Get Outside Your Box
Contributed by our local friend at TheHealthyLifeArchitect.com
Fresh air. Blue skies. Green grass. It’s definitely springtime in central Louisiana. What an amazing time of year to get outside and enjoy the beautiful gifts from Mother Nature. Whether your box includes the four walls of a home or work space, make and take the time to allow some sunshine (natural vitamin D) into your life. When the weekend rolls around, load up the kids and head to Louisiana’s only national forest, Kisatchie National Forest. We are so fortunate to have this outdoor mecca right here in our own backyard. Managed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Kisatchie is home to the longest trail system in Louisiana, known as the Azalea Trail, as well as numerous spurs that are also easily accessible from local trailheads.
more productive and healthier than their indoor counterparts. Hike. Bike. Run. Walk the dog. Let the kids explore. Or perhaps pitch a tent for the night. It’s fun. It’s an adventure, something the entire family can enjoy together. To access trailheads closest to Alexandria, head down Highway 28 west to Messina Road (then, follow the signs) or down Twin Bridges (less than 10 miles from the Jackson St/Twin Bridges Rd intersection). There is also a fantastic trail near the Kincaid Recreation/Campground area (Google Map search terms: Kincaid Recreation Area, Boyce, LA 71409) where you can see the bald eagles’ nest, and maybe eagles soaring out over the lake, too. It’s a phenomenal site. Parking is free at any trailhead. Nor is there an entry fee to access any of the trails. Note: Use of campsite does require a nominal fee.
You will certainly appreciate the sense of calm, your relaxed mind, and the fresh air. If you’re lucky, you may spot some wildlife or birds during your outing. If you’d like more info before you go and would like to speak to Elite’s resident “trail gurus” Don and Bart, give them a shout at the clinic: (318) 443-3311, or send an email to dcassano@elitephysicaltherapy. us or bjones@elitephysicaltherapy.us. They can certainly offer their insight and share their Kisatchie knowledge. Or contact the Calcasieu Ranger District office at (318) 793-9427. Happy trails!
Get outside. Enjoy. Breathe fresh air. Studies report that people who spend time outside are
have a laugh
on us!
Easiest Chickpea Curry Ingredients
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2 (15-ounce) cans no-salt-added chickpeas, rinsed and drained
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 large yellow onion, diced
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3 tablespoons ketchup
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3 garlic cloves, minced
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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1 (3-inch) cinnamon stick
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Chopped cilantro (optional)
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Pinch of ground cloves
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Lemon wedges (optional)
Directions
Bring to a boil; reduce to a simmer, cover, and cook for 20 minutes. 5. Uncover and increase heat to medium- high; cook until sauce is slightly reduced, for 5 minutes. 6. Serve with chopped cilantro and lemon wedges, if desired.
1. In a large straight-sided skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. 2. Add onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until dark brown around edges, for about 6 minutes. 3. Add garlic, curry, cinnamon, and cloves and cook, stirring, until fragrant, for 30 seconds. 4. Add chickpeas, ketchup, 1 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 2 cups water.
Recipe inspired by MarthaStewart.com.
Elite PT • (318) 443-3311 • 3
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