Relaxation, Meditation, and Basmati Rice Curry

30 Days of Health and Contentment Day 2

Let’s make it a great day!

Were you successful in avoiding white flour and sugar yesterday? It is hard to do, especially after a long holiday that includes so many traditional sweets and baked goods. I have to admit that I actually felt sick from overeating, and was looking forward to starting this 30 days of health and contentment!

If you haven’t read the introduction to this plan, or you need links to the resources like the MyPlate app, click here: Introduction to 30 Days of Health and Contentment.

If you missed the Day 1 post, you can read it now. 30 Days of Health and Contentment Day 1. 

As we will every day, let’s start off by planning meals, snacks, and exercise in the Livestrong MyPlate app. Today’s exercise is 60 minutes of yoga, at least ten minutes should be dedicated to relaxation and/or meditation. Refer to the Introduction link above for the app and yoga resources. These are free resources.

Continue avoiding white flour and sugar. One exception today is an afternoon snack that includes some dark chocolate (hooray!!).

Find time today to  read about the benefits of turmeric and black pepper 

For dinner today, try to incorporate a recipe that includes turmeric and black pepper like the Basmati Rice Curry below.

Basmati Rice Curry

Cuisine: Indian
Keyword: basmati rice, rice, rice curry
Servings: 4
Calories: 153kcal
Author: A. JoAnn

Ingredients

  • 2 tsp. olive oil
  • 2 onions chopped
  • 1 red or yellow pepper or 1/2 of each, chopped
  • 1 c. Basmati rice
  • ½ tsp. ground cumin
  • ¼ tsp. turmeric
  • ¼ tsp. black pepper
  • ¼ tsp. ground coriander
  • ¼ tsp. ground ginger
  • ¼ tsp. celery seed
  • ¼ tsp. smoked paprika optional
  • ¼ tsp. salt
  • 1 ½ c. water

Instructions

  • Mix the spices and salt in a small bowl and set aside.
  • Saute onions in olive oil until translucent, then add pepper and cook for about 3 minutes more. Stir in rice, spices and salt.
  • Add the water and bring the ingredients to a boil.
  • Turn heat to low and simmer, covered, for 20 minutes. Let rice sit for 5 minutes, then mix and serve.

Notes

As a variation, add sliced almonds, chopped kale, cooked sweet potatoes or any other leftover veggies to the rice just before serving.

Keep the Faith

Remember, every effort is better than none, there is no failure if you are trying. We are going to start 2018  with better health and a more positive attitude, so take in all the good vibes and enjoy the day.

This post is not intended to offer medical advice. Check with your doctor before beginning any diet or exercise plan.

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Author: A. JoAnn

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