Monthly Favorites: Inspiration for Your Summer Wellness Journey

Discover What We Are Cooking, Reading, Moving and Listening to at Flourish Wellness

Hey Flourish Wellness Community,

I hope you all are enjoying a fun-filled summer that brings you joy and relaxation. As we embrace the warmth and vibrancy of this season, I’m excited to introduce a new segment in our newsletter. In the last newsletter of each month, I’ll be sharing some of my personal favorites to inspire and connect with you. This is a chance for us to exchange ideas and explore new interests together.

The inspiration for this idea came from the delightful weekly emails I receive from Emily Lex Studio. Her beautiful watercolor artwork and engaging updates always bring a smile to my face. You can check out her stunning work here.

Now, without further ado, here are a few of my favorite things from this month:

What I’m Cooking: Chickpea Salad Recipe

This fresh and vibrant chickpea salad has been a staple in my kitchen this summer. It’s quick to prepare, packed with protein, and bursting with flavor. Here’s how you can make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 can chickpeas, drained and rinsed

• 1 cucumber, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced

• 1/4 red onion, finely chopped

• Handful of cherry tomatoes, halved

• Fresh parsley, dill and basil chopped

• Juice of 1 lemon

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a large bowl, combine the chickpeas, cucumber, bell pepper, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.

2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.

3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.

4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

What I’m Reading: The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis

My friend started a book club that will focus more on faith-based books and I’m loving the concept and being a part of this small but mighty community of women discussing faith and spirituality. The Four Loves by C.S. Lewis was our first book. This insightful book by C.S. Lewis explores the nature of love from a Christian and philosophical perspective. It’s a profound read that delves into the four types of love—affection, friendship, romantic love (Eros), and charity. I’ve found it deeply thought-provoking and enriching, and I highly recommend it for anyone looking to reflect on the different dimensions of love in their life.

How I’m Moving: Morning Yoga Sessions

To stay active and centered, I’ve been incorporating early morning hot yoga sessions into my routine at least once a week for about a year and it’s my favorite way to start the day. Starting the day with some gentle stretching and mindful breathing has been incredibly refreshing. It sets a positive tone for the day and helps me stay grounded and focused.

What I’m Listening To: Hollow Coves Nothing to Lose Album

Lately, I’ve been captivated by the soothing melodies of Hollow Coves. Their music is a perfect blend of acoustic folk and indie vibes, creating a calming and uplifting atmosphere. Whether I’m cooking, relaxing, or working, their new album Nothing to Lose has been my go-to soundtrack this summer.

I hope these favorites bring you as much joy and inspiration as they have brought me. I’d love to hear about your favorites too! Feel free to comment and share what you’ve been cooking, reading, moving to, and listening to this summer.

Stay well and keep flourishing!

Warmly,

Alison Massey MS, RD, CDCES

Flourish Wellness