Wednesday, May 28, 2008

PROSPERING DURING HARD TIMES


While hanging out at the pool with friends, I noticed the conversation kept shifting toward the economy and an overall sense of lack. On a daily basis, the media reminds us about the high price of gas, sky-rocketing food costs and the dismal housing market. No matter what the economists proclaim, I firmly believe that we can all manifest abundance and learn to prosper during hard times. When I experience feelings of lack and fear, I find that reaching for gratitude almost always help me realign with a sense of abundance and prosperity.

Here's a great exercise to help you manifest what you want in life:

Each night before going to sleep, make a list of all the things that you are grateful for in your life. Learning to appreciate the things that you already have creates a tremendous sense of joy. Gratitude and appreciation align all seven of your major chakras and bring a sense of eternal peace to everyday living. As you author your nightly gratitude list, review your day and feel thankful for all the positive things that happened to you and helpful people that crossed your path. Some people find it useful to analyze the events of the day in sequential or reverse-chronological order. Remember that there is nothing too small or trivial to feel grateful about. Examples of items of on a gratitude list include “I am grateful for my daughter’s beautiful smile.” “I am so thankful for this bed I sleep in." or “I feel so grateful for the new toothbrush I used today.” As you write your gratitude list, focus on the positive emotion that feeling thankful evokes within you. You will be amazed at how this simple exercise will shift your focus from one of impoverhment to abundance.


Here's a delicious recipe from Chef Hugo that is easy on the wallet but packed with nutrients and flavor.

Bountiful Black Bean Casserole
Serves 6

1 16 ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup whole kernel corn, frozen
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/2 cup Vidalia onion, chopped
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1 large tomato, seeded and diced
2 large carrot, sliced thin
1/2 cup low-fat cheddar cheese, shredded


1. Preheat oven to 350 F. In a 2 quart casserole dish combine black beans, corn, water, salt. pepper, cilantro, garlic powder, onion and tomatoes..

2. Cover dish tightly with lid or foil. Bake for 30 minutes

3. Remove dish from oven and add carrots to dish. Stir well to combine.

4. Cover and bake for additional 30 minutes. Remove from oven.

5. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese. Bake uncovered for 5 additional minutes or until cheese melts. Serve warm




Per Serving: 181 Calories; 1g Fat (4.0% calories from fat); 12g Protein; 34g Carbohydrate; 14g Dietary Fiber; 0mg Cholesterol; 236mg Sodium. Exchanges: 1 1/2 Grain(Starch); 1 Lean Meat; 1 1/2 Vegetable; 0 Fat.

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