Self appreciation.  This isn't some cheesy overly sappy post about how we should love ourselves.  If you want to be a positive influence on yourself and the people around you as well as reach your health goals you must respect where you're at.  Even though you may feel under rock bottom you can always build up.  Period.  No matter what is going on with you other people have been there and gotten better.  It's a statistical truth.
     So treat yourself with gentleness and kindness.  Even if other people don't treat you with respect show yourself respect with what you eat and your daily habits.  I always tell people "Fake it till you make it." It's ok not to feel the way you want to feel emotionally. They're just emotions and they will pass.  Are you really going to let the way you feel steal your victory?  What's important is what you do to make things better.  Actions speak louder than words and emotions come and go like the wind.

Eat Well,
Coach Daniel Riehn

Follow me on Twitter here.  

One of my favorite smoothies:
Frozen Blueberries
Frozen Strawberries
Fresh mint
Almond milk
Home made black tea

Blend in equal parts and enjoy!

P.S. Use fresh if you can get it. Remember those farmer's markets!

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     Greens, greens, AND MORE GREENS!  They're cheap, in season, and very filling.  Try a warm salad or put them in soups or use the classic and super simple steamed technique.  Don't be afraid to try new things and experiment.  "Greens" constitute as spinach, all lettuces, broccoli, kale, asparagus and ANY dark green leafy plant.
     Bonus tip: Make your own vinaigrette dressings!  They're easy to do and make a huge difference in taste for the end product!

Eat Well,
Coach Daniel Riehn

Follow me on Twitter here.

     This trick to staying cool is easy and cost effective.  Use peppermint oil on the back of the neck!  When any breeze hits you a shiver of cool will run down your back.  I have used this with great success on myself, friends and family.  Give it a try and tell me what you think in the comments below!
Eat Well,
Coach Daniel Riehn

Follow me on Twitter @eminenthealth

It's asparagus season!  Here is a great way to enjoy these iconic vegetables.

2 bell peppers
1/3 cup virgin olive oil
1 clove garlic, crushed
2 or 3 Tbsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp pine nuts
2 Tbsp chopped basil
12 oz fresh asparagus
Your favorite olives!

Blister the skin of the bell peppers over the stove and place in plastic bag to sweat.  After 8 minutes or so take out of the bag and peel the skin off and remove the seeds.  Then dice.
     Combine the garlic, basil, lemon juice and olive oil in a food processor or blender to make a dressing.  Then toss in the bell peppers and stir. Season to taste.
     Take both ends of the asparagus and gently pull down to snap off the woody ends.  Boil in lightly salted water for 3-4 minutes or until just fork tender.  Then drain and place in ice bath.  Drain again and transfer to serving dish.  Add dressing and top with your favorite kind of olives.

Eat Well,
Coach Daniel Riehn

Follow me on Twitter @eminenthealth