Skip to content

Uncategorized

Lemon Zinger Cookies

 

The holidays are here and so are gatherings with many temptations!  It’s okay to indulge…occasionally.  When treating yourself to those yummy goodies, try to choose those with better quality ingredients, and of course, moderate consumption.  This recipe is a tasty treat with plenty of options that exclude food coloring, preservatives and other chemicals.  It’s sure to be a hit at your next gathering!

Ingredients:

Cookies:

2  1/2  cups organic all purpose flour

1   tsp  baking powder, aluminum free

1   tsp sea salt

1   stick unsalted organic butter, softened, but not melted

2   cups organic granulated sugar

2   organic eggs

1   15-oz container organic whole milk ricotta cheese

3   tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from approximately 1 lemon)

1   tablespoon lemon extract, I like the Simply Organics brand

Glaze:

1  1/2  cups organic powdered sugar, sifted to avoid lumpy icing

3   tablespoons fresh lemon juice (from approximately 1 lemon)

1   tablespoon lemon extract, I like the Simply Organics brand

1/2 tsp food based yellow food coloring

 

 

Directions:

Cookies: 

  • Preheat oven to 375 degrees F.
  • In a medium bowl, combine the flour, baking powder and salt.  Set aside.
  • In a large bowl, combine the butter and sugar.  Using an electric mixer, beat the butter and sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.
  • Add the eggs, 1 at a time, beating until incorporated.  Add the ricotta cheese, lemon juice and lemon extract.  Beat to combine. 
  • Stir in the dry ingredients.
  • Line 2 baking sheets with unbleached parchment paper. 
  • Spoon approximately 1 tablespoon of dough onto the baking sheets, leaving about 1” in between.  
  • Bake for 15-17 minutes, until the edges are golden.
  • Remove from oven and transfer to cooling rack.  Allow to rest until cool to the touch before applying icing.

 

Glaze:

  • Combine the powdered sugar, lemon juice, lemon extract and yellow food color in a small bowl and whisk until smooth.
  • Spoon about 1/2-1 tsp onto each cookie and use the back of the spoon to gently spread.
  • Let the glaze harden for about 2 hours before packing into a container.

Notes and Tips:

Be sure to leave yourself at least 2 hours for making the cookies.   The cookies must cool before adding the glaze or it will melt right off, I know from experience.   Once you add the glaze, they need to set at least 2 hours before stacking them so the glaze doesn’t stick to the cookies stacked on top. When I’m packing them up to take to a party, I place a sheet of unbleached wax paper in between layers to prevent them from sticking together.

I tried 2 different types of ricotta and here is what I learned:

The Whole Foods ricotta cookies spread out, which makes for easier application of the glaze. 

The Publix Greenwise organic ricotta made cookies that stood up higher and looked almost like little biscuits.  This made application of the glaze a bit more challenging since the tops of the cookies had some small peaks.

They both tasted the same, so it’s just a matter of preference.

Food based food coloring can be found at most natural foods groceries.  If you a want lighter colored glaze, use 1/4 tsp food coloring instead.  You need to use some amount of coloring because the lemon juice will prevent the sugar from making a pure white icing.

When applying the icing, work quick because the icing starts to harden.  If it becomes too thick, simply add about 1/2-1 tsp of warm water to the bowl and whisk again to the right consistency.

One batch makes approximately 50 cookies.  You can also double this recipe, which I highly recommend because they will disappear fast! 

Enjoy!  In moderation, of course.  🙂

 

 

 

 

 

Caroline Faxas, AP, Dipl Ac, provides services related to Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. She is conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Cooper City, Davie, Plantation, Southwest Ranches, Weston, Sunrise, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood, Dania Beach and Hallandale Beach.

Office Will Be Closed Until March 30

To our OM Holistic Wellness Family,

 

After much deliberation and meditation on what to do, I have decided to follow CDC guidelines and close the office for 2 weeks.  Oriental Medicine and Massage therapy can support the immune system, however it is too risky for all of us to be in close contact for an extended period of time.

Based on the elusive nature of the virus, we must be diligent in protecting ourselves and those we care about.  You have probably been made aware that there has been transmission of the virus in some individuals that haven’t even started showing symptoms. This is why social distancing and staying home when possible is so important.

Although you may have a strong immune system, you could become infected and become a carrier of the virus.  It is possible that  you could pass it on to someone who is high risk and they could become extremely ill and need hospitalization.  Those that are high risk include those with lung illness (COPD, emphysema, etc.), heart disease, diabetes and any other condition that might compromise the immune system.

We all have a responsibility to our communities.  By practicing social distancing, the goal is to reduce the rate of infection to others and to prevent our hospitals from being overwhelmed.  For those that do become severely ill, we want to ensure they receive the best care in a timely manner.

So, let’s protect ourselves and those we care about so that life can get back to normal as soon as possible.

I’ve included some tips below to keep you healthy and calm.  I will be available via phone, text or email throughout the next 2 weeks so don’t hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.  I’m here to support you during this challenging time.

 

To support your immune system, you can take the following:

Note: Many of you have registered for an account at www.954herbs.com.  If you still need to do so, use the code “chiwellness” when setting up an account so you can have supplements delivered directly to you.

500mg Vitamin C, repeat 3 times daily.  If you feel ill, you can take it 4 times daily if you can tolerate it.  Too much vitamin C can cause gassiness or loose stool.

5000 iu Vitamin D3 daily.  If you feel ill, you can take 10,000 iu daily divided into 2 doses.

25mg Zinc.  If you feel ill, you can take 25mg twice daily.

Other herbs that can help (There are more out there.  This is not an all-inclusive list):

Oregano oil

Elderberry

Echinacea – If you have allergies to ragweeds, you’ll want to avoid this one because it’s part of the ragweed family.

Astragalus

Food Therapy:

You can increase consumption of raw crushed garlic, fresh ginger and the white part of the scallions for a natural immune boost.

You can make a tea as a preventive or if you start to feel ill.  See https://www.omholisticwellness.com/acupuncture-cold-flu-recipe-vegan-cold-buster-tea/

You can substitute chicken broth for the vegetable broth if you’d like.  This can also be used as a base for other soups.  Feel free to add more vegetables or chicken.

Stress Relief:

Meditation

Yoga – Check with your studio to see if they offer online or private classes.  There are online resources where you can follow a pre-recorded class.

Mantras – If you are feeling anxious or worried, redirect those thoughts into something positive to calm the mind.  Some examples:

“I am calm and I am strong”

“I am peaceful.  I am healthy”

Breathing Exercises:

Practice slowly inhaling and exhaling.  Be sure to fill your lungs as much as you can and empty them as much as you can.

You can also take a walk through your neighborhood.  Spend time on your patio or in your yard.  Being in nature or watching nature – birds, butterflies, etc., can be very calming.

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Cupping and Massage Therapy. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Aventura, North Miami, Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Pembroke Pines, Davie and Plantation.

Calming Your Concerns


 

I’ve received many inquiries about how we can protect ourselves and our loved ones from COVID-19, commonly referred to as Coronavirus. Coronaviruses have been around for a long time and are one of the causes of the common cold. (1) COVID-19 is a new coronavirus that is causing concern because of the way in which it is spreading and the severity of symptoms that might arise.
PREVENTION:
Everyone should be diligent in taking the same precautions that we would normally take to avoid contracting the common cold or influenza.
There is currently no vaccine for COVID-19. The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus. The CDC recommends everyday preventive actions to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.
  • Avoid close contact with people who are sick.
  • Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth.
  • Stay home when you are sick.
  • Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.
  • Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.
  • Follow CDC’s recommendations for using a facemask.
  • CDC does not recommend that people who are well wear a facemask to protect themselves from respiratory diseases, including COVID-19.
  • Facemasks should be used by people who show symptoms of COVID-19 to help prevent the spread of the disease to others. The use of facemasks is also crucial for health workers and people who are taking care of someone in close settings, like at home or in a health care facility.
  • Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after going to the bathroom; before eating; and after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
  • If soap and water are not readily available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Always wash hands with soap and water if hands are visibly dirty. (2)
If you sing Happy Birthday twice while washing your hands, you will have washed them for approximately 20 seconds.
If you are more of a visual learner, this video, https://youtu.be/LWmok9avzr4, educates you on what to use to wash your hands, when to wash your hands, etc. At approximately 2 minutes, you will see the proper technique to wash your hands effectively. At approximately 6 minutes 30 seconds, there is a demonstration as to which method likely removes germs the most effectively. (3)
MEASURES TAKEN AT OM HOLISTIC WELLNESS:
In order to continue providing a safe and sanitary environment for everyone, please make note of the following.
If you have a fever combined with a cough and/or sneezing, it is best for you to stay at home. I am able to conduct consultations via phone or video chat to evaluate your symptoms and to determine the proper course of treatment. If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me. My goal is to protect you and anyone else that comes into our office from the spread of illness.
At OM Holistic Wellness, we are continuing the same infection control protocols that have always been in place. All surfaces such as headrests, hand rests on the treatment tables, pagers, credit card processing tablets, door knobs, etc. are disinfected after each client. Air purifiers with HEPA filters are constantly running in several rooms in the office. The air conditioning air filter is the highest rating for filtering out microscopic particles. Aerosol disinfectant is also utilized.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES:
If you would like to stay updated on any developments, be sure you are utilizing a reliable, trusted resource. Some examples:
I hope you find this information useful. Please take the proper precautions to protect yourself and your loved ones from all respiratory viruses and bacteria. If you are sick, please take precaution to prevent the spread of illness to others.
Knowledge is power. Feel free to pass this newsletter on to educate others on how to prevent the spread of respiratory viruses.
Be well!
References:
  1. Tyrrell, D and Myint, S; Medical Microbiology, 4th Edition; Chapter 60; (1996); Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK7782/
  2. Florida Department of Health (2020); Retrieved from http://www.floridahealth.gov/diseases-and-conditions/COVID-19/need-to-know/Prevention.html
  3. Centers for Disease Control (2016); Retrieved from https://youtu.be/LWmok9avzr4
Additional Support
In addition to the techniques mentioned above, there are other things you can do to help nourish your immune system. It’s important to maintain a healthy diet, exercise and obtain restful sleep.
I prefer for everyone to obtain proper nutrition from food sources, however, if you are not able to do so, supplements can be helpful.
Some basic vitamins you can utilize to support your immune system:
500mg Vitamin C, repeated 3 times daily
Vitamin D3, 5000 iu daily
Several other vitamins, nutrients and herbs can also support the immune system. There are so many to choose from and each person may have different needs. If you would like a custom recommendation, contact me and I will be happy to help.
You can shop at your convenience at our online dispensary at www.954herbs.com. If you have not set up an account, you can click on the button below and use the code “chiwellness” so you will receive the client discount.

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Cupping and Massage Therapy. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Aventura, North Miami, Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Pembroke Pines, Davie and Plantation.

Breast Thermography will be available October 15!

With October being Breast Cancer Awareness month, we are making thermography available for one day only – Tuesday, October 15.  Stephanie from Breast Thermography Orlando will be in the office and available for consultations or thermography sessions.  Thermography is a noninvasive tool that uses an infrared camera to produce images (thermograms) that show the patterns of heat and blood flow on or near the surface of the body.  Many women use thermography in between mammograms as an additional detection tool.  Full body scans are available as well, so this is not just for the ladies!

 

Schedule your appointment now via email or phone!

Email: stephaniepiercelmt@gmail.com

Phone: 321-230-8694

 

 

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine, Cupping and Massage Therapy. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Surfside, Aventura, North Miami, Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Pembroke Pines, Davie and Plantation.

Healthy Foods for Fall

traditional chinese medicine foods for fall

The season of fall brings cooler weather and shorter days. As with any season, the world adjusts accordingly. Plants begin to go dormant, animals begin scrounging for food to store to get them through the upcoming winter months and humans start winterizing everything.

As fall descends on the land, it reminds us we need to start cutting back on the numerous cooling foods that are consumed during the summer months. Things like raw foods, salads, juices and fruits should be decreased because they can create too much cold in the body, according to traditional Chinese medicine. continue reading »

Five Reasons to Get Acupuncture for Low Back Pain

Statistics show eight out of 10 people will experience low back pain at some point during their life. Seeking medical treatment for back pain is very common. Typically back pain is fleeting and can be easily resolved with rest, heat and an occasional anti-inflammatory like ibuprofen. However, once the damage is done, the recurrence of back pain can be as high as 50 percent. Part of this is because as we age, things like muscles and tendons become less flexible and pliable. It is also very well known in the United States, people are too sedentary and this leads to excess weight gain that can create added pressure on the body, especially the low back. continue reading »

Over-the-Counter Product Recalls That May Affect You

OM Holistic Wellness strives to educate consumers on health and wellness.  There seems to be a trend of many over-the-counter nasal sprays being recalled.  OM Holistic Wellness has never sold any of these products, but we want you to be aware of the issue in case you or your loved ones have purchased these items at popular retailers.

 

Ocean Nasal Spray:

https://www.miamiherald.com/living/health-fitness/article218955015.html

 

CVS Nasal Spray:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/2018/08/10/cvs-health-nasal-mist-spray-recall/956355002/

https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls/ucm618803.htm

 

King Bio:

https://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2018/08/30/king-bio-homeopathic-drug-recall-expanded/1142161002/

 

MediNatura:

http://medinatura.com/recall-information

 

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides Acupuncture, Oriental Medicine and massage therapy. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Aventura, North Miami, Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Dania Beach, Pembroke Pines, Davie and Plantation.

30 Simple Ways to Eat Healthier – Tip #12

Tip #12   Share dessert or choose fruit instead.

Having a sweet tooth craving?  Choose desserts that come in smaller portions to avoid consuming excess calories.  Fruit is an excellent alternative to desserts made with processed sugars.  Do you feel that your cravings are controlling you?  Acupuncture can help!  Call 888-321-0661 today!

 

We all know we should eat healthier, but for some the task can seem overwhelming.  Making small changes can have a tremendous impact on our overall health.  Follow this Healthy Tips Series to learn 30 simple ways to make positive changes in your diet.  To have a custom nutritional analysis and game plan set up for you, call 888-321-0661 to schedule your consultation today!   Cheers to a healthier you!

Author: Caroline G. Faxas, AP, Dipl Ac

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Aventura, North Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Davie and Plantation.

30 Simple Ways to Eat Healthier – Tip #7

Tip #7 Eat beans or tofu instead of meat.

Additional sources of dietary protein are whole grains, nuts, seeds, nut butters, tempeh and protein powders.  Not everyone needs to maintain a vegetarian diet.  If you choose to eat meat, be sure to choose lean meats such as cage free chicken, turkey and leaner cuts of grass fed beef.  Fish is also a great source of protein and omega fatty acids.

When eating tofu and other soy products, my preference is to choose products that are non-GMO.

 

We all know we should eat healthier, but for some the task can seem overwhelming.  Making small changes can have a tremendous impact on our overall health.  Follow this Healthy Tips Series to learn 30 simple ways to make positive changes in your diet.  To have a custom nutritional analysis and game plan set up for you, call 888-321-0661 to schedule your consultation today!   Cheers to a healthier you!

 

Author: Caroline G. Faxas, AP, Dipl Ac

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Aventura, North Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Davie and Plantation.

30 Simple Ways to Eat Healthier – Tip #6

Tip #6  Use less butter, and cut back on added fats or oils in cooking.

Eventually, you should use very little, if any, oil in cooking.  Use vegetable or chicken stock in place of oils.

We all know we should eat healthier, but for some the task can seem overwhelming.  Making small changes can have a tremendous impact on our overall health.  Follow this Healthy Tips Series to learn 30 simple ways to make positive changes in your diet.  To have a custom nutritional analysis and game plan set up for you, call 888-321-0661 to schedule your consultation today!   Cheers to a healthier you!

Author: Caroline G. Faxas, AP, Dipl Ac

 

OM Holistic Wellness provides acupuncture and Oriental Medicine. We are conveniently located to the surrounding communities of Hallandale Beach, Golden Beach, Sunny Isles Beach, Aventura, North Miami, Hollywood, Fort Lauderdale, Davie and Plantation.

7543000601