What is moderation? What is the wisdom of this old adage?
Moderation is the middle way. It is the path advised by the Greeks, through which we fly neither too close to the sun nor too close to the sea. Moderation is meant to ensure balance, integrity, and bring us closer to union with the Divine. Rather than thinking of moderation as permission for the occasional partaking in extremes - whether in excess or in deficiency, it may be more useful to think of moderation as taking only what we need - no more, no less - in any given moment.
Thus, in a diet in which we take only what we need - no more, no less - we should consider eating foods that restore balance, provide complete nourishment, and satisfy our emotional and physical needs. For many of us, this means finding healthier alternatives of the foods we love, especially those foods that are equally rich with emotional ingredients. We may need to accept that an alternative is not an exact replica and replacement, however, it may help us in our efforts to observe moderation. When it comes to food, observing moderation may be taking in just the right amount salt, sugar, and fat. Rather than obsessing over labels, it may be more useful to find recipes where such things are already moderated.
It is also important to remember, that when we make food ourselves, we know exactly what we are putting into our bodies and in what portion. Moreover, by preparing food from scratch, we can create a positive relationship with what we are eating. This relationship, coupled with offering and prayer, transforms our eating habits as we become both consciously appreciative and grateful for every morsel.
One more word of wisdom: Be moderate, even in observing moderation.
A recipe for moderation - Carrot Cake Treats
Equipment needed: dehydrator, food processor (2+ cup), spatula, mixing bowl- 1 cup raw soaked sunflower seeds (soak 6-8 hours)
- 1 tsp extra virgin first cold press olive oil
- 1 cup Thompson raisins
- 6-8 dates (pits removed)
- 1 tart apple, such as Granny Smith (sliced with core removed)
- 1 cup shredded carrots (use a food grater or grating plate of a food processor)
In a food processor, combine the raw soaked sunflower seeds, apple, and olive oil with the S blade. As the mixture is processing, add in the dates and raisins. Remove this mixture to a mixing bowl. In the mixing bowl, combine with shredded carrots.
Spoon out the mixture in 1" balls onto Teflex dehydrator sheets. Dehydrate 8-10 hours at 110 degrees. Flip and dehydrate another 6-8 hours or so. They should be moist and chewy when complete.
Bite-sized and delicious, enjoy these sweet treats as a dessert or snack - in moderation.
Please remember that although, the sugars in these treats are naturally derived, it is best to limit sugar intake. However, this recipe provides a healthier alternative, and may be a guilt-free way to satisfy one's carrot cake craving :)
