Lotus and Luna Blog
The Magic of Lunar Tea
It’s crazy to think about how a celestial body some 250,000 miles from earth is responsible for the ocean tides that rise and fall every single day. In astrology, the sun is responsible for our zodiac personality and the moon is responsible for our emotions. Where the sun gives us our spirit, the moon gives us our soul.
The moon has a feminine energy in general which is responsive, reflective and receptive. Since about 70-80% of our bodies are water, it makes since that the Moon rules over how we react as well.
Sunlight helps lighten our mood so much that the lack of it can actually cause a type of depression called Seasonal Affective Disorder. Since the light of the Moon is reflective of Sun, the subtle glow of the moon can be just as valuable to us as the sunlight. Just as we create tea which the help of sunlight, we can also make tea with the help of moonlight.
A lunar infusion is simply an herbal tea, left to brew during the night under the soft moonlight. Lunar infusions make for an enchanting and fun full moon ritual. Sip in the morning to fill your body with Lunar Magic! Here’s how...
Lunar Tea Instructions:
- First, find a bowl, cup or pitcher that speaks to you and fill it with water.
- Place the water in the moonlight and add herbs to your liking.
- Next, place the bowl in the moonlight and let it brew overnight. You can place it wherever speaks the most to you. Try placing it in a garden or surround the bowl with your favorite energy stones!
- Once morning arrives, strain and enjoy!
- Some of our favorite herbs to put in our lunar teas are chamomile, hibiscus, passion flower, borage flowers, and lemon balm. There’s no exact amount, just add what feels right to you.
Other ideas to try:
- Mint
- Peppermint
- Rose
- Hibiscus
- Violet
- Calendula
- Borage
- Passionflower
- Self Heal
- Nettle
- Fennel
If you want to feel the effects of the Moon a little more try wearing a bracelet with Moonstones or adding some Moonstones to your tea overnight (don’t forget to wash them before and take them our before drinking)!
Use the code: LUNARMAGIC20 for 20% your next purchase!
P.S. Have you signed up for our Full Moon Club yet?!
https://www.lotusandluna.com/products/full-moon-club-subscription
Written by Kaylee Bustamante
Meet our French Intern, Quentin!
For the past 2 months we’ve had the pleasure to work with our amazing French intern Quentin! Quentin was born and raised in Chartres, France and is now pursuing a business education in Cambrai, France. He travelled over 5,500 miles to America specifically to work with Lotus and Luna as our new customer prospecting intern. Each day Quentin rode the company bike 2 miles to and from work. In his time here, he worked on improving his english, perfecting his sales strategies, and expanding his overall business knowledge. Most importantly, Quentin is leaving us with a new found love for Mexican food and Kombucha (the “gross” drink Janelle introduced to him on his first day)!
We sat down with Quentin over his favorite meal, a carne asada burrito, to ask him some questions about his experience in America while working with Lotus and Luna.
What was it like transitioning from life in France to life in San Diego? Any challenges?
My biggest challenge before coming here is the difference of the language because when I came here I didn’t have good English speaking skills. Yes, I had rusty English before and now with this internship I can talk with other people and have a better comprehension, but I know I need to work more on that.
What is your favorite place to eat in San Diego?
I don't think I have a favorite place to eat because I discovered a lot of different food styles in my time here. For example, I can start the week eating Chinese and continue to eat burritos from a Mexican restaurant, going to trader joe’s to eat a little food and finish with fast food. It’s interesting here because I can change food styles every day and the portions are very large here. For that reason I changed and tried the restaurants that I don't have in France. And it was good luck to have new co-workers like Christina to give me a lot of good recommendations
Where is your favorite place to go in San Diego?
It might be weird, but my favorite place would be here in the office because I like the atmosphere in here. When i'm not working, I like visiting all different beaches in each area of San Diego, there are so many good ones! I also like the old town area because it has a lot of history, and feels like visiting another century.
What are some of the differences you have noticed between San Diego and France?
The biggest difference I have seen here is the type of people in the street, most people are friendly and happier. For example the people smiling at you for no reason, and it is rare to be judged by strangers for your style or self expression. In France, people like to judge your life choices or how you look.
What is something you will miss most about San Diego?
I have a lot of things I will miss, but mostly I will miss the life I built here in just a short time. Even just going to work, then coming home to prepare my dinner. I know i can make this life in France too, but i have the impression I found my place here. Secondly, the ease of finding a lot of stylish clothes for a good price. Lastly, the relationship I have created with my colleagues within the company, particularly with Beth because she is very funny and helped me find my place here.
How has this internship better prepared you for the future?
This internship allowed me to improve my english skills and my sales skills. For example, before coming here, just thinking about making a call in english with information about other companies made me very nervous and I didn't have confidence to do it. But now, with more training from all members of the team, I can call any company for information, pitch our brand, and follow up to get the order! My conversations are more fluent and I have lost all my worry about life in other countries.
What was your favorite part about working with Lotus and Luna?
My favorite task here is preparing orders to ship, because I can be up and moving, but I also like to learn new tasks! Some of my favorite tasks were calling other companies, editing the prospect sheet, or visiting stores in person to promote the brand with Alyssa. It’s been a good internship because I don't stay in front of my computer all day, I can switch my tasks and do different things. Everyday had new challenges and tasks.
In what ways do you feel like your experience in San Diego has changed you?
I think this experience changed the image I have about myself. Now if I want to try something different I try it without fear. I’m not afraid about the judgement of other people. It also permitted me to grow my ambition for my career and I think I found my way.
Where do you get your style inspiration?
I find inspiration in fashion within myself and my own ideas, I use it as a form of Self- Expression! Before I get dresses, I think about each situation ahead, and it's easy for me to put different styles together to create a new outfit. I have always had an interest in fashion, but I was sometimes afraid to try it out, and experiment with different looks in France.
What has Lotus and Luna introduced to you style wise?
Lotus and Luna is a very good company with good products, and a lot of variety! Before I worked with this company, I had never bought accessories and now I have a lot of bracelets, necklaces, caps and sunglasses that complete my outfit, so yes this internship has improved both my english and my style.
Do you ever see yourself coming back to America after finishing your degree?
Sure, I have a project to have one au pair year again next year, to improve my english and became bilingual. Maybe I will stay here after to continue my courses. I’ve wanted to build my life in this country since I was 8 or 9 years old so yes, I hope that next time I come it is for good!
What are your aspirations career wise?
I don’t have a specific job in mind but now I know I want to have a job in an international business, so that I can use each language I speak. I like to have interact with customers in physical store and over the phone, calling retailers to promote the brand, that’s why Lotus and Luna has been a good company to work with.
Written by: Shyanne Stewart
Are you interested in becoming a Lotus and Luna intern? Send us your resume, and tell us why via email: info@lotusandluna.com
Thank you for reading our blog! Use code QUENTIN for 15% off your next purchase!
Lava Stone
Symbols of Lava Stone
Strength, Clarity, Cleansing, Calming, Stability, Protection, and Guidance
We love Lava Stone here at Lotus and Luna! Not only is it a gorgeous gift from Mother Earth, but it's also a powerful healing tool and can even be a portable essential oil diffuser everywhere you go! Its healing properties have a deep-rooted history, just like the stone itself, coming from the depths of the Earth.
Lava Stone is one of the most abundant minerals on Earth, forming when the gasses in magma start to solidify and harden into rock under intense heat and pressure. And because it comes from raw energy, it’s considered to be the stone of rebirth and renewal helping those who wear it shed unnecessary emotions and unhealthy attachments. It is most famous for the powerful grounding and calming properties that can guide us through change with strength and clarity. Lava Stone has your back through it all!
Due to its powerful connection to Earth, Lava Stone is believed to be a symbol of fertility, endurance and strength. Wearing this powerful little stone is also believed to allow the wearer to access energy without resistance, paving the way to a clear flow of energy from Earth which heals the wearer both physically and spiritually.
Many believe that Lava Stone is best for stabilizing the Base Chakra because of its strong connection to the raw inner Earth. When your Base Chakra is stabilized you feel more safe, anchored and therefore able to emulate more positivity! If you’re going through a harder time or need some guidance, try wearing a Lava Stone anklet or bracelet to help you along the way!
Lava Stone is an amazing aromatherapy essential oil diffuser as well! Simply add a few drops of any essential oil to your Lava Stone and enjoy the combined therapeutic benefits of both! Try Lavender essential oils to help reduce anxiety and relieve stress or use Lemon essential oils to help give you more positive and healthy energy throughout the day!
Even though the precious Lava Stone isn’t a traditional birthstone, if you’re a Taurus or Cancer you can claim this as your Zodiac Stone!
Use code LAVALOVE to get 30% off any of our Lava Stone products!
Our staff at Lotus and Luna love using essential oils in our Lava Stone jewelry and highly recommend you try it out! We can't give enough love to Lava!
Written by Kaylee Bustamante
Fun Fact: Native Americans would wear a piece of Lava Stone before going into battle, as it was believed the stone’s energy would bring them courage and strength. Which is why the stone is more common amongst men’s jewelry. Next time a man or woman in your life needs an extra boost, give them a powerful Lava Stone bracelet!
Jade: A Powerful Beauty
Symbols of Jade:
Harmony · Humanity · Intelligence · Power · Protection · Luck · Prosperity · Strength · Guidance · Peace · Balance · Beauty
The vibrant stone Jade has been a very special stone to Asian cultures for thousands of years, in art, jewelry, religious practices and ceremonial life. It has long been believed that Jade attracts good luck, brings balance to the Heart Chakra, and increases prosperity. What a powerful little stone! It is also a protective stone, often used by travelers to keep them safe from harm. Take a Jade bracelet with you on all of your wanderlust journeys!
Many believe that this magical gem holds a link between the physical and spiritual worlds, encompassing the yin and the yang. Wearing a Jade bracelet or necklace can help guide you into balance! It's connected to the Heart Chakra and should be kept in contact with your skin to balance the body and align the chakras. Keep it close to your heart for the most benefits! In meditation, Jade imparts a feeling of serenity, soothes and calms the mind, and assists in the release of negative thoughts. Try wearing Jade to your next yoga class!
Jade has a rich cultural history as well! The polish and brilliance of the stone is considered by the Chinese to be representative of purity while its compactness and hardness reflect intelligence. Justice is represented by its angles and the sound produced by it when it is struck is a symbol of music. The color of Jade stone depicts loyalty while its flaws reflect sincerity. The Chinese also value Jade because of its brightness, representing heaven, while its substance is representative of the earth. You can see why Jade is so cherished; it's a beautiful stone with a beautiful meaning behind it!
On a physical level, Jade has a powerful and calming vibration that’s highly protective. Whenever you feel the need to recharge your energy or protect yourself from illness, try stroking the stone with your hands!
Jade's colors can range in abundance of shades -- from light creamy greens to much darker tones; even in greyish, white, pink, purple, yellow, black and multicolored. This stone not only has a wide range of healing properties, but is also a beautiful creation of nature! We're celebrating this gorgeous Jade stone all month with 20% off all of our Jade products through March!
Click here to shop our Jade collection!
Fun Fact: Emperors used to drink a mixture of pounded jade and herbs in an attempt to become immortal!
Written by Micaela Ideker
Achieve your New Year’s Resolutions with Style!
There’s always time for self-improvement, but a New Year is all the more motivating and full of opportunities! It’s your time to take action and achieve the goals you set out to do. Our natural energy stones can help you out on your journey to success! If your resolutions are anything like ours, here’s some tips and healing stones that will help make yours goals happen!
Science has proven that human beings have between 12,000 and 60,000 thoughts per day. Whoa! Even more surprising is that 80% of those thoughts are negative! Being nice to ourselves can be a real challenge, but it has been proven that self-kindness reduces stress and elevates mood. Providing ourselves with patience, acceptance, and care can often be foreign to us, but with practice, your nurturing voice will be the first one you hear instead of the blaring critic. Self-kindness involves being tolerant of our flaws and inadequacies and realizing that suffering, failure, and imperfection is part of the shared human experience.
If your goal this year is to be kinder to yourself, try wearing these healing stones. Rhodolite encourages compassion while promoting self-worth and spiritual growth. Rhodonite is a calming stone that helps resolve conflict and promotes self love and compassion. It is also a remedy stone during times of panic.
Here’s some tips to go from inner-critic to inner-cheerleader! Give yourself more compliments, out loud. Learn how to forgive yourself; you're doing your best and nobody is perfect. Practice gratitude - a powerful emotion with scientifically proven benefits. Be a best friend to yourself. Give yourself permission to say no. Accept compliments. Create positive affirmations.
Human beings are inherently social creatures. Friendships offer a number of mental health benefits, such as increased feelings of belonging, purpose, increased levels of happiness, reduced levels of stress, and improved self-worth and confidence. Forming strong, healthy relationships with others means opening up, actively listening, and being willing to sharing what you’re going through. Being proactive is important if your looking to nourish your social connections this year.
If your goal this year is to strengthen your relationships between your friends, family, or significant other, try wearing Rose Quartz to help purify and open the heart. Those who hold Agate near their heart or wear the stone in jewelry will notice new friendships, lovers, and rebirth of old relationships. Some great ways to jumpstart the social butterfly in you are finding a hobby, establishing a weekly movie night with your besties, volunteering with a group that interests you, interacting with coworkers outside of the workplace, and inviting and being open to invitations as they come your way. If you're in a new town or just want to start fresh, try Bumble BFF!
Do you struggle with staying in the present? It’s so easy to be distracted with what’s next, occupied with the past, or overloaded with information. Staying aware of your mind and body can be difficult, but the benefits to your wellbeing are worth it. Mindfulness is shown to improve sleep, reduce stress, and improve focus.
So what is mindfulness? It’s an active practice of being present of where you are, what you’re doing, and what you’re thinking in the moment. The goal is not to quiet the mind, but instead to be aware of the thoughts that pass through and let them come and go without judgement. Your mind will wander, but that’s natural. Allow yourself to consciously come back to your breath, notice the sounds around you and the sensations of your body. It’s all about returning your attention again and again.
To add a little enhancement to your mindfulness practice try wearing Tourmaline or Howlite. Tourmaline is believed to promote communication between the conscious and unconscious minds, allowing psychic awareness to blossom, while Howlite has long been recognized for its ability to reduce anxiety and enhance mental awareness.
The most common New Year’s resolutions involve dieting and exercising! While these are important, there is so much more to taking care of our bodies. If your resolution this year is to be healthier, try wearing Jasper as it combats exhaustion, providing energy and promoting reflection. Or try Quartz, the “Master Healer”, provides healing and spiritual growth.
Physical health can really affect happiness and stress levels. Making a commitment to taking on healthier habits this year can have a far-reaching payoff: you’ll feel better in everything you do. Along with diet and exercise, here’s some more ways you can take care of your body everyday! Drink plenty of water. Stretch every morning. Create a good sleep routine. Take Epsom salt baths. Write in a journal. Watch your posture. Use essential oils. Wash your hands often. Keep laughing and playing!
We wish you good luck with all of your resolutions this year!
Thank you for reading our blog!
Use code RESOLUTION for 15% off your next order + Share it on Facebook for a secret bonus!
Written by: Micaela Ideker
White Chocolate Peppermint Fudge
Who doesn’t enjoy fudge? A fun way to build your holiday spirit this time of year is to take a little time to bake something delicious. This recipe for peppermint fudge is simple, festive, and tasty.
64 servings
Per Serving: 89 calories; 2.9 g fat; 14.1 g carbohydrates; 1.1 g protein
Prep 20min/ Ready 2hrs 20min
Ingredients
2 (10oz) packages of vanilla baking chips
1 (14oz) can sweetened condensed milk
½ teaspoon peppermint extract
1 ½ cups of crushed candy canes
1 dash of red/green food coloring
Directions
- Line an 8 inch square baking pan with aluminum foil and grease the foil.
- Combine the vanilla chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat. Stir frequently until almost melted, remove from heat and continue to stir until smooth. When chips are completely melted, stir in the peppermint extract, food coloring, and candy canes.
- Spread evenly in the bottom of the prepared pan. Chill for 2 hours, then cut into squares.
Tip
Aluminum foil can be used to keep food moist, cook it evenly, and make clean-up easier.
By Cameron Godbehere
World Kindness Day
8 Little Gestures to Make Someone’s Day
On Tuesday, November 13, 2018, we celebrated World Kindness Day here at Lotus and Luna. It is essential for all of us to be kind to each other, especially during a time when it feels like everyone is more divisive than ever. There are little things we can do as people, little acts of kindness, that can make someone’s day. Being kind also makes us feel better about ourselves too. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or someone in line behind you at Starbucks, here are 8 little gestures of kindness to make someone’s day.
1. Pay It Forward
If you find yourself in line at your local coffee shop or in the drive-thru at IN-N-OUT, a simple gesture you can do to express kindness and generosity is to pay it forward. Simply cover the cost of the coffee behind you. It is only a few dollars to do and will really brighten someone’s mood. Who knows, they might start a chain and cover the person behind them too!
2. Compliments
I don’t know about you but who doesn’t feel good when somebody out of the blue goes ahead and compliments your hair, your clothes, or something you did. Go ahead and compliment somebody, make them feel good about themselves.
3. Talk to a Friend You Haven’t Heard from in a Long Time
Doesn’t it feel good when an old friend hits you up just to see how you are doing? Extend the gesture and find a friend or two that you have lost touch with and let them know you were thinking about them. It’s a nice way to reconnect and show someone what they mean to you.
4. Bring Sweets to Someone
Surprise your coworkers with a sweet snack! Who doesn’t appreciate a cookie or a brownie to brighten their day? Stop by the grocery store a spend a few bucks getting your significant other, your parents, your friend, or your boss a little sweet treat!
5. Tip the Bill
One nice thing to do for someone is to show a little appreciation for the man or woman that is waiting your table. Simply tip the price of the bill. If you find yourself eating a cheap lunch with a friend for $15, just match the bill by tipping $15. If you have the means to do so, give it a try, it won’t hurt.
6. Hold the Door
We have all been there, awkwardly walking faster to catch the door that someone didn’t hold open. Wouldn’t it have been nice if someone was holding that door for you? If you see somebody behind you, hold open the door! It's easy and very sweet to do.
7. Send Flowers
You don’t have to be a guy for this one. Does your mom appreciate flowers? Send her some! Or send some to a friend or coworker who would gladly accept.
8. Show Yourself Some Kindness
We can’t forget about ourselves! Feeling overworked lately? Take a day off or find an hour to do something you appreciate. Find a friend or family member and plan something special with them. You could even make yourself something yummy that you don’t normally have.
by Cameron Godbehere
Stella the Light's
1.
Easy, long-lasting weight loss.
This was one of the main reasons I came to this lifestyle. I had no idea what veganism was but had heard/seen of several women who were all about 5-10 years deep in the “plant-based whole foods lifestyle”, looked amazing, felt amazing and claimed to be eating abundantly and freely.. I wanted in!! Within the first few weeks, you will drop inflammation/digestion issues and gain energy and clarity! You will absolutely crave movement. My body has changed not only from the foods I eat but the energy I now have to move my body in such crazy ways! That pure energy and craving for movement never gets old! Weight loss/optimal body weight comes naturally, easily and with no restriction .. and it lasts (no RE- gaining the weight you lost while low-calorie dieting!)
2.
Amazing digestion.
We all know how depleting poor digestion is. It lays a blanket of anxiety on us and makes you want to hide in a big sweatshirt away from the world. Bloat, indigestion, gas, constipation, heartburn .. it all just STINKS! The increase in fiber alongside proper food combining and the detoxing from poorly digested meat/dairy = a flowing, clean digestive tract! Within the first 2/3 weeks of consistency, you will feel the body flowing with ease! Most of my own clients lose anywhere from 5-15 lbs just from dropping the bloat, inflammation and digestive sludge that has been backing them up. I used to think going to the bathroom 2/3 times per week was normal. I now go at least 1-2x per day with ease (no scary poos! LOL)3.
You get to eat way more food!
Meat/dairy and junk food are very calorie dense foods — hence why we have to set limits/portions for these foods. Luckily, plant-based foods can be eaten in abundance due to their low caloric density! I will pop a photo in here to give you a more visual idea of what I mean! PHOTO HERE. By cutting the animal fat, fatty breast milk and refined junk from your diet you are able to eat 2-4x the portions of what you are eating now! Which never gets old!
4.
Saving 75% of your money.
This is not a trick! Think about how you eat now - How many times do you eat out? How many times do you stop and grab takeout, fast food, snacks, drinks etc. How much is your current grocery bill with pre-packaged items? This all adds up to $1000s!
By going plant-based I save about 3/4 the $$ I used to spend on food. Explained: We ate out at LEAST 2-3x for dinner and 2-3x for lunch, we got snacks to go all the time and our grocery bill was full of expensive meat/dairy and pre-packaged items! Now we prep most of our food ourselves and the foods we buy at the grocery store are essentially the cheapest: rice, oatmeal, potatoes, seasonal fruits etc! Take a look at how much you are spending on food - imagine how much money you could save all while amplifying your health and happiness!
5.
Biggest impact on the environment!
Did you know that if the world went vegan we could reduce our carbon footprint by up to 73% and reduce greenhouse gas emissions by two thirds! .. that’s a pretty big deal! This was another perk I knew nothing about when going plant-based, the fact that I could make such a difference with such ease. It is one of the best feelings in the world to know I am helping to bring this planet back from the damage it has sustained over the years from us being so careless!
If you are interested in learning the ins and outs of this lifestyle, let’s get you started! Visit StellaTheLight.com for more info on my 30 and 7 Day Coaching Programs, E-Books, Client Reviews, Recipe Blog, Free 14 Day Group Challenge + much more!
Tell me YOUR story, goals, struggles, current eating habits and why you wanna go plant-based!
SPAGHETTI + (no)MEATBALLS!
These are a favorite with my vegan partner, Damon. He has them not only with pasta and sauce but will also dip them in ketchup or bbq sauce! They can be made in bulk (double or triple the recipe) and frozen in an airtight container .. the perfect meal prep for easy, very cheap dinners! + the comparison of a high saturated animal fat meatball vs these is crazy! Jam-packed with protein just no animal flesh, fat or cholesterol! + you can have double or triple the amount of meatballs because they aren’t as calorie dense as a normal meatball! (Goes along with the perks of eating more as a plant-based vegan!!)
Ingredients:
-
1 15oz can of organic black beans (or kidney beans work, too!)
-
2 cup oats
-
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
-
1.5 tbsp ground flax
-
2 tsp garlic (or to taste)
-
1 tsp salt (can omit)
-
a few dashes of liquid smoke OR 1 tsp smoked paprika
-
about 2 tbsp italian herb mix
-
bread crumbs (optional)
NOTE: Feel free to saute up some onions, carrots, mushrooms etc and add into the mix.. this gives it a very textured meatball which is lovely!
Instructions:
-
Pre-heat oven to 425 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper!
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Blend oats + ground flax in a blender or food processor until it becomes less oats but not exactly a fine powder — you want to leave some texture in there!
-
Set aside in a big bowl + add the spices (herbs, nutritional yeast, garlic, salt and smoked paprika if you’re using that!)
-
Rinse beans and pop in a vitamix OR food processor and blend until smooth (add in liquid smoke if you are using that)
-
Add this mixture to the dry ingredients and mix thoroughly (mix in any sautéed veggies as well!)
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Roll into small balls and roll in breadcrumbs (or not!) and lay evenly on parchment paper.
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Bake in the oven at 425F for 5 min (flip) and another 5 min on the other side!
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Serve with wholesome pasta + sauce of choice (we make our own using the recipe from my ebook!) Pastas we use: Corn pasta, Quinoa pasta, Rice Pasta, Bean Pasta, Lentil Pasta, Whole Wheat Pasta.
by Stella the Light
Thai Pumpkin Curry Recipe
Happy Halloween, witches!
No better way to get in the spooky spirit than to whip up a healthy, vegan, pumpkin curry to counteract all that candy we know you’ll be eating! ;) This recipe is a simple yet satisfying plant-based, gluten-free, festive meal to enjoy this spooky season.
**Note: To be cooked with monster mash playing softly in the background and paired with lots of Halloween candy ;)
Serves: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ Tbsp coconut oil
- 1/2 yellow onion
- 2 Tbsp minced fresh ginger
- 1 Tbsp minced garlic
- 1 small red chili or serrano pepper (stem & seeds removed, thinly sliced)
- 1 large red bell pepper (thinly sliced lengthwise)
- 4 Tbsp red Thai curry paste
- 4 cups or 1 lb peeled and cubed pumpkin or butternut squash
- 3 ½ cups unsweetened coconut milk--the thicker the better
- 2 Tbsp maple syrup
- 1 tsp ground turmeric
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 Tbsp soy sauce
- 2 Tbsp lime
- ⅔ cup roasted cashews
- ¼ cup fresh basil for garnish
- Jasmine rice, brown rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
Instructions:
- Add coconut oil, onion, ginger, garlic, and chili to large pot. Saute for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
- Add bell pepper and curry paste and stir. Cook for two minutes, then add the pumpkin/butternut squash and stir. Cook for 2 minutes.
- Add coconut milk, maple syrup, turmeric, sea salt, soy sauce, and stir. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
- Once simmering, slightly reduce heat to low and cover.
- Cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Once the pumpkin is tender, add lime juice and cashews and cover, simmer for 3-4 additional minutes over low heat.
- Serve over rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice.
- Garnish with basil and enjoy!
Making a Difference - An update from the villages
Why hello there! My name is Ashley and I am the designer for Lotus and Luna. In the spirit of National Make a Difference Day, I wanted to remind you all that you were born with the ability to make a difference, and that even the smallest action can create a ripple effect of positive change and growth. Here at Lotus and Luna, our action is supporting and empowering our artisan villages with consistent work they love, a more comfortable life, and lessons in business.
Personally, I have the unique and fulfilling privilege of travelling all the way to Thailand to work with our talented artisans and sharing their beautiful creations with all of you. Having the opportunity to see first hand how our impact has improved their local economies and overall quality of life is one that I never take for granted, and that reinvigorates and inspires me with every visit. Here is a little update from my most recent trip, where I worked on our upcoming Spring/Summer '19 Collections.
This past trip was a quick one - two weeks in Chiang Mai. I always stay in the old city, which is about an hour away from both of the two villages I visit. One is in Doi Saket and the other is in Mae Rim.
I spent most of my days in the jewelry village working with our head artisan, Rung. She is one amazing boss lady who taught her entire family and village how to bead. She makes sure that all of our production runs smoothly and that each bracelet is made with precision and care.
Bead by bead, I design each bracelet with a particular collection's theme in mind. When I finish laying out the design, Rung assigns an artisan to make the sample. Physically being in Thailand and communicating with them directly makes this process a lot easier than doing it from overseas on a different time zone. A few of the artisans are even picking up some English through this process, so as I teach them English words, they teach me a little Thai and then we all giggle at our mispronunciations!
My favorite part of the day is lunch time when we get to have a home-cooked Thai meal made by Rung's mother or the artisans will take me to their favorite local spots.
After many days of creating the designs and samples, our collections are laid out and finalized. Rung then assigns each artisan a bracelet design along with the materials needed and they are able to make each bracelet from the comfort of their own home. Although we may only have five to ten artisans working with us at Rung's there is a constant flow of artisans coming and going on their scooters to pick up materials and deliver finished bracelets - it's really fun to watch!
Now, let's take a journey into our Apparel Village. Below are two artisans that manage production of all our apparel lines.
Watini is one of the most talented seamstresses I've ever come across. She works extremely hard to provide for her daughter who attends a university in Bangkok and for her 14 year-old son with special needs.
Wilawan is one of Lotus and Luna's first artisans! She helps translate and communicate with our artisans who do not speak English. Sometimes I think she cracks jokes about me in Thai and then translates something completely different back to me--it's pretty hilarious!
It is always such a humbling experience spending time with the artisans. I meet their families, watch their children grow, we share stories over delicious meals, and most importantly we learn from one another. Getting to know our artisans on a personal level is a strong reminder of why we do what we do. Their culture, world views, and keys to happiness are so different than ours, and with each visit I become inspired in a new way.
Also on each trip, I am able to see the direct impact Lotus and Luna has made in the lives of these villagers. This time, I noticed Watini had bought some more updated and comfortable furniture for her home (it was previously very minimal), a new sewing machine, and she even told us she is saving money to buy a new house for her family. Through fundraising and increased wages in the village, Watini is working towards building a new, safer road in this village, something we take for granted here in the USA.
Rung's village started with one small order of a couple hundred singles, which she made all by herself. In 2018 as a whole, that order is about five hundred times the size, and employs roughly sixty five people full time. Imagine one artisan- Rung- making our order- to 65 staff in her villages all working together, but from the comfort of their homes, surrounded by their families. A few short years ago, these same artisans were working long hours, sometimes late into the night, selling their goods one by one at the markets, or working hard in the rice fields.
Seeing how these people are directly benefiting from our company mission is an amazing feeling that I cannot begin to explain. From small house improvements, to new roads and an ever-growing team, we are humbly honored to be changing lives. In all honestly, my life has changed as well. Being out in Thailand I picked up a new sport that I absolutely fell in love with, Muay Thai--which I've continued to do even back in the states. I wake up every morning grateful for my health, friends, and family, and also for being able to do something that I love that actually makes a difference in someone's life.
With that being said, I want to thank you...Without you, Lotus and Luna would not be able to make a difference in so many people's lives. So I'll be sure to keep doing my best in creating designs you love and we can work together in building this new cycle for these amazing artisans.
