What’s an alkalizing activity? Getting Back to Basic

If you've been a LoveLife client you know we talk about alkalizing, A LOT. During Phase 1 we amp up nutrient dense foods, remove inflammatory foods, drink Green Juices and check in with our pH each day. But we also encourage what we call Alkalizing Activities which work in tandem with the dietary changes to get back to Basic. 

What's an "Alkalizing Activity" and how can they help our bodies increase our pH?

Here's the skinny:

• Even if you are eating your absolute optimal diet,  when stress levels are high your pH will be more acidic.
  
• Alkalizing Activities = More traditional spiritual practices such as meditation, yoga or prayer are wonderfully alkalizing but any activity that brings you into a state of expansiveness including laughing with your kids, spending time with a pet, or singing in the car also qualify.
  
• Bring awareness to these activities - notice how you feel in this state. How are you holding your body? What does your breath feel like?
  
• Aim to bring this awareness to more stressful moments.  Feeling annoyed in traffic? Perfect opportunity! Can you rustle up any of that same feeling you had when you were laughing with your kiddos last night?
  
• Don't judge! Sometimes we can manifest the feeling from the alkalizing activity, sometimes we can't. This is a practice makes perfect kinda practice.
  
• Deep breathing: For a quick fix, taking 5-10 deep breaths is an effective way to alkalize. Deep breathing is calming to the mind and spirit and allows more oxygen in. Without enough oxygen, our bodies are unable to clear everyday toxins, which you guessed it, are acidic.
  
• Don't get too caught up in your  daily pH readings. Remember, stress is acidic! pH levels take a while to shift (we're talking months to a year) so try checking in a couple times a week instead.  Aim for a gradual increase.  When you dip, amp up your greens, drink a green juice and practice  your alkalizing activities.

Warm Curried Apples over Kale

It's that time of year and the very first signs of fall starting to appear. While in Austin, that may only mean 90 degree days instead of 100, we'll take it. The cooler weather has us spinning the spice rack looking for aromatic combinations that conjure up an autumnal attitude.

This 'recipe' is a simple one and yields big flavors in mere minutes. Not crazy about the idea of greens in the morning? This combo may change your mind.

• 1/2 apple, diced
• 1/2 TB coconut oil
• 1-2 tsp curry powder*
• 2 cups kale, cut into thin ribbons
• 2 TB water
• Himalayan Salt to taste

Heat 1/2 TB coconut oil over medium heat. Add diced apples, a touch of salt and curry powder. Stir until apples are heated through and curry is fragrant. Remove from pan and reserve. Add water to same pan, swirl around to collect the little bits of flavor leftover from the apples. When hot, add the kale, cover and steam for 2-3 minutes. If any water is leftover, drain and serve topped with the warm apples. 

Yummy with a sprinkling of hemp seeds, or if you eat dairy a dollop of high quality greek yogurt...a great place to experiment with proteins, especially if kicking off your day with this tasty little snack.

*Sensitive to nightshades? Check to be sure curry spice blends don't include chili powder and or sub out with a pinch of garam masala. 

Starting School on the Green Foot

So you hear it from us all the time, eating green paves the road to Alkalize Town. But as we load ourselves up with green goodness, how can we get our children on board, too? The start of a new school year is an ideal time to flex some new veggie skills. (The following tips work for grownups, too!) 


• Snacks: We promise, we’re not trying to tell you kids are going to love kale chips (even though they might, even our grandpa does!) BUT we do think they may be excited about these green after school snacks waiting for them in the freezer. Recipe here.
  
  
• Green Smoothies: Kids love ‘em, especially with a fun-to-say name. The Hulk, Monster Morning Mash, Green Machine are a few of our favorites. Bananas, berries, nut/seed butters and spinach make smoothies kid friendly while packing a nutritional punch. Still not jiving? Try a drop or two of vanilla for an easy zazz. 


• Dips: Veggies go from Yawn to Yow! when paired with a fun dip. And who doesn't like ranch dressing? We think this homemade hemp seed version may just get your kid’s vote, too. Crazy tasty with fresh snap peas.

• Veggie Noodles! No fancy gadgets needed. Simply take a wide vegetable peeler and run it down the length of a zucchini to create thin noodle-like strips. Saute with a bit of oil, top with your favorite marinara and a little cheese to please young palettes.

• Let Veggies Shine: There’s loads of tips for hiding veggies in other foods but we’re all about showing them off. Pita pizzas are an easy weeknight meal and little hands can be part of the fun. Let them choose from chopped broccoli, diced squash and cherry tomatoes to make a colorful pizza face. Watch those veggies get gobbled up in a hurry.

Have any kid tested and approved food tips? We'd love to hear about them below in comments! 

TLC Greensicles

From the looks of our favorite foodie blogs and the plethora of pumpkin spice starting to show up in recipes, autumn has come knocking at some of your doorsteps. However, here in Austin, the dog days of summer often linger into September. What better way to cool down then nibbling on something sweet, ice cold AND green? (Not down with green? You may like our super easy Magic Melon) 

Stay cool LoveLifers. 

TLC GREENSICLES

Makes 10 popsicles

Ingredients:

• 2 cups of your Favorite Green Juice*
• 3 bananas
• 2/3 C nondairy, non-nut milk for P1 compliance (hemp milk is our favorite, but coconut would work well, too) 
• 3 tablespoons raw honey
• 2 apples, juiced (or 1 cup good quality apple juice, no sugar added)

Add juice and ingredients to a blender or food processor and blend until smooth. Pour into popsicle molds, insert sticks, and freeze overnight. To remove from popsicle mold, let it sit on your countertop for 5-7 mins and gently wiggle the popsicles loose. To store, keep in airtight container, and separate rows with parchment paper. 

* For our favorite TLC Green Juice, juice 1 cucumber, 2 kale leaves, 1/3 bunch parsley, 1 handful spinach & 1 celery stalk

Hemp Seed 'Ranch' Dressing

INGREDIENTS

• 2/3 cup water
• 1/2 cup hemp hearts
• 2 TB olive oil
• 1 TB apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 tsp Himalayan salt
• 1/2 tsp dried parsley
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1/4 tsp dill
• 1/8 tsp tarragon

Blend all ingredients until completely smooth - works best in a blender or food processor vs shaking in a mason jar to really pulverize the hemp seeds. This is what creates the creaminess factor. Refrigerate for at least an hour to allow it to thicken. 

Top 5 Summer Travel Tips

It's August 1st and for a lot of us, this month includes some precious time off. How can we keep our healthy habits rolling while we're away from home? Read on for our top tips we try our best to stick to when vacations come a-callin'. 

#1 GIVE YOURSELF A HEAD START
The day you ink in your vacay on the calendar, count three days out and plan on rocking a mini Reset. Kick the processed foods, load up on fresh veggies and aim for a Green Juice each day. You’ll be way ahead of the curve come take-off time.

#2 PACK SNACKS
Snacks, snacks, snacks - we love snacks! Basically a daily mantra around here but one we really get our pompoms behind when we’re set to travel. Unfortunately, gas stations and vending machines haven't quite caught up so we hit the bulk section of the grocery store before we hit the road. Seek out easy proteins that don’t require refrigeration: low sodium or unsalted nuts and seeds being top choices. Add a baggie of baby carrots and snap peas to the mix and we’re willing to bet you’ll have a few folks joining you for snack time. Two of our favorite prepackaged snacks that travel exceedingly well: 

• Go Raw Sprouted Pumpkin Seeds
• The Goodbean Roasted Chickpeas

 #3 KNOW BEFORE YOU GO 
Once we have our basic itinerary planned, we looooove heading over to Google Maps and letting the “Search Nearby” feature find local restaurants, cafés, grocery stores and even juice bars close to our hotels and areas of interest. Helpful keywords include: co-ops, vegetarian, vegan, farm-to- table, organic, local grocery. These terms return results we may have not thought of and we’re able to plan for at least a meal or two. Hint: Breakfast is often the time of the day it’s easier to squeeze in a meal on the healthier side of the spectrum. At a roadside diner? Opt for some fresh fruit and load your omelet up with veggies. If everything else that follows leans towards indulgence, you can feel good about kicking off the day the right way. 

#4 INDULGE...GUILT-FREE 
Hey, this is your vacation! If you want to indulge, go for it and check the guilt at the door. If you deny yourself to the point of feeling punished, it can be near impossible to enjoy your time away. So go ahead! Savor every bite of that creamy fettuccine and relish every drop of your favorite glass of Pinot. Know that when you get home you can get right back on track (plan on it) and indulge with a smile - you’re in control. 

#5 PUSH THAT RESET BUTTON 
Ahhh, you’re home and back in the driver’s seat. After a vacation, we’re often toting a few extra pounds (hello fettuccine + Pinot), maybe dealing with some bloating and not feeling 100% in the energy department. Use these body signals as motivation to get back into your groove. But with all that laundry to do and emails to answer who has time to make a healthy meal? Here’s the trick: make a quick veggie soup or batch of beans BEFORE your trip and freeze so you have a wholesome meal waiting for you upon your return. Bonus points for ordering a CSA basket to arrive the day after you do so you have a rainbow of veggies to Reset with. 

Sugar cravings are also often at their peak after a few days of carb loading and cocktails (read: sugar begets the want for more of the same). Take a deep breath and be sure you're hitting protein timings throughout the day - this will help you tell sugar who's back in town.

HAPPY TRAVELS!

Laura Goes Way Beyond a Cleanse

LAURA CAPES TERRY
Marketing Director, Push Pedal Pull
Hobbies: Running around Austin with my 2 year old son

NEW FAVORITE FOODS
This breakfast is an energy powerhouse for me: quinoa with avocado and scrambled eggs. No better way to start the day.

FOOD  DISCOVERIES

• Dairy: Causes congestion and sneezing
• Gluten:  Causes bloating and breakouts
• A glass of Green Alkalizer first thing in the morning is better than any cup of coffee or energy drink for me!

THINGS I CAN DO NOW I COULDN’T BEFORE:
I have more consistent energy throughout the day... no more need for that extra shot of caffeine in the middle of the afternoon.

I also lost 5 pounds and no longer have a bloated tummy so my clothes fit much better.

Finally, I have more skills in the kitchen! I've learned how to cook healthy, whole, clean foods for myself and my family. I'm excited that my son will grow up learning how to do it for himself too.

MORE FROM LAURA:
When I signed up for this program, it was because I just came off a week of "partying" with family to celebrate my son's 2-year birthday. Normally I'm a very clean eater so a week of eating junkie foods left me feeling yucky and depleted of valuable energy.

Since it’s a significant financial and time commitment, I took the program very seriously and followed each step of the program to a T. All I can tell you is that I got way more out of it than I expected. I joined the program to clean up my diet and gain more energy but along the way I also lost those "last 5 pounds" and my skin has never looked better! I've spent tons of money on dermatologists and fancy skin creams over the years....the biggest thing I took away from the program is that if I give my body the nutrient-rich clean/whole foods that it craves, my body does the rest.

If anyone is on the edge about whether or not to do this program, I'd tell you it's a commitment... but it's worth it. If you put yourself into it 100%, it will give back to you 10x and your life will never be the same again. - Laura

Juicing VS Blending: One of our Top FAQ

One of our most commonly asked questions: Is it better to juice or to blend?  As with most good questions in life the answer to this depends upon numerous factors and there is no black or white. As the saying goes – it’s like comparing apples to oranges.

JUICING

• Juicing renders densely concentrated nutrients that are easily digested. You are able to literally mainline all of the phyto anthocyanins, minerals and micronutrients that plants have to offer.
• Because of this infusion capacity juicing is the absolute best way to receive a mega dose of food-based vitamins, minerals and enzymes IF they are non-sweet. When sweet veggies and fruits are stripped of fibers, healthy toddy’s become agents of blood sugar irregularity leading to energy crashes and increased cravings.
• Veggies, herbs and roots we recommend juicing: Celery, Cucumbers, Cilantro, Parsley, Ginger, Turmeric, Jalapenos (if you’re not Nightshade sensitive) and Leafy Greens such as Kale, Spinach, Swiss Chard (if you’re not suffering from hypothyroidism).
• Tip: If you wish to sweeten up your green juice, add just one carrot rather than an entire base of carrot, OR eat some protein along with your carrot juice. Hemp or Chia Seeds are a perfect antidote. Happy Hemp is our personal fave.
• Juicing is also preferable if you’re someone whose digestive system has a harder time with fibrous roughage.
• Since juice is less filling than a blended drink, it’s easier to drink copious amounts and to therefore crank up the wattage on your nutrients.

BLENDING

• Since blending retains fiber, opt to blend when using sweeter veggies such as carrots and beets or when mixing fruits. Though this will still spike blood sugar, its effects are less intense  As mentioned above, you can help to counteract the blood sugar spiking effects by adding a protein boost 
• Looking for a healthy meal replacement? Blending might be a good option, especially in the summer months or in warmer climates when the digestive system is more capable of processing cooler, richer drinks.
• Some constitutions are sensitive to food combining principles or have more sensitive digestive systems. If this is you, experiment and attune to the following signals to find out if your body appreciates blending: How are your cravings during the day? Energy levels? Are you experiencing afternoon crashes or holding strong? How about your digestion?
• If you have a strong digestive system, follow our Green Smoothie Equation below or check out our downloadable Green Smoothie Guide + Recipes here.

Student Scores an A+ on her TLC

Candy Cantrell

Full Time Student
Hobbies: Traveling, Food & Wine, spending time with her dogs

Snapshot Takeaway: "I have so much more energy! I have far less digestive issues that plague me during the day, which leaves me feeling so much happier and more energetic."

New Favorite Foods

The quinoa & avocado breakfast, and Lydia's bread with apple slices and sunflower butter.

Food Discoveries

• Nightshades: Bloating, weight gain
• Soy: Bloating, Stomach Pain
• Citrus: Impacts Energy Levels

More From Candy
"I have Hashimoto's Thyroiditis and have been plagued with digestive issues all of my life. Before beginning this program, I had to take daily digestive medicines to combat any number of tummy troubles- sometimes several times a day for a mix of different problems. After day 3 of the cleanse, I no longer had any stomach pain or bloating! I seriously could not believe it! It has been 2 months since I started the cleanse, and I still have not taken a single medication for digestion. I am amazed by that!

Having Hashimoto's makes it difficult to lose weight and during my cleanse, I lost TEN pounds, and since reintegrating have only gained 3 of those back. My weight has been consistent every day for the first time in years. Plus, I have realized that a lot of the negative feelings I was having about my body- that I thought were tied to weight- I think were actually tied to my digestive health! Since my tummy feels better, I feel better about myself! 

I am a vegetarian, and before the cleanse, I thought I was eating healthy and exercising and was so frustrated by my weight and my health! I thought I was doing everything right & it wasn't working! I have since realized that there was a lot I still could learn! I am a full time student and really value education- I feel the real value of doing the Love Life Method is that I feel like I took a college course in myself, in my body, and how to keep it happy! To me, that has been priceless!

I have since reintegrated many foods back into my daily routine. Now I know what foods to avoid, if possible, and what foods I can use to reset my system and put me back on track- say after a bowl full of chips and salsa, washed down with a margarita- I know the next day, I need to repair my system & now I know how to do it!

So, not only do I feel lighter, but my purse feels lighter because its not full of antacids, anti-nausea & anti-bloating medicines!" - Candy

Grilled Veggies + Hemp Sauce

Simple, delicious and an excuse to pull out the grill. Pick a selection of your favorite veggies, toss in olive oil, salt and pepper to your taste, a handful of freshly chopped herbs (basil and tarragon are perfect for the summer), or a tablespoon of our seasonal mix included in your kit. We added fennel to zucchini and squash which took this dish to a whole 'nother level. After grilling we served bowls of veggies with hemp dipping sauce on the side but it would be great drizzled over the top as well.  

No grill? Roast the veggies on a baking sheet 400 degrees until browned on edges, about 10 minutes, check after 5 minutes, shake pan and continue checking every 3 minutes or so until desired level of doneness. 

Veggies we used:

• 1 large fennel bulb, cut into wedges (tip: save the fronds for a killer veggie stock!) 
• 3 zucchini, cut about 1/2 inch thick
• 2 yellow squash, cut
• Mushrooms (if participating in our programs, hold off until Phase 2 to include)  

Place veggies in bowl and toss with:

• 1 TB of olive oil (maybe a little more if veggies you are using are bigger, we're not looking to soak in oil, rather just enough to thinly coat) 
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 TB of freshly chopped basil

Hemp Seed Dressing: 

• 1/2 C hulled hemp seeds
• Small handful of fresh basil
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• Himalayan to taste
• 1/3 C filtered water (more if a thinner consistency is desired)

Dressing recipe courtesy of Chef Yvette Franco of Natural Epicurean Culinary Arts.

May Group Member Annie ROCKS out her TLC!

Before & After: 3 weeks & 11 pounds

ANNIE TEVELIN

Owner, SkinOwl Consulting
Hobbies: Traveling the globe little by little, hanging with my puppy, being outdoors, makeup artistry

Food Rewards

• Weight: 11 pounds lost
• Overall Energy levels throughout the day are very steady and high at "8"s where at PreProgram there was much more flux
• Late Afternoon/Evening energy: Up from "5" to "8"
• Cravings: Decreased from "5" to "0"
• Anxiety: Reduced from "4" to "0"

New Favorite Foods

I am in love with the Superfood Shake. I add a half of a banana and it keeps me full for a good portion of the day! I also have to say that I'm in love with cranberry beans. Fun to cook with and filling.

I also fell in love with making tea. Having tea at night, after dinner, is still a part of my life. It nightcaps any stress in the day and relaxes me before I drift to sleep.

Food Discoveries

• Nightshades: Swelling, fogginess, bloating
• Spicy foods: Mild anxiety, swelling, bloating, confusion
• Corn: Bloating, Addictive qualities

More From Annie
In the beginning, I was nervous. I hadn't had very good discipline in the past

when it came to diets and elimination cleanses, but I'm happy to report, this was unlike anything I had ever experienced. In sum, this program was one of the most hand's on, customized, supportive operations I've ever been a part of. Every day, I knew I had an arsenal of support, whether waiting for me in my inbox or within the Facebook Group. I felt encouraged daily and the amount of support I received never wavered. It is what got me through as I look back on the last three weeks. 

I just wanted to say THANK YOU from the bottom of my heart for everything Kim, Erin, and this program has done to encourage me, push me, and motivate me. It goes without saying that I feel SO much more in control of my body, my mind and my overall level of discipline. I know what does my body good and what distracts my body from feeling its best. Its felt like a lot longer than 3 weeks, which a good feeling, There are routines and recipes I will indulge in for the rest of my life and lessons that will last a lifetime. 

Onward and upward! I have the knowledge and now I can have the results whenever I need them!" - Annie

Short on time? Dial ‘this’ in to get more!

As you know by now, we talk a LOT about food. And, there is no denying that discovering our personal diet, is a secret weapon to looking and feeling our best. 

But of course, there’s more to this story than how we fuel with food. We also fuel our body and mind with our daily activity levels. Exercises benefits are undeniable. 

Now, as a health coach you’d think I’d have no excuses, right? Up until 2 years ago that would be a resounding Yes! Since first joining my Dad at the health club when I was 14, I’ve been addicted to the power of movement and strength. 

However, recently, I’ve let things slide, and while I’m not overweight by any stretch (thanks to optimizing foods), I know how much better I feel when I’m active and fit.

So what’s MY excuse? Lack of time. 

But as we all know this is totally bogus. I am actively choosing to prioritize work over my health and well-being. 

Sound familiar?

Time is a sneaky excuse and whether it’s diet or exercise it’s too easy fall prey to this one. But we are worth more. 

Read on to find out how to tell Time who’s boss and to take the reigns on our motivation. I’ll be revisiting this tool with you!

...........

Get out a pen and paper. Follow these 3 steps in a journal to take the reigns on your motivation.

Connecting with our source of motivation is essential. It all starts with “Why”. Without this, we are aimlessly pulled in different directions. 

STEP 1
What are your pain points? Write them down. 

• For Diet: Maybe you are tired of having digestive issues. Or you’re tired of being tired and you know that food can help you. 
• For Exercise: You are tired of not feeling strong or in shape. Or maybe you’ve gained weight and can’t fit into your pants. Perhaps you’re not sleeping as well. 
• Free-Flow journal on what’s not working for ya and throw it all down. There’s no right or wrong. This is all uncensored and viewed only by you. 
• While it is important to acknowledge what isn’t working, we also don’t want to dwell here, especially because chances are high that we already remind ourselves of these pain points, through negative self-talk.

STEP 2
Now that you’ve tapped into what’s not working, let’s move on to what you would rather create in your life. This is the fun part! Envisioning is key to success and is used by world-famous athletes like Michael Jordan to well known financial tycoons such as John D Rockefeller. Masters in their field know the value of envisioning and imagining your desired outcome. 

• Close your eyes. Imagine how you want to feel. Run with it for 60 seconds or more. Visualize it. Feel it. 

STEP 3
Put it on your calendar. What can you move to tell yourself you’re worth it? As Stephen Covey says: “The key is not to prioritize what's on your schedule, but to schedule your priorities.” 

We're also teaming up with KOR180 to offer you an outstanding deal to get back in the gym! 

KOR180's offer for You

Our dear friends and partners in health prosperity, KOR180, have a generous offer for you. Kor180 is way more than a gym! Their offerings include pilates & ryde to tunes to keep you jiving, healthy recipes, amazing green juice and sparkly happy people who believe that life is about more than fitting into size 0 jeans. We adore them. 

Kor offers a free week for all new clients but have even more for LoveLife clients and friends:

• No contract
• Cancel anytime
• Free to freeze in monthly increments
• Unlimited Ryde classes
• Monthly member event
• No enrollment fee when you use NOFEE promotion code at checkout (normally $100) 
• $149/mo auto-pay when you use LOVE promotion code at checkout (normally $169/mo)

Get started here today!

Hemp Seed Kale Chips

My 93 year-old grandfather eating his first kale chip and loving it.
Corona Beer in koozy, not Phase 1 compliant. ;)

Are you in Phase 1 and looking for family weekend crowd pleaser? These will do the trick. There are tons of kale chip variations floating around the web but this one is a favorite for us because it uses Hemp Seed Butter - makes the chips especially satiating. But you can easily make them with Kale, olive oil, salt and a sprinkling of hemp seeds if you like. The trick is to be sure the kale is washed and thoroughly dried before putting in the oven and cook till they're browning on the edges for max crunch factor. 

*Update: Both Greenling and Whole Foods now offer pre-washed and chopped kale making this recipe even more of a snap! 

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 head of kale, rinsed and thoroughly dried (or else chips will not crisp up)
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil 
• Hemp Seed Butter or Tahini 
• Himalayan Salt to taste

INSTRUCTIONS:
Preheat oven to 400 degrees. Roughly chop kale. Lay kale in a single layer on a baking sheet and drizzle with olive oil. Spread several dollops of hemp seed butter with the back of a spoon throughout the chips (it's okay if it's not entirely even). Roast chips in oven until crisp, about 10-15 minutes. Keep a good eye on the chips near the end as they can quickly go from crispy to burnt. Salt to taste as soon as you remove from oven. 

Should you eat like a Caveman?

Do you feel confused by the endless bombardment of information about good vs bad diets? Camps are drawing deeper lines in the sand on their “sides”. 

Grains are good. Then they are bad. Oil vs No-Oil. Gluten vs No-Gluten.....

One of the largest divisions is around Vegetarianism vs Caveman (Paleo) Diets. Vegetarians insist we are all meant to thrive on a plant-based diet and shun animal proteins. Paleos proclaim we are all meant to exist on the diets of our ancestors in the old stone age which allegedly was high meat and no grains. 

This TedTalk enlightens! An anthropologist studied the Paleo claims compared to those of our true ancestors.

One of the key takeaways of her talk is that our ancestors' diets actually varied significantly based on where and how they lived. Some ate more plant-based materials with very little animal proteins while others ate high proportions of animal protein. Grains were even present in some of our ancestors’ diets, but not all. 

Bottom line: We are all unique! Our take-away: Find what works for YOU and take your life to an entire other level. 

Divisions aside, Paleo and Vegetarians share a lot more common ground than is often noted:

• Eat lots of whole vegetables. Very few will dispute that a high percent of plants is a good thing.
• Cut out processed foods and sugars. This is a tenet of the Paleo Diet and one of their strongest. This is also emphasized by some of the better Vegetarian programs as well.
• Local, seasonal food is always in season. Enter shameless plug for Greenling Organics. Again, this is commonly emphasized in both Paleo and Vegetarian Diets and one most of us can agree is common sense.
• If you do intend to eat animal protein, choosing consciously raised, sourced and well cared for animals is night and day. Grass fed, free range and preferably selected from your local farmers market or a reliable resource such as Greenling.

The Segars Find What Works for THEM, Together

KAREN & JOSH SEGARS

KAREN SEGARS
3D ENVIRONMENT ARTIST

Food Rewards

• Weight: Lost 10 pounds
• Sleep Quality: "5" to "9"
• Waking Energy: "4” to “6”
• 2-4 PM Energy: "4” to “8”
• Cravings: "5” to “0-1”
• Hunger: "5” to “0”
• Bloating: "6” to “0”Anxiety: "3" to "0

New Favorite Foods

Breakfast has become our favorite! Now that we have incorporated more foods - our typical breakfast is quinoa, avocado, green onion, tomato, and hot sauce. So good!

Food Discoveries
I didn't have any major food intolerances - but I must say, now that my energy is up  and I feel better overall - when I do have a couple of glasses of wine, I definitely notice it the next day! I have also found that light snacks throughout the day really help keep my energy and metabolism up.

From Karen
"Josh and I really enjoyed this program. The structure of it (and treating our bodies like a scientific experiment) really helped with our success. There were definitely ays that we were "h'angry," but luckily we tended to be offset from each other. So, while one of us would be grumpy, the other could keep motivation and will power up. Part of the appeal of this program is the length of time - it set us up to create good habits with eating.

We already incorporated some vegan meals in our diet, but now we rarely have dairy or meat (still have eggs somewhat regularly). Also, cutting out processed foods has inspired us to expand our cooking repertoire - from baking bread to making pasta and salad dressings from scratch - and we love it!” - Karen

JOSH SEGARS
GRAPHIC DESINGER

Food Rewards

• Weight: Lost 30 pounds
• Heartburn: "10" to "0"
• Waking Energy: "3" to "7-8"
• 2-4 PM Energy: "2" to "7-8"
• Overall Energy: “5” to “8”
• Cravings: "4" to "0"
• Bloating: "8" to "0"
• Mental Clarity, Focus & Memory: "3" to "7-8"
• Sinus Congestion: "5" to "0"
• Itchy Eyes: “5” to “0”
• Neck Pain: “4” to “1-2”
• Back Pain: “5” to “1-2”

New Favorite Foods

Quinoa for breakfast! My wife and I add avocado, tomato and green onion. Sometimes we spice it up with an egg cooked over-easy or some black beans. Mmmm!

Food Discoveries

• Nuts & Coconuts: These guys are killers for me. Within just a few minutes of eating, my energy tanks and I feel anxious, light-headed and queasy. I can't believe I never noticed it before.

From Josh
"The first two weeks were very tough for me. I was questioning the potential effectiveness of the program and was really concerned it wouldn't work for me. Week three wasn't stellar but I started seeing at least some improvement. Unfortunately, fat, salt and processed foods were still haunting me to the point that I was literally dreaming about bad foods at night! By week four I was still struggling but I felt empowered to continue, and was becoming addicted to the weight loss, foods, and new found energy. Then, after sussing out nuts and coconut as intolerant foods, everything really lit up and I finished the program on a high.

The LoveLife Method resonated with me on a personal level before ever starting the program. I loved the methodical nature of it and its focus on the individual. It never made sense to me to follow a diet designed for the masses. Sure there may be data supporting a fad diet's effectiveness for a percentage of the population, but everyone is unique. LLM's approach was geared toward the individual. Even though my wife and I completed the program together, we both found our own intolerances and nuances, and adjusted our diets accordingly. Although my results did come quickly, the LLM wasn't just a
quick fix either. It laid the groundwork for a life long diet specifically tailored to my body and my tastes.

So the program was great, but what about the dreaded rebound? Well, as I write this over a month after completing the program, I am maintaining a 30 pound weight loss, higher energy levels and fewer allergy issues. My wife and I even enjoy an occasional splurge night without much guilt because we truly enjoy healthier options and easily revert back to eating our new favorites from the program. 

Kim and Erin, I can't thank you enough. The Love Life Method was a great experience that will stay with me a lifetime.” - Josh

Is Cheese Bad For You?

As humans, we commonly like for things to fit in tidy little boxes with easy explanations. While this might work well for organizing our underwear drawer, with foods, it doesn’t hold a lot of water and often leads to lackluster results.

As someone who spent her lifetime following every ‘healthy’ diet on the planet, looking for the one-size fits all approach that would solve my health maladies, I get the temptation to want to be told - This is good for you. This is bad for you. Now just follow this diet and with a wave of your wand everything is better......

During SXSW Interactive I heard an inspiring talk by Linda Avey who created 23andMe. Her personal genome test kit was named “Invention of the Year” by Time Magazine in 2008. Her inspiration for wanting to make genomics accessible for the average person? Studies which show medicines only work 40-50% of the time. So why aren’t meds working for everyone as we’ve commonly been told? Many answers could be at play, but a large one resides in our genes. Hence the ultra-cool revolution in targeted gene therapy and personalized medicine.

Linda Avey was at the forefront of this movement in medicine. And now she is at the forefront of what she considers an evolution beyond personalized medicine. Personalized medicine is still ultimately about treating sickness. She wants to prevent sickness and foster wellness. Her latest incarnation is still being hatched, but she’s moving her genius to the personalized wellness movement.

The premise: Can you find what works for YOU and prevent the need for personalized medicine? It appears we are coming full circle with what our ancient philosophers have told us all along:

Know Thyself. And Let Food Be Thy Medicine.

Now you might be wondering....What does this have to do with cheese?!

Perhaps the temptation to place cheese into the Good Camp or the Evil Camp is misplaced as well. Maybe, just maybe, it depends on you, along with wisdom from our elders.

How to know if cheese works for you?

Cheese is a problem food for a large % of people creating everything from stomach bloating, lower energy levels, congestion, headaches, sleep issues and fatigue. Obviously if cheese is bringing you down, the only way up, is without.

But how to know for sure? The clearest, most accurate test is with a good old fashioned elimination and mindful reintegration. But in order to receive an accurate read, read on:

• Eliminate all forms of dairy for at least 2 weeks. As surprising as it sounds, even a trace amount of dairy can warp your results during this test period, since it can hang around in your body for several days.
• Towards the end of the test period, note any areas that have improved. Has your sleep improved? Your digestion? Your allergies? Energy levels?
• During your test period, suss out life circumstances that could interfere with your results. A big one is for us women and our cycles. PMS can mimic the effects of food intolerances: increased bloating, back pain, fatigue, irritability and headaches can all be indications of either PMS or the impact of dairy.
• Since dairy is only one of many foods that could be creating issues, it is most optimal to omit the common offenders all at once to get a true read on your vitals.

When you are ready to re-integrate cheese and find out how it works for you, follow what we call the basics. In true form with - “Let Food Be Thy Medicine”, ask yourself, would this pass what Hippocrates or our great grandparents considered real food?

• Eat non-processed dairy. Food did not come in packages with multitudes of chemicals, preservatives and coloring agents to make it spreadable.
• Eat unpasteurized, raw cheeses. There is an abundance of raw dairy that has avoided the pasteurization process. Pasteurization renders any food unrecognizable to our bodies and it certainly didn’t exist in the time of Hippocrates.
• Know the quality of the herd. Shop at your local farmers markets to receive cheeses produced from free range animals that graze on the land rather than those that are factory farmed, which of course, didn’t exist in our elders' lives.
• Not all dairy is created equal. If consciously sourced cow dairy does not work for you, try consciously sourced raw-chevre (goat cheese)
• And with all good things in life - moderation is key. If eating dairy, begets eating more dairy, this might be a signal.....

Hiring LoveLife Coach

Do you have a passion for healthy eating and healthy living? Do you feel inspired in the presence of others creating positive changes in their lives? Is your work history rich with different types of responsibilities? Do you want to work for a small company with big things on the horizon? Are you a master at written communication? 

If so, read on! 

LoveLife Method is growing at a rapid rate. We are currently hiring a wearer of many hats with an emphasis on client coaching, administrative responsibilities (to start), community outreach and content creation. Please read thoroughly for full details. 

ABOUT US:
Here at LoveLife, we have a passion for helping people realize how great they can feel, through the simple power of food. LoveLife Method is a food-based cleanse system which allows our clients to connect the dots with what they eat and how they feel. Through a suite of tools including a product kit, technology, a unique coaching methodology, food partners, recipes and more - our clients achieve unprecedented results in weight loss, higher energy levels, improved digestion, decreased allergies and pain. Our unique method allows clients to optimize their diets and find the one that’s right for them. We are in a high growth phase and are preparing to be a major force in the health and wellness field. 

You will have the opportunity to help others create lifelong changes that will serve them in living their healthiest, happiest lives. Every day is an adventure and you will be amazed by what you witness.

As mentioned, we are a growing start up with serious vision and potential. We want to help change the way individuals and the world views food. And we’re looking for someone to join us who will be vital to our growth. 

YOU:

• You are interested in food, health/wellness and live a life that reflects this
• You are open minded, curious and passionate about the potential within each of us
• You are flexible, grounded and not easily flustered - we are a start up, after all! 
• You thrive in environments that require you to be creative. 
• You want to and will be able to make a difference in this organization and understand that this is a great opportunity to be involved at the ground level.
• You have a positive and can-do attitude.
• You don’t subscribe to what we call ‘diet dogma’ - each of us is unique and requires unique foods. Some of us thrive as vegans, while others need animal protein, and every variance in between. Our method helps us to uncover what is best for each person. If you feel that there is only one way to eat whether raw or paleo or vegan, etc – this will not be a good fit.
• You are very comfortable with and love technology including Word, Google Docs, Facebook, Twitter, basic blogging - no exceptions. 
• You are an excellent communicator, writer and excel at communicating complex topics, a good amount of our communication with clients is via email and online forums (a writing sample is required if brought in for an interview)
• You enjoy a high level of customer service and sensitivity to nuances of individual clients
• You are a strong team player who likes to dive in and help teammates wherever your skills are needed
• You deeply value confidentiality and commit to dealing with private information and handle this with the utmost discretion.
• You live in Austin, TX and have your own reliable transportation. This is a must. 
• You are seeking a long-term career in Austin with no plans to move. 
• You are willing to sign a nondisclosure and non-compete agreement.

WHAT THE POSITION LOOKS LIKE
This role is a combination of different functions including the following:

• Your primary role is as a coach. You will begin training as a Jr. Coach. and will participate in online Q&A forums, interacting on a daily basis with clients. Training time is estimated at 2-3 months. Eventually, you will also hold in-person meetings with clients, along with sending daily emails supporting them in experiencing these changes for themselves.
• For the short term, as you are training and we are transitioning, you will also act as our administrative assistant (this role to replaced with a full time administrator). Initially, your hours will include managing and organizing the office, acting as the intermediary between clients and company, client email support and assisting in research, marketing and other areas as needed. This is a fabulous way to learn the ins and outs of how our programs and methodology works.
• Community Outreach: Meeting with vendors and partners, helping to facilitate community events.
• Content Creation: Social media posts, content editing. Amateur photography a plus.

As you can see, this position really does require someone who loves to wear a myriad of different hats and has fun doing it. 


Full time, non-exempt (40 hours/week ) at our office in 78704
Salaried position, commensurate with experience. Benefits after three months.

Get more of a feel for us, our programs and who we are here.
Read more about the founder, Kim Love here.
See what our clients have to say here.

TO APPLY:
Please send a cover letter, resume to careers@lovelifemethod.com.
Do you have a blog, Instagram, Tumbler you’re proud of? Include it!
We WANT to meet you - highlight why you’re our missing piece!
Also be sure to confirm in your cover letter that you live in Austin and have your own transportation. 

Because of the number of applications, we regret we will not be able to respond to emails without ALL requirements.