Roots Therapy

There have been many studies done on the effects of *Shinrin-Yoku* (a term used for 'forest bathing') which proves that spending time amongst trees significantly reduces cortisol, the body's primary stress hormone, alongside triggering the body to release NK cells and anticancer proteins to increase the body's immunity and ability to fight cancer cells!

This is due to the fact that "trees release airborne organic compounds called phytoncides (such as essential oils) which, when inhaled, help your nervous system shift into a relaxed, parasympathetic state and lower your heart rate"

Wow!! Just 20 to 30 minutes of sitting or walking in a place filled with nature can dramatically improve your health and your life 💪🏻 😌

You know I'm a big fan of the humble potato 🥔 🍠 Potatoes help build up glycogen storage therefore protecting us against blood sugar problems, weight gain and a fatty liver. Potatoes keep the liver grounded and stable, giving us a stable foundation on which to heal.

*Potato and Herb Stuffed Peppers*

*Ingredients*

1 kg potatoes, peeled and diced
1 1/2 teaspoons onion powder
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon paprika
2 tablespoons finely chopped parsley; more for garnish
2 tablespoons finely chopped chives; more for garnish
1 tablespoon lemon juice
3 yellow, red, and/or orange bell peppers

*Directions*

Preheat oven to 400°F/200°C.

Add 3 inches of water to a medium-sized pot, bring it to a boil, and add a steaming basket. Place the potatoes in the basket, cover, and steam for 5 to 10 minutes, until tender. Remove and cool.

Place the potatoes in a large bowl or pot. Add the onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, chopped parsley, chopped chives, and lemon juice. Mash until smooth using a potato masher. You may need to add a few tablespoons of water if the potatoes are very dry.

Slice the bell peppers in half and remove the seeds and core. Place them in a baking dish. Divide the potato mash between the halves. Cook in the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, until browned on top. Remove and serve. Garnish with chopped parsley and chives.

Enjoy 😋

*Tips*

It’s important to choose bell peppers that aren’t green. If they are green, it means they are unripe and can cause digestive discomfort. Red, orange and yellow peppers are ripe and the best choices.

Ref medicalmedium.com