Today show nutritionist, best-selling author, and Westchester resident Joy Bauer releases a new book this month titled Yummy Yoga: Playful Poses and Tasty Treats (Abrams Books for Young Readers, 2019, $14.99).
The book consists of playful photographs featuring a diverse group of kids demonstrating yoga poses. On the opposite side of the spreads, imaginatively sculpted fruits and vegetables mirror the same poses. And then, surprise! Lift the gatefold flaps to find simple, kid-friendly recipes incorporating all of the healthy ingredients featured in each photo.
For instance, the Triangle Pose food photo is created with a cute avocado torso, a lime head, and broccoli stalks for arms and legs. The recipe under the flap features Broccomole Dip. Presented like this makes kids want to make it and eat it — or at least try it.
Broccomole Dip
Makes about two cups
What You’ll Need
1 to 2 cups broccoli florets
2 ripe avocados, peeled and chopped
1/2 cup chopped tomatoes
2 to 4 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons lime juice
1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons chopped cilantro (optional)
1 garlic clove (optional)
Black pepper (optional)
How to Make It
1.Steam, microwave, or boil the broccoli in a small amount of water until it’s very soft. Drain off water.
2.Place the broccoli and avocados in a mixing bowl and mash with a fork until smooth.
3.Add the chopped tomatoes, onion, lime juice, and salt. Add the cilantro and garlic to the bowl if you wish. Mix well until combined. Season with a bit of additional salt and a sprinkle of pepper to taste.
4.Serve with raw broccoli florets, baby carrots, bell pepper sticks, or whole-grain crackers, and start dipping!
The easy-to-learn yoga poses illustrated by kids will inspire action as well. Let your kids try each pose. Need some encouragement? Consider these stats:
•Yoga has been proven to help manage stress and anxiety in children.
•Yoga improves children’s physical and mental well-being.
•Clinical studies also indicate that yoga improves academic performance and emotional balance.
Yummy Yoga: Playful Poses and Tasty Treats is a fun and fresh introduction to yoga and nutrition for kids.
Jean Sheff is Co-publisher and Editor of Westchester Family as well as a yoga and veggie fan.
