Nutrition: July is the time for fresh local tomatoes. Even though they are grown just about everywhere, tomatoes are native to the western side of South America. Spanish explorers brought tomatoes to Europe where their use spread throughout the 16th century. Tomatoes, along with eggplant, peppers, and white potatoes, are all membesr of the nightshade family.

Recently, most of the health-hype surrounding this fruit has been focused on its lycopene contents. Lycopene is an antioxidant which has been linked to cancer prevention and DNA protection within white blood cells. Current research is revealing that the health benefits of tomatoes actually come from the synergistic relationship between lycopene, antioxidants like A, C, and K, potassium, and fiber within this vibrant summer treat. Since many of these nutrients are fat soluble, they are best absorbed when tomatoes are eaten with fatty foods like olive oil, avocado, and nuts.

Interestingly, a recent USDA Agriculture Research Service study revealed that organic ketchup delivered almost double the amount of lycopene than conventional ketchup. I’m not a scientist, but I can only assume that if this is true for tomatoes, the same is probably true for other produce. So eat up your organic, local veggies! Tomatoes are best enjoyed fresh, added to summer soups like gazpacho, on salads, and sandwiches.

Yoga: I had to giggle at the magical synchronicity of life when I realized this month’s yoga tip is focused on the fifth niyama - Isvarapranidhana (surrender the fruits of your actions to God). I’m giggling because for the last few weeks all signs for me have pointed to the practice of surrender. My mom use to say that God first speaks with a pebble through your window, then a brick, then a bulldozer…I’m officially in the bulldozer phase.

This niyama invites me to explore my own processes. Specifically, how I work towards my goals. Recently, my process has been all about the doing, going, and producing. Isvarapranidhana encourages me to surrender the outcome and enjoy the journey. I’m reminded to soften and to savor each step as I open to the joys of curiosity, awareness, and creativity that are abundant in each moment. When I live more in the balance of clear intention and surrender I am more present to the quality of my life - regardless of how it may or may not turn out.

Stress Management: Begin to get mindful of the ways your own mind takes you out of the moment – the projecting, planning, worrying, etc. When you notice that you are no longer present, pause and take a few long, extended exhalations. As you are exhaling, begin to let go of what is taking you out of the moment. As you inhale, begin to bring your focus into the abundance of the moment you are in.

Suggested Reading: Coming Home to Eat: The Pleasure and Politics of Local Foods by Gary Paul Nabhan. This is an inspiring and informative read on the ecological, economical, and communal ways in which food shapes our personal and collective experiences.

Past June Monthly Tips