Time to recharge the batteries.

I used to think I was superwoman.  Sometimes I am, I put on that cape and work my ass off, but there are times when I know that my body and mind need a full on break.

I listen to my body only and ignore comments from other people when they say "push harder, don't stop, no excuses"!  Those are other peoples  expectations, not mine. There is time when you need that encouragement to help you push through to your goals and then there is time where you really just need to stop, collaborate and listen, I mean relax.

My battery needs to be recharged, I need my body & mind to reconnect, time to reflect on the events over the last 12 or so months and time to think about which direction I am going in life. I love a little bit of perspective too.

Time to re-charge. Get away from the daily routine of work, gym, crazy mad city life & head to another country to relax, spend time with myself, my thoughts and of course my lovely man. To spend time together away from our current daily shuffle.  

Everyone is different, some people push themselves into the ground, sometimes it might be worth it (athlete, competing) but I guarantee you everyone would love just a week OFF, no matter what they do.You would be mad if you said you didn't. 

I love that I am going to be away - to eat great food, sleep in, swim, shop, get massages - read a BOOK! That is a huge sign that I am not getting enough down time when I haven't read a full book in months. I used to read about 10-15 books a year. Time reorganise my priorities!!

Next week we head to Thailand... for a blissful 10days of relaxmus.  I cannot wait to see how my mind and body feels after getting away from it all.

What are my favourite healthy meals to cook!?

I love preparing food. I love eating food and I enjoy healthy food that tastes good. I get bored easily and like to mix things up.  So, to keep up with my pictures on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram thought I would post my "Top 10" favourite meals to cook/prepare.

You don't have to be Masterchef or need any fancy equipment, just need to keep chopping and changing recipes so you still enjoy the food you make for your dinner (and lunch leftovers, the best)!

Almond & Coconut Crusted Chicken

Marinate chicken in Dijon mustard, water, white vinegar, garlic, salt & pepper before rolling in almond meal & coconut! Bake in the oven for 20-25mins until golden brown.

 

Fresh Fruit with Coconut Milk

Cut up delicious in season fresh fruit, mix with some nuts (almonds, walnuts) and some seed mix for a scrumptious breakfast

Red Thai Sweet Potato & Pumpkin Soup

This has been my favourite to make this winter, so easy! I just fry up some onion, red thai paste, add 2-3 cups chicken stock, add cut up pumpkin and sweet potato, cover with water and boil for a couple hours. Stir in 400g can of coconut milk/cream and blend together. Serve with roasted radishes on top. Delish

Prawn & vegetable lazy frittata

In a fry pan with coconut oil cook up 4-6 eggs, mixed together.  Cook for 2-3mins on one side and then place vegetables & prawns, place under the grill in the oven for 10-15mins until cooked/golden brown. Top with fresh greens.

Coconut Flour Pancakes  

Haven't made these for a while. Used to use oats which is easier and cheaper!  Mix half cup oats or coconut flour with 2 full eggs and 2 egg whites, 1 tsp vanilla essence and cook - serve with maple syrup and blueberries.

Baked Chicken with Chorizo

Love a one pan cooking recipe. Put chicken drumsticks or thighs in a roasting pan, cover with coconut oil or olive oil, oregano, chorizo and bake in oven for 35-45mins.  Add pineapple on top, mix up a little and cook until chicken skin is brown (another 15-20mins) Serve with greens.

Savoury/Eggy Muffins

Instead of making cupcakes, some genius thought of savoury muffins! These are great for breakfast, a snack whatever you fancy.  I just scramble up some eggs, add ham, fresh basil, tomato, salmon, whatever is going, spoon into oiled cupcake tins and cook for 15-20mins or until brown.  ** Don't fill too high, they will rise.

Kangaroo Steaks

Herb & garlic marinated kangaroo steaks available at most supermarkets now. Great for dinner, lunch or even breakfast, like below, which I had last week.  Remember to let kangaroo meat rest for 5mins after taking it off the heat.  Serve with greens, roasted radishes and macadammias. Yum 

Chicken or Turkey Mince Rissoles

Mix up 500g mince of your choice with onion, fresh garlic, ginger, basil, egg, salt and pepper and make into small balls and fry in coconut oil or olive oil. They freeze well and are yummy!

Protein Balls

200g almond meal, 10 dates cut up, 2 scoops pea protein isolate, 1 tsp vanilla essence, 1 tbsp cacao/cocoa powder, 1/2 slivered almonds. Mix together. Roll in coconut and put in fridge. Freeze well also