Most of us don’t get the opportunity to venture deep into the Yucatan jungles of Mexico. Fortunately, Rachel Hunter does, which means we got to travel along on last night’s episode of Rachel Hunter’s Tour of Beauty on Ovation.
Unlocking the health and beauty secrets of the ancient Mayan culture reminds me that my gluten-free pantry isn’t only the place to turn for developing sumptuous recipes. It’s also my greatest asset when it comes to healthy living. Hundreds of years ago, the Mayans already used foods direct from nature – foods we are labeling as “super foods” these days – to enhance their strength, protect their health and to encourage vitality. Honey direct from the hive, native chia seeds that were at one time more prized than gold and everyone’s favorite, chocolate, top the list of ancient super foods we can still add to our diets today for our health.
Fortunately, these foods are increasingly easy to come by as the rest of the world realizes their powerful effect on well being. For example, an energizing elixir of raw honey, fresh squeezed lime juice and chia seeds was the early morning sipper of choice for providing Mayan warriors with an energizing burst that would last throughout the day. If that simple, yet potent, combo powered a Mayan warrior through his day, just think of the impact it might have on your next cross fit session! Of course, if you’re into cross fit, you might not be into the sugar rush of honey. That doesn’t prevent you from taking advantage of that age-old wisdom from Mexico.
How about starting your day with a sugar-free pure chocolate drink? The Oaxacans blend pure cocoa beans, rich with minerals like magnesium and calcium and micronutrients like copper and zinc, with almonds and cinnamon to produce a heady and pungent Mexican hot chocolate. How’s that for an early morning pick-me-up?!
Another breakfast favorite popular in Oaxaca is a crispy bar made from popped amaranth that’s Mexican name literally translates to “happiness bar”. And to think, I believed myself to be so innovative when I popped amaranth at home several years ago. It seems the Mayans were again far ahead of the times when it comes to turning natural products into healthy foods.
The thought of how ancient cultures revered nature for its provisions, used those precious commodities in their purest form for cultivating wellness and took the time needed to create superior end results reinforces the importance of educating ourselves about world culture. There is so much to learn that can magnify our efforts in staying healthy in body, mind and spirit.
Travel – either vicariously through shows like Tour of Beauty or packing those bags and taking to the friendly skies – is essential to gaining that culture knowledge. That’s why I’m super excited for every adventure Rachel Hunter takes us on. Be sure to watch Sundays on Ovation at 8PM ET! I’m also pretty jazzed about Ovation’s Tour of Beauty Sweepstakes where you could win a trip to any of the 13 cities Rachel travels to on her tour of beauty. Enter HERE for a chance to get your travel on and boost your culture knowledge!
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