Health & Wellness

Spring Vegetables and Rye Berry Salad – From the FP Kitchen

Whole grains mixed with vegetables and herbs make great side salads to keep on hand during the summer, as they can be eaten room temperature or cold and taste delicious with/for breakfast, lunch or dinner.

The Magic of Bach Flower Essences – Michael Fraser

I want to encourage everyone to take a few sacred moments of self care, and “stop and smell the roses,”…all of us get busy, and may forget to literally enjoy a moment with a flower. It is not a wasted moment; as Eckhart Tolle says, “Flowers are truly just Being”, and can help us “just BE.”

Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce – From the Feathered Pipe Kitchen

Spring rolls, fresh or fried, can be found in many Asian countries under different names with a variety of wrappers, fillings and dipping sauces. Luckily these rolls seem to be becoming more popular in the States as a quick and healthy way to eat fresh vegetables.

Parmesan Orange Pecan Kale – From the FP Kitchen

Dark leafy greens are so often thought of only in reference to fall and winter, which is a shame because they lend themselves just as well to spring and summer dishes. Greens are a wonderful addition to most any meal and are commonly served at the Feathered Pipe.

The Principles and Practice of Yoga Nidra – Richard Miller, Ph.D.

Impressions, experiences, thoughts, feelings and emotions are problematic only because we refuse them. We judge our experience and try to control what we perceive. In Yoga Nidra we realize that everything is made of the same substance. Refusing anything is refusing who we are.

Self-Accupressure for Deep Relief – Michael Fraser

Accupressure – applying pressure to specific “trigger points” – is a well known form of bodywork. I’ve been doing this form of bodywork for years and both, my clients and I, are amazed at the “unwinding” of tissue that occurs by just holding pressure on the right spot!

Veggie Burgers – From the FP Kitchen

Veggie burgers are a great alternative to burgers made with meat and are frequently served at both lunch and dinner at the Feathered Pipe. Veggie burgers can really be made with any number of ingredients including vegetables, eggs, beans, cheese and grains…

Syndrome X: Pre-Diabetes – Dr. Jeff Roush

Most people know that diabetes is a condition where blood sugar levels are elevated. Type 1 is typically diagnosed in children and type 2 in adults, although it’s now being found surprisingly often in children. What you might not know is that there’s a third, more insidious condition.

Self Care for Soreness – Michael Fraser, CMT

I discovered Arnica when I first started giving massage…What I noticed was that if someone was sore, had overworked themselves, or had a bruise, Arnica ointment almost always helped soreness and bruises go away in much less time than normal.

Baba Ghanoush – From the FP Kitchen

Baba ghanoush is a side dish or salad made from eggplant and tahini and many Middle Eastern cuisines include a version of baba ghanoush, especially in the Levant. The following recipe for baba ghanoush is similar in style and flavor to hummus, with eggplant used instead of chickpeas.

Vegetarian Sushi Rolls – From the FP Kitchen

Though sushi does take some practice to make well at home, it is well worth the time and effort because it is a beautiful and delicious dish. Sushi can be made with any number of fillings including various vegetables and fish, raw or cooked, depending upon preference and availability.

The Difference Between Healing And Curing – Dr. Lissa Rankin

We must reclaim the heart of healing, and it has to start with YOU. Changing the skeleton of our system, without focusing on the heart, defeats the whole purpose. When something lacks heart, the whole thing keels over and dies, which is what’s at risk of happening to our current system.

Abhyanga: Self Massage – Michael Fraser, CMT

About a year before my daughter was born, I was having a very stress-filled time within my life. I was doing everything I knew how to relax – attending yoga class regularly and meditating as part of my routine.

Pizza Margherita – From the FP Kitchen

At the Feathered Pipe homemade pizza is always a big hit and typically served on a busy evening like arrival day. It is essentially a flat bread covered with various toppings, a method which many cultures and cuisines share and has been popular in the Mediterranean region for centuries.

Mattar Saag Paneer – From the FP Kitchen

I learned to cook Indian food while working in the kitchen of the Feathered Pipe. Not surprisingly due to all of the ties to India, Indian food is served frequently, with slight variations on vegetables used and dishes made.

Gingerbread Cookies – From the FP Kitchen

We hope that this Season of Communion finds you well and surrounded by friends and family. We as well hope you are looking to the future and the coming of this New Year as an opportunity for New Beginnings.

Tofu Steaks with Yeast Gravy – From the FP Kitchen

Tofu Steaks has long been a lunch-time favorite served with freshly-made vegetable soups and salad greens. Tofu has gained a reputation as being a very bland-tasting food, but in reality when properly prepared, it has a wonderfully subtle flavor absorbing and accentuating the taste of the complements it is seasoned and cooked with.

Sesame Chicken with Shitake Mushrooms & Mustard Greens – From the FP Kitchen

Mushrooms continue to be one of my favorite vegetables; both their firm yet tender texture and earthy flavor are appealing to me. Native to south Asia, shiitake mushrooms have been used in both medicine and cuisine for thousands of years.

Blessing the Earth with Our Footsteps – Laughing Water

“You have it in your power to make your days on Earth a path of flowers, instead of a path of thorns.”

~ Sri Sathya Sai Baba

The Power of Aromatherapy – Michael Fraser, CMT

Almost everyone knows about aromatherapy–and most people probably experience it when they get a massage. But, very few people use aromatherapy in their daily lives as an important tool for stress reduction and helping the body heal.

What We Need to Practice – Baxter Bell, MD

Yoga posits an intriguing paradox that we each have a perfect, eternal quality already within us, sometimes referred to as the purusha or atman, and at the same time, we have a personal dharma or path to follow that requires active engagement in this lifetime.

Neck & Shoulder Relief – Michael Fraser, CMT

THE TWO MOST INEXPENSIVE SELF MASSAGE TOOLS available for the depths of winter…We’ve all heard of “rice bags”. The truth is, there is no better way to relax your neck and shoulders then by following this simple recipe…

Succotash – From the Feathered Pipe Kitchen

Based upon similar dishes made by the Algonquian tribes, American colonists are thought to have interpreted and incorporated succotash into American cuisine during the 16th or 17th century. Many believe succotash was served during early American Thanksgiving meals…

Kale Chips – From the Feathered Pipe Kitchen

Kale, a member of the brassica family, is a nutrient rich and delicious vegetable, which is gaining popularity in American cuisine. Kale chips are one way to enjoy kale on its own, as a snack, or in addition to soups and salads.

Roasted Cauliflower – From the FP Kitchen

Sometimes it seems cauliflower is relegated to being overcooked and covered with thick sauces, neither of which seem to truly compliment the vegetable itself. Lightly roasting cauliflower brings out its delicious flavor while slightly maintaining its nice crunch.

Bacon and Broccoli Quiche – From the FP Kitchen

Any number of different meat, cheese and vegetable variations may be made into a quiche, though bacon and cheese is especially classic given the popularity of quiche Lorraine. I am fond of quiches with vegetables such as broccoli, asparagus, leek, onion or mushrooms in addition to desired meats and/or cheeses.

Teaching a Man to Fish – Baxter Bell, MD

Yoga is a treasure chest of options, techniques and tools, some of which have developed over thousands of years. And these days, when people in my classes and therapeutic sessions present with difficulties that are the direct result of aging, I feel like I can truly offer something of benefit.

The Ever-Deepening Practice of Self Care – Michael Fraser, CMT

The truth is, we can’t nurture ourselves enough really. Our bodies, our minds, our emotions and our spirits, all need to be treated well daily. Each part of us needs to be cared for and the more we can find ways to care for ourselves in small ways throughout our day, the better we will feel all around! “As we treat ourselves, so we treat the World.”

Sprouted Lentils – From the FP Kitchen

As a child, my parents co-owned a small sprout business based in Montana and only recently have I revisited the culinary practice of sprouting seeds. Germinating seeds into sprouts for consumption, either raw or cooked, is most commonly known as sprouting.

Fresh Lemon Tart – From the FP Kitchen

Lemon, Citrus x limon, is the tart fruit of an evergreen, by the same name. Likely native to Asia, lemons were generally utilized for their medicinal properties as well as ornamental appeal. They are one of my favorite fruits to cook with due to its endless versatility.

Potato Pancakes – From the FP Kitchen

Potato pancakes are a staple of many traditional European cuisines especially in Eastern and Northern Europe and are a lunchtime favorite at the Feathered Pipe Ranch. They can be eaten warm, room temperature or chilled with any number of toppings.

Vegetarian Borscht – From the FP Kitchen

Beets were initially domesticated along the Mediterranean for their edible leaves and later for their sweet colorful roots. Though borscht may be served hot or cold, and made with a great variety of ingredients, the essential ingredient of borscht is beet.

Baked Leeks with Wild Rice and Mushrooms – From the FP Kitchen

Because wild rice grows in colder conditions, the seed itself requires more energy to germinate resulting in high levels of protein. Wild rice makes a great addition to any number of dishes as it has a sweet nutty flavor and chewy texture, especially with leeks and mushrooms.

Roasted Eggplant with Tomatoes and Feta – From the FP Kitchen

Roasting eggplants creates an especially rich and earthy flavor and they taste great served at any temperature. Roasted eggplants are popular at the Feathered Pipe in both Indian and Middle Eastern style dinners.

Shaved Squash Salad – From the FP Kitchen

Zucchinis and yellow or summer squash are actually both summer squash, a term used to separate these soft immature squash from the hard mature squash we eat called winter squash. Because summer squash are picked immature, they can be easily eaten raw as they are very tender and so delicious in salads.

Watermelon Licuado – From the FP Kitchen

A licuado, from the Spanish term for liquefied, is a fresh fruit beverage made from blended fruit, milk or water and occasionally ice. Though licuados are served throughout Latin America, they are especially popular in Mexico, where they are one of many fruit based beverages.

Orange Sesame Carrot Salad – From the FP Kitchen

Carrots are native to Southwestern Asia, where the greatest diversity of wild carrots are still found, and have been cultivated for thousands of years to increase sweetness and reduce woody bitterness common to wild carrots.

Peach Berry Tart – From the FP Kitchen

Peaches are such a classic summer fruit and so fitting for a summer dessert. At the Feathered Pipe, the berries of the season are added as a lovely compliment to peaches tasting delicious on the shortbread-like crust of this peach berry tart.

German Potato Salad – From the FP Kitchen

Various potato dishes are served at the Feathered Pipe throughout the season, but potato salad is particularly favored for summer grills and picnics. German potato salad is a great alternative to the traditional American potato salad because it offers a similar style dish with different looks and flavors.

Gazpacho – From the FP Kitchen

Gazpacho is a Spanish tomato based raw vegetable soup eaten during the warm part of the year and typically served room temperature or chilled. It is a favorite lunchtime soup at the Feathered Pipe, especially when served on warm summer days.

Rosemary Brown Rice Fritters – From the FP Kitchen

Sweet brown rice is one of my favorite kinds of rice because it has pleasing texture, flavor and color. Sweet and slightly sticky, sweet brown rice is ideal for using in recipes that you want to hold together.

Coleslaw with Rice Wine Vinaigrette – From the FP Kitchen

All too often coleslaws are drenched with creamy dressings, which can detract from both the flavor of the vegetables and their general appeal. Vinaigrettes make a lovely dressing for coleslaw, as cabbage and vinegar compliment each other and the colors and flavors of the vegetables are still able to shine.

Fresh Massaman Curry – From the FP Kitchen

Thai cuisine is a popular dinner served at the Feathered Pipe. Curries are one of the staples of Thai cooking, and though prepared curry pastes are readily available, fresh curry paste is especially delicious.

Indian Chapatis – From the FP Kitchen

The Feathered Pipe serves an Indian meal during every retreat, and chapatis are a favorite flatbread accompaniment. Flatbreads, like chapatis are important parts of the meal, as they serve as both the carbohydrate and eating utensil.

Minted Pea Soup – From the FP Kitchen

Vegetarian soup is served for most every lunch at the Feathered Pipe because it is a good option for retreat participants. Vegetable purées make a perfect summer soup as they can easily be served at any temperature, as a meal on their own or in addition to other dishes or courses.

GMO…OMG!!! – Laughing Water

Genetic engineering of foods raises all kinds of issues: moral, economic, health, environmental and more. Yet the United States, which is ground zero of genetic engineering, has embraced the technology like a hormone-driven teenager.

Knowing When and How to Say When – Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Humorist Carl Ottavi once said, “The popularity of dieting proves that people will go to great lengths to avoid going to great widths.” But despite the myriad of diets and fitness info out there, worldwide obesity is on the rise. In fact, seven out of ten Americans are overweight or obese.

Toasted Corn Salad – From the FP Kitchen

I grew up in a family with a deep love for Mexico, and for as long as I can remember I have been especially fond of Mexican and similarly influenced cuisine as their flavors, color and textures are vivid and delicious.

Rustic Apple Pie – From the FP Kitchen

Apple pies are quintessential Americana cuisine and though delicious throughout the year, they are an especially lovely summer dessert with this Feathered Pipe rustic apple pie recipe, being particularly fresh, easy and delicious.

Get “Grounded”!!! – Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

It’s the strangest thing I ever heard, but could our shoes be killing us? Synthetically-soled shoes, unlike the leather soles of decades ago, insulate the body from the natural healing energies of the earth—which is as basic to health as water, air, and food.

Warm Red Lentil & Spinach Salad with Goat Cheese – From the FP Kitchen

Lentil salads, such as warm red lentil salad, are the perfect way to continue eating lentils during spring and summer. Warm spiced red lentils with caramelized shallots over sautéed spinach and fresh tomatoes topped with crumbled goat cheese are reminiscent of similar dishes served in Persian cuisine.

Cucumber Watermelon Slaw – From the FP Kitchen

When making a Thai inspired meal, as I used to at the Feathered Pipe, I frequently make a fresh slaw to add a refreshing raw slightly pickled element side dish or relish. Because summer is just around the corner, fresh cucumber and watermelon slaw seems to be a great dish to jump start fresh fruit and vegetables dishes…

Live Fully, Live Simply – Laughing Water & India Supera

The economic and environmental conditions of today should all makes us take pause and reassess our current position and direction for the future. The difficulties we are all facing should motivate us all to go deeper and to become more creative and essential within our practice and our being.

The Many Faces of B Complex Deficiency – Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

In today’s crazy world, the B complex family of vitamins has all but been forgotten. Stress, sugar, alcohol, the Pill, medications, a low-carb diet, and coffee rob you of your already dwindling reserves of this critical water-soluble vitamin family—which must be replaced daily.

Balsamic Roasted Vegetables – From the FP Kitchen

Because of its wide appeal, asparagus lends itself well to any number of dishes and cooking techniques, but tends to shine with minor cooking. Balsamic vinegar, fresh herbs, garlic and honey provide and deliciously neutral flavor palate for roasted vegetables…

Microwave Ovens: Another Form of Radiation? – Dr. Ann Louise Gittleman

Radiation has sure been in the news a lot these days—and for good reason. But what about the radiation emitted from your microwave oven? Although they’re a popular way of reheating or even cooking foods, I’ve never been comfortable with them—even though a whopping 95% of the population owns one.

Spiritual Nutrition – Michele Hebert

The spiritual path is our journey into greater awareness or mindfulness. It means making an effort to be in the present moment. When was the last time you sat down to a meal and tasted every bite that you ate?

Dealing with Fibromyalgia – JJ Gormley-Etchells

I have noticed an increasing number of my yoga students telling me that they have Fibromyalgia. Based on my growing experience with students suffering from Fibromyalgia, I’ve arrived at my own set of conclusions about this disease and ways of using yoga to help alleviate its symptoms.

Chocolate Chip Cookies – From the FP Kitchen

It seems over the years that there is one decadence that our visitors can’t live without – our chocolate chip cookies. In fact, two of our long-time teachers, Dean Lerner and John Schumacher, actually have it written into their contract that we must serve them during their retreats. Enjoy!

For Your Health: Be Sweet To Yourself – Kira Ryder

Yoga is a practice of intimacy. And by now you might have noticed that we are our most intimate relationships. We are the ones we are talking to most often. We are the ones usually talking back. And we are the ones we think about almost non-stop. This can be embarrassing when you first see it. Seeing it is the first step to freedom.

A Natural Awakening – Laughing Water

From the heart of the Amazon…My most recent inspiration came, indirectly, from the heart of the Amazon. I was attending the Natural Products Expo, just across the street from Disneyland in Anaheim, California, listening to a featured address by Lynne Twist.

Sesame Rice with Tofu and Vegetables

Stir-fried vegetables and tofu over rice has been a standby meal for most of my life, both as a child and as an adult. It is quick, easy, fresh and delicious. Over the years, I have tried many different versions with roughly the same ingredients. I have come to discover the flavors meld and balance better when the rice is combined into the stir-fry, and I now prefer this method of preparation.

Beets and Tangerines – From the FP Kitchen

Beets and citrus compliment each other and make a delicious combination for salads. I first came across the combination in the Feathered Pipe Ranch kitchen, while serving a Middle Eastern inspired meal.