Christmas Present Ideas
This is a fun, exciting, and stressful time of year!
I have always liked to make my presents for family and friends. I find it is cheaper, lots of fun, and less stressful because I don't have to tackle the shops and the hustle and bustle involved with all of that! I enjoy the process of putting my love into the gift as I make it. This year I'll be making Choc-Orange Balls (see below for recipe) and Ginger & Lime Cordial.
I also like to get the kids involved, either by making something themselves or helping me wrap and present the gifts. Of course, my kids are pretty much deprived of sugar through the year, so if they get an opportunity to cook something sweet, they usually jump at it! A family favourite is Chocolate Fudge, which they experiment with different flavours. Last year they added peppermint essence and decorated the top with crushed candy canes, they looked and tasted fantastic. When they were younger, my children used to make melt & pour soap in Christmas shapes and scents. These are always popular among the family, especially the ones made from a goat's milk base. They are so soft and gentle to the skin.
Another great gift idea for everyone to love, is a voucher from Qi Flow. You can give those you love the means to a healthier and happier year with a voucher for an acupuncture appointment. I'm sure you can all think of someone in your family, or among your friends, who you know would benefit from improving their health. Give me a call or send me an email and I can send you the voucher. That's stress-free shopping!!
Delicious Choc-Orange Balls:
These are sugar free, so they are kind to our health which is great during the Christmas indulging time. I also find that they fill me up, so I don’t have to eat heaps of them to satisfy my sweet craving. They are so easy to make and take no time at all.
I usually double the recipe because I have a big family!
Makes about 30 small balls.
Ingredients:
1.5 cups (225g) Whole Almonds (and or Walnuts, Cashews - whatever nuts you have handy!)
15 Medjool Dates, pitted
1 tablespoon Chia Seeds
1 tablespoon Cacao Powder/Cocoa Powder
2 tablespoons Coconut Oil
Zest of 1 Orange
Method:
Place the nuts into a food processor and blend until they are finely ground.
Add the dates, chia seeds, cocoa powder, coconut oil and orange zest and blend until the mixture is completely combined and holds together when you press a chunk together.
Roll into large teaspoon sized balls using your hands, then place in the fridge to cool for 30 mins-1 hour.
I store these in the fridge in an airtight container and they last for a week or so.
Walnuts are great for the kidneys and if you are trying to conceive, they are especially beneficial for men!
They look fantastic inside a small colourful bowl, wrapped in cellophane and tied with Christmas ribbon.
If you need some calming before Christmas make an appointment today and enjoy Christmas this year.
