, which also has been proven to have cancer fighting properties. This phytonutrient also helps to protect against heart disease and soothes inflammation in the body. The greens are full of the antioxidants beta-carotene and lutein, which help to boost immune function and rid the body of toxins. Beets are a fantastic add to your salads with a bit of goat cheese and orange zest. Make sure to check-out this month’s recipes for how to pickle beets.

Yoga: My yoga tip for August is quite simple…turn your attention to sensation. Yoga philosophy teaches that Grace resides in the present moment and the more you attune to sensation the more you are coming into the moment. Feel the warmth of August on your skin. See the colors of your garden. Taste each bite of every meal. Let these moments of presence begin to open you to your own sensation of inner Grace.

Stress Management: Turn one meal or snack a day into a meditation. Start by bringing your attention to your breath and taking a moment to be grateful for your food. Take your first bite, place your utensil and food back on the plate, and begin to chew slowly. As you are chewing bring your focus to the taste and texture of your food. Continue to slowly move through each bite, allowing your pace to slow down, savoring each moment.

Suggested Reading: For some ideas on how to create a more sustainable diet read A Guide to Conscious Eating by Mark Bittman. This book is full of recipes and ways in which you can change the world one bite at a time.

Past July Monthly Tips