A good friend had recommended that I read Born to Run by Christopher McDougall. It was one of those books that you just can’t put down (others that fit this category include Atlas Shrugged, The Fountainhead, and End the Fed). He does a fine job of illustrating the importance and forgotten love of running, its psychological importance (running to, for, and away from things), and a tribe of people called the Tarahumara.
If you even remotely like running, and perhaps if you don’t but think you might, you would love the wisdom and story that is tangled in these pages. What I took away is a new addition to my diet (something I explored a couple years ago but never took to) – chia seeds. Chia seeds are tiny black seeds packed full of super-nutrition. You can purchase them in bulk at most healthfood stores, and of course you can find places to purchase them online.
The nutrients packed full in these tiny seeds include: omega-3s, omega-6s, protein, calcium, iron, zinc, fiber, and antioxidants. The Tarahumara make iskiate – which has chia seeds dissolved in water, with a bit of sugar and lime. I have made this substituting honey for the sugar – and it is pretty tasty. You can also dissolve chia seeds in a juice of your choice. (If you are using water, I strongly suggest using filtered water – the reason – tap water can have sediment in it that is not conducive to optimum health).
When you “dissolve” the seeds, it creates this gelatin-like substance. It doesn’t look real pretty, but it tastes like whatever you dissolve it in and you can almost immediately feel the energy from the drink. Go figure, like an all-natural energy concoction.
The Tarahumara are a tribe of very peaceful people who are also super-athletes (can run 50 miles at the drop of a hat). Their love of their families and their community are beautiful – and our own country could use to think about implementing some of their actions into our own livelihoods.
So, if you can, pick up the book, but more importantly, give chia seeds a try. I think you will find a wonderful addition to your diet, and see some very positive health benefits.
Resources to Check Out
Born to Run by Christopher McDougall
Tisha T. Casida 