Visualization

In sports, we talk about VISUALIZATION all the time. In running, we visualize crossing the finish line. In our visual, we not only SEE ourselves in the process of crossing (arms raised, ear-to-ear grin), we also visualize how we FEEL when we cross.

Some of us also do this at different stages of a long distance race. We can visualize ourselves - how we look and feel, at mile 9 of a 1/2 marathon race or at mile 21 of a full marathon race.

In essence, what visualization allows us to do is PRACTICE and create an expectation of how we want to look and feel at different stages.

What if we apply this same principle to our eating habits and lifestyle? Can you visualize what you would do when you see a buttery croissant? Can you imagine how you would react when faced with the decision to choose pasta with alfredo sauce or a California salad with mixed fruit?

Visualizing yourself in these situations, may help you create the individual you want to become - when it comes to your diet.

Here's a recipe to satisfy after a long run...if you run...

Curry Squash Soup

Ingredients

Serves 8

• 1 medium kuri squash (3 lb.), seeded and quartered
• 1 large onion, peeled and quartered
• 2 cloves garlic, halved
• 2 Tbs. canola or olive oil, divided
• 1 large sweet potato, pricked with fork (1 lb.)
• 1 Tbs. minced fresh ginger
• 2 tsp. curry powder
• 1/2 cup fresh orange juice
• 1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
• 1 Tbs. chopped chives, for garnish

Directions

1. Heat oven to 350˚F. In center of each squash quarter, set 1 onion quarter and 1 garlic half; drizzle with 1 tsp. oil, and season with salt and pepper. Wrap in foil, and place on baking sheet along with potato. Bake 1 hour, or until squash and potato are soft. Cool 20 minutes, or until easy to handle.
2. Heat remaining oil in large stockpot over medium heat. Coarsely chop onion quarters, and add to oil with garlic halves. Sauté 4 to 5 minutes, or until onion is soft. Add ginger and curry, and cook 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Scoop squash and sweet potato flesh into pot, cover with 6 cups water, and season with salt and pepper. Cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer 30 minutes. Remove from heat, and purée squash mixture in blender or food processor until smooth. Stir in orange juice and nutmeg. Season with salt and pepper, and garnish with pinch of chopped chives.