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Sneaking Health in Unexpected Places: The Farmer's Market
Friday, August 17, 2012 - Courtney Sunday
Your health is an everyday journey, but some days (and particular situations) can be tough to keep it up. We’re sharing tips on how to bring health into health-sucking situations so you can still fit into your fave pair of jeans (long after the fun is done).
The title of this Sneaking Health post may seem…well, sneaky.
Farmer’s Markets are filled to the brim with produce and may be seen as the epitome of health. This may be true, as bouquets of carrots look as aesthetically pleasing as flowers and children carry kale the way others may carry Cheetos…but there are ways to be even more mindful while visiting your summer market.
1) Local produce does not necessarily mean organic. Which one you think is better (if you have to choose) is entirely your decision. If it matters to you, ask the farmer. This isn’t your mediocre supermarket – you’re encouraged to interact.
2) On that note, ask questions. Many local farms specialize in only certain types of produce. This means they certainly know how to prepare them. If you were swimming in Swiss chard, you would find more things to do with it than sauté it in olive oil and call it a day. Ask for a unique and wonderful recipe and give it a try.
3) Beware the smells. Uncooked fruits and vegetables at best smell earthy. Unfortunately, this cannot compete with the other food for sale at the market. Wafting through the air is cooking and baking of sausages, waffles, and cookies. These may be organic however they still are treats. If every time you run out with good intentions to buy fresh ingredients and come back with a white flour treat or two, you’re doing your goals a disservice. Plan in advance not to be swayed.
4) Farmer’s markets often have missions behind them to slow us down, to keep us engaged with our food and to start wearing hemp (we’re kidding about that last one…sort of). Learn what your market stands for. Take time to learn about what’s in season. Health is also in the mind, and curiosity is the first step to keeping our minds active like the bumbling toddlers playing on the grass outside.
And don’t forget your canvas bag!
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Courtney Sunday has two cats and a boyfriend who are very patient with her health and wellness obsessions. She teaches yoga, Pilates and indoor cycling and gives Thai massages through her Toronto business Om at Home Yoga. When she is tuckered out, she takes up the sport of sleeping.
