MOUNTAIN LIFE - Blue Mountains | Winter 2021

63 CHUGGING CHAGA: IMMUNE-BOOSTING SMOOTHIES The easiest way to get all of your major nutrients required for optimal recovery is in smoothie form: It’s delicious and the right ingredients can boost your immunity while speeding up recovery from a hard day’s shred. Holistic nutritionist and owner of Collingwood’s Press Market Sara Johnston is a huge fan of paying close attention to health over the winter. “Right now, I love chaga protein powder. Chaga—a mushroom that grows on birch trees—can help to support your immune system thus reducing your risk of becoming sick,” she says. (Get it mixed into a gingerbread smoothie at Press Market for a festive treat.) Johnston recommends experimenting with your blender and making warm smoothies: “You can absolutely make a hot beverage if you let it blend it long enough. I’d strongly recommend doing it for a hot chocolate–style smoothie.” A FEWMINUTES A DAY: YOGA “Yoga helps with mobility and coordination, and it helps people recover from injury,” Shirlee Williams, yoga instructor and owner of Buddha Rider, explains. And it doesn’t take much: A few minutes a day can make a big difference, though getting into a virtual or real- life class for a full session regularly is important too. “If you don’t have much time, run through a sun salutation as many times as you want. It’s super-easy and moves the entire body,” she says. If you prefer a home practice, Buddha Rider is putting every class online. Williams recommends carving out a space in your home for your practice. “It doesn’t take up a lot of space, but have a space for your mat, maybe add a candle or some incense or flowers. Whatever makes you feel good.” “If you can just sit and take six focused breaths, you can shift your whole day.” 167 Hurontario St, Collingwood bluemountainteaco.com blue mountain tea company Loose leaf organic teas, blends, kombucha on tap, turmeric shots and wellness herbs to give you just what you need to ease through the day ! (/+ +û!. "1* 0%+* ( and beautiful tea infusers, teapots, mugs * 0. 2!( #! . 0+ ü0 any lifestyle