Interview by Garden-eats today!

This is a repost from the lovely Garden-eats website! They just published this interview with moi + I wanted to make sure you all saw it! xoxo 

 

philosophie mama superfoods and protein powder - berry bliss cacao magic green dream

 philosophie mama superfoods

Today we’re joined by new friend and raw food chef, the beaming Sophie Jaffe, founder of Philosophie Superfoods. We’re always gushing over the photos Sophie shares of her adorable kids on Instagram. When we’re not going, “awhhhh” at those cute photos, we’re feeling inspired by her live-freely-in-the-moment lifestyle. Because of her dedication to helping others live well through real food we wanted to introduce you guys to her.

Sophie created Philosophie to bring vitality and vibrancy to people near and far with her superfood powders. She offers newcomers the superfood challenge- “add a superfood blend to your diet every day for a week to experience increased energy, clarity and balance.” And, in case you’re wondering, Sophie and her beautiful family are living the Philosophie every day. We had an opportunity to chat about Sophie bonding with her kids over food, how her travels help shape Philosophie and what sustainability means to her family.

philosophie mama with her babies - philosophie superfoods, healthy mommy

Garden Eats: Did you grow up around food and plants?

Sophie: Yes! My mom always, always had a garden. We moved around a lot while i was little, but no matter the house, no matter how long we stayed, we had a garden. We always had fresh herbs and vegetables, and we LOVED helping her in the garden and getting dirty! One of my favorite games as a child living in North Carolina was pretending I was from the 1800s and collecting veggies from the garden in my long skirt (a quilt wrapped around my waist) and dipping water from our pond into a pail. I think those early experiences “planted” a deep reverence in me for the nourishing power of fresh, whole foods from the earth.

GE: Sophie, you’re a world traveler. How have your travels shaped the Philosophie brand?

Sophie: Traveling is always a fun challenge for me when it comes to food and eating. Figuring out where to get my staples, navigating around town to different markets and healthy stores, deciphering the language and how to communicate what I’m looking for, etc! Then of course the MOST fun is discovering new foods. The majority of the superfoods in my blends are inspired by the foods I learned about across my travels and research about other parts of the world. Cacao was very popular in Guatemala during my time volunteering. We would go out at night for hot chocolate as a social activity. We learned all about the antioxidants and benefits of chocolate in its pure form. Most of the ingredients in Berry Bliss were influenced from my experience in Thailand. I would eat mangosteen daily after purchasing from the back of a local farmer’s truck. My mantra is to “Make Every Food A Superfood” and I truly feel with my superfood blends you CAN, no matter where you are in the world and what ingredients you have available.

GE: We love that Philosophie focuses on creating fresh, small batch superfoods. Can you remind readers why small batch is so vital to everyday wellness.

Sophie: We create small batches of our superfood blends because I strongly believe the energy of the people creating the product affects the person consuming it. Each person on the Philosophie team is handpicked and trained by me. They are all loving, inspiring people who are part of the team because they believe in what we do and love doing it. They were already using the superfoods all the time on their own, so finding me and becoming an integral part of Philosophie was a seamless transition. We also believe creating small batches ensures the absolute highest quality of PURE and POTENT ingredients and products. That’s the point of my product line: there are zero preservatives or fillers. If we were mass producing, I’m not sure how that could stay true.

GE: You know we love connecting kids with real food through everyday experiences out in the world. Do you take your boys to the farmer’s markets with you? What’s it like when they’re in the kitchen?

Sophie: Kai and Leo (3 1/2, 1 1/2) LOVE helping in the kitchen and ADORE the farmers market! They can’t get enough. Kai and I usually have a mommy/son date every Sunday where we sneak away and check out new produce and sample everything. It’s such a special time for us and we cherish it. Leo LOVES making smoothies and helps me on the reg – he insists on putting all of the ingredients in and pushing the button (with supervision of course). They both have very adventurous palates and will pretty much try anything if they see me eating it first–the key is to start them early on a variety of pure foods.

GE: We agree! We love helping our clients get creative with new ingredients and superfoods. Because the warmer weather is coming, what’s one of your favorite ways to incorporate Philosophie into kid’s meals?

Sophie: Popsicles and smoothies! Nothing is more nutrient-dense and refreshing and FUN to eat when it’s warm outside!

GE: Connecting with real food inspires people to live their healthiest. What tips can you share with busy parents who are also trying to carve out time to reconnect with fitness?

Sophie: When kids are really young and still taking naps, that’s the best time for a workout. Online yoga and Pilates is so easy to access. Be consistent with your workouts just as you are trying to be consistent with your food. Start every day with a smoothie, for example. And each day give yourself the gift of 20-30 minutes of activity while they nap. In just a few short days you will notice a huge shift in your energy levels, mood, and body! And within a few short weeks, your routine will be second nature and easier than ever to follow.

GE: How does your family practice sustainability?

Sophie: My family practices sustainability by being mindful in how and what we spend money on, how and what we expend our energy on, and how we give back to our mother earth. They are still very young so I try little things each day to teach them. We rarely use paper towels, instead use reusable cloths to clean. I teach them how to recycle and most importantly to reuse. We talk about why it’s so important not to litter and we pick up garbage in our neighborhood or on hikes. I explain why we turn off lights when we aren’t using them and why we walk places instead of driving, if we can. I always explain the “why” of things and attempt to give them a sense of the bigger picture. They may not understand it all right now, but the point is to introduce a way of seeing and interacting with the world. Give them the framework, and they’ll fill in the blanks as they grow. It’s so inspiring to watch a sense of care and responsibility for the world unfold in such new little souls, and it’s a great feeling to know you had a part in instilling such beautiful values!

GE: Any new partnerships or news you’d like to share?

Sophie: We are now selling on Amazon.com, which is very exciting! It will make it easier and more convenient than ever to get nourished! We are also coming out with new products this year–the newest one is a delicious, organic coconut butter mixed with our superfood blends, vanilla bean, and a touch of maple syrup. It’s going to be sublime. I’m also selling all my sister’s handmade, gorgeous healing products for body, which are wonderful for all ages, completely pure, and stunningly effective. Right now my faves are her Detox Bath Soak and the Healing Face Oil!!! I won’t use anything else on my face–it does it all. She’s also coming out with a multi-balm for pain, inflammation, and skin issues next month, and we’ll add it to the site–you don’t want to miss it.

GE: Thanks for stopping by Sophie! Can’t wait to try the coconut butter and check out your sis’ new goods!

Want to get a taste of the Philosophie? Take Sophie’s challenge here and stop back to let us know how great you’re feeling!

 

 

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Sophie’s 2023 Holiday Gift Guide

The holidays are a beautiful way to celebrate the people in your life. One way to spread a little more love, intention and compassion this holiday season is to share what has been transformational and meaningful to your own life.


This gift guide was created to help you slow down, evaluate and look at the people in your life for what they mean to you and who they are instead of just another name of your list to check out. Here are my top picks for gifts for your loved ones.


If you have friends and family that are ready to step into their life, transform their whole health, and elevate their well-being, then we want to help you find the PERFECT Philosophie goodie to gift them.

Give the gifts that help spread love, wellness and ABUNDANCE this holiday season. 

 

Philosophie Lover’s Bundle (on subscription)
Pranamat (code: SOPHIE)


 



 



 

Alive Water (delivery service)


 



 

Harry Potter™ Faux Book Lockbox from Pottery Barn (or any of the Pottery Barn teen or kid collection)


Adapto – what? The Philosophie Behind the Adaptogens in our Products

Philosophie Superfood + Adaptogen Blends

Adaptogens are Mother’s Nature natural medicine. Adaptogens are powerful little plants and herbs that have literally withstood natural disasters and bring their same ADAPTIVE qualities into our bodies. Philosophie babe, Marissa Cohen, shares the beauty and power of adaptogens and how they show up in our superfoods!

Maybe adaptogens are a staple in your diet, or maybe you’re not sure how to pronounce most of them. Adaptogenic herbs and medicinal mushrooms have gained significant attention in recent years, and for good reason. Despite what your social media feed may lead you to believe, these powders are far from a recent trend. Adaptogens have been used for thousands of years in eastern medicine practices such as Traditional Chinese Medicine to help restore the body to balance. 

Each one of the Philosophie Superfood Blends contains potent, responsibly-sourced adaptogens. From maca in Berry Bliss to mesquite in Green Dream and reishi mushroom powder in Cacao Magic, these blends are designed to nourish you on a cellular level, beyond helping you meet your daily macronutrient requirements. 

Philosophie Superfood Blends

What are Adaptogens?

The term “adaptogen” was first defined by a Russian pharmacologist to mean “agents which help an organism counteract any adverse effects of a physical, chemical or biological stressor by generating nonspecific resistance.”* For example, the cacao and reishi mushroom in Cacao Magic help the body achieve homeostasis and fight fatigue. If you are feeling depleted, they can deliver energy, but if you are overstimulated they can have a calming effect. Cacao and reishi specifically have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which are specifically beneficial for helping the body cope with physical and mental stress.

Chocolate Cacao Strawberries

Adaptogens for Stress Relief

The psychological benefits of adaptogens make them especially useful in today’s world. An estimated 31.1% of Americans experience anxiety at some point in their lives.* Anxiety disorders range in their intensity, but, when left unaddressed, they can become crippling or lead to more severe mental and physical illnesses.

Using adaptogens is a great way to manage stress from the outside world and minimize the effects of the cortisol stress response in the body. One study found that consistently taking adaptogens for 60 days decreased stress in participants by 28%.* Furthermore, other trials have shown the herbs ability to combat depression, lower blood pressure, promote sleep and cure sleep disorders like insomnia, and treat adrenal fatigue.


Adaptogens for Brain Health and Depression

Adaptogens can boost cognitive functioning in several ways, which explains why it is often used in patients with depression and Alzheimer's disease. Adaptogens boosts serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a role in emotional and mood regulation. Low serotonin levels are linked to depression, anxiety, and bipolar disorder.* By helping achieve adequate serotonin levels, adaptogens can bring relief to those suffering from mood disorders. Furthermore, they help regenerate brain cells and reconstruct synapses, the never endings where cells communicate with one another. As a result, the ability to learn, memorize, and recall information is enhanced.

Superfood Blends

Adaptogens for Hormone Balance and Fertility

All three blends contain organic maca powder. Maca is a root that is dried and ground into a fine powder. It has a rich, malty taste that helps make the Superfood Blends so delicious. But it’s not just your taste buds that have you craving your daily dose of Philosophie products – your hormones want their hit from maca, as well. Maca helps balance hormones by supporting the endocrine system, making it a natural aphrodisiac that increases sex drive and supports fertility. And while most energy enhancers like caffeine deplete the adrenal glands, maca supports the adrenals and stabilizes your blood sugar to give long-lasting stamina. Not to mention that it contains a host of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for reproduction, including calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and iron.* 



The beauty of the Philosophie products is that they are curated to give your unique body exactly what it needs through the use of the adaptogens. They work their magic on their own or in synchrony with each other when combined. Check out our recipe page for hundreds of ideas to begin nourishing your beautiful body, mind, and spirit.

Philosophie Smoothies

Recources(*):

http://www.womenlivingnaturally.com/articlepage.php?id=69

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23439798

https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/kc/serotonin-facts-232248

https://nootropicsexpert.com/nootropics-glossary/#dopamine

https://www.floliving.com/how-to-use-maca-to-treat-infertility/

 

What are your favorite benefits of adaptogens and how do you like to incorporate them into your diet? Share with us on the comments below and connect with us on Instagram!

Superfood Chocolate Bark

Superfood Chocolate Bark

We’re in LOVE with this dark chocolate superfood bark recipe made with Cacao Magic, Coconut Magic and Rich Nuts Sprouted Cashews making this a mood-boosting, tasty, sweet & savory treat!


You can turn any recipe into a nutrient-dense, balancing meal by adding superfoods and high-quality organic foods. All foods are not created equal, so even when it comes to choosing nuts make sure to source a brand that is raw, organic and activated like Pine Nuts. 


This superfood bark is super easy to make and can last for a whole week. Clean ingredients, energizing and mood-balancing superfoods and no added sugar makes this dreamy treat good for your body too!

Philosophie & Rich Nuts

Gather This:

8 ounces dark chocolate, chopped

2 tbsp Cacao Magic

2 tbsp Coconut Magic

2 tbsp melted coconut oil

Pinch of pink sea salt

⅓ cup Rich Nuts Savory Sage Sprouted Cashews, roughly chopped


Do This:

Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or a silicone baking mat and set it aside.

In a heatproof bowl, melt the dark chocolate over a double boiler or in the microwave using 30-second intervals, stirring in between until smooth.

Once the chocolate is melted, add Cacao Magic, Coconut Magic, melted coconut oil, and a pinch of pink sea salt. Stir well until all the ingredients are fully combined.

Pour the chocolate mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Use a spatula to spread it out evenly, creating a thin layer.

Sprinkle the sprouted cashews evenly over the chocolate bark, gently pressing them down to make sure they stick.

Place the baking sheet in the refrigerator for about 30 minutes to allow the chocolate bark to set. Once the chocolate is firm, remove it from the refrigerator and break it into smaller pieces or irregular chunks. ENJOY!

Chocolate Bark

 

What treats are you making with your superfoods? Share below!

Simple Steps to Let Go of Stress

Stress Less with Philosophie

Stress is pretty much unavoidable. Between traffic, busy schedules, and the many responsibilities that come along with the various roles each of us play from parent, spouse, business-owner or employee, it’s no wonder that we often find ourselves dealing with high levels of tension, either mentally, emotionally, or physically.

As natural as it is to feel this stress, if we allow it to become a constant in our lives, it can lead to a variety of negative effects including headaches, digestive trouble, elevated blood pressure, pain in muscles and joints, problems with sleep, fatigue, and mood disturbances. That doesn’t mean, however, that you’re doomed to suffer if you experience stress in your day-to-day life. Investing time in soothing and balancing practices can help you release the build-up of stress from your body and your mind.

There are tons of way to let stress go, and different people will find that some methods are more effective for them than others. If you find yourself struggling with stress on the regular, try out some of these simple stress-relieving practices to feel a greater sense of ease and peace in your daily life!

 

Sophie + Son

De-stress in the Kitchen

Cooking can be a wonderful way to relieve stress because it can help you focus your attention on something positive and nourishing. Many of the things that you do to prep a meal, snack, or treat involves some sort of repetitive process like chopping, stirring, or washing produce. These actions have a simple rhythm to them that can be soothing and almost meditative. Baking, in particular, is a great kitchen activity for releasing tension because the unique sensations of working with dough and batters with your hands can get you out of your head and back into your body very quickly. Not sure what to make? Try your hand at some delicious baked goods, like our Superfood Collagen + Cacao Date Nut Loaf Cake

Superfood Collagen + Cacao Date Nut Loaf Cake

Just Say "Om"

Developing a steady meditation practice is one of the very best things you can do to let go of stress in your life. It cultivates a deep inner peace and the ability to let distressing thoughts go instead of circling them obsessively. There are tons of different types of meditation practices, but even taking just a few minutes a day to sit quietly and focus on your breath can have dramatically positive impacts.

 

Spend Time with Friends

There are some people that always just leave you feeling refreshed and more positive and those are the people you want to spend time with when you start to feel the pressures of life building. Whether you choose to talk about what is troubling you, or you prefer to focus on what’s going on in their life, spending time with a grounded friend can help you get perspective on the issues that you’re struggling with.

 

Time with Friends Philosophie Image

 

 Have a Dance Party

This may sound like a silly suggestion, but I dare you to try it. Next time you’re feeling frustrated or overwhelmed, step away from the source of the stress for a few minutes, turn on your favorite beats, and rock out. It may not feel entirely natural at first, but if you allow yourself to connect with the music and really let your body express any pent up feelings through your movements, you just might find that you can completely turn your mood around in just a matter of minutes!

 

Get Out in Nature

Another thing that can help you get perspective is getting out of the hustle and in to nature. There’s something about the simplicity and beauty of the natural world that reminds us that our ultimate purpose in life is to simply be the best us we can be. All of the added stresses and strains of modern life feel far away when you’re out on a long hike or floating in the ocean’s waves, and that little bit of space can help make stressful situations seem much more manageable.

Sophie Jaffe at the beach

 

Drink Water

Drink your water! Our lives can be so full, chaotic, and beautiful that sometimes stress, fear, worry or anxiety arises because we aren’t caring for our physical needs. A big glass of cold water can be SO healing. We love ours with a little bit of sunshine. What about you?

Sunshine Drops

 

Strawberry Banana Green Smoothie

Strawberry Banana Green Smoothie

When your kiddos (or you!) are craving something sweet, but still want to sneak in some nutrients THIS is the smoothie you need. 


It’s loaded with a blend of coconut water giving it a touch of sweetness from the coconut, banana to make it thick promotes healthy digestion, greens, strawberries, and both Philosophie Berry Bliss (vitamin C + plant protein) and Green Dream (iron support, energy + plant protein)! Another plus about this drink is that it really alkaline's the system and it is incredibly cleansing for the system.


You can take away the banana for less sugar or add more to make it sweeter. You'll still get the beautiful benefits of all the superfoods and greens.

Green Superfood Smoothie

Gather This:

Heaping spoonfuls of Berry Bliss + Green Dream

Spoonful of Cosmic Elixir (collagen + adaptogens!)

1-2 tbsp Coconut Magic or coconut butter

8 oz coconut water 

Handful of strawberries (tip: keep the stems on for extra greens!)

Banana

Handful of greens (we used spinach)


Do This:

Combine all ingredients in a high-speed blender then pour into your favorite glass and top with bee pollen and a scoop of Culina yogurt alternative. ENJOY!

Strawberry Banana Green Superfood Smoothie

7 Health Goals to Set for Yourself This Year

Philosophie Superfoods

People often think an intention or resolution has to be a giant life change, but we believe in keeping things simple and setting attainable goals. Let’s start to think of this time as another opportunity to check in with ourselves and manifest our dream lives–one small, loving step at a time.


What did we accomplish last year? How did we feel defeated? What did we LEARN about ourselves? What do we want to take into the next chapter, and what do we want to leave behind?


Let this year be all about you and your authentic self. The very best YOU can be.

Cosmic Elixir + Tarot Cards

If you need a little inspiration for your health and wellbeing this year, we have you covered. We’re sharing 7 health goal examples to motivate you but your health is all about YOU. Find what works for you. Take the habits you’re doing already and ADD to them to more align with how you want to feel in life. Do the things that feel GOOD to you.


DRINK MORE WATER

Swapping out sugary, caffeinated, or alcoholic drinks for water is a great first step to better health. Elevate your water with Liquid Chlorophyll Sunshine Drops for better digestion, more energy and detoxification.


Philosophie Sunshine Drops

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Sleep is SO important to our mind, body and soul and deep, restorative sleep should be an absolute non-negotiable but often gets pushed to the back of your mind. Sleep is connected to so much in our body including our eating habits. Studies have shown that those who are well-rested have better portion control and will select healthier food options than those who are sleep-deprived! READ THIS POST for our tips to better sleep!


CLEANSE & RESET YOUR SPACE

Clutter in your physical space can create clutter in your mind, making you unable to concentrate on the things that actually matter in the present moment instead you’re focusing on the chores that need to be done, the work piling up or that box downstairs that was yet to be put away. Magic happens as you clear out the clutter that has been weighing you down mentally, physically and emotionally.


TAKE TIME FOR SELF CARE

Make sure to put yourself first by practicing self-care. Doing so allows you to take intentional time away from stress so you can be more resilient when you’re facing challenges. Know what your boundaries are and set functional limits in order to operate at capacity in all of the areas of your life.


Tarot Cards & Self Care

GET TO KNOW WHAT WORKS FOR YOUR BODY - INTUITIVE EATING!

Listen to your body instead of all the nutrition noise because you can. Why let your power go to the diet industry when you are lucky enough to be able to give your body what it is truly craving on a spiritual and cellular level? READ THIS POST for our tips on clean eating and attaining more nourishment.


UNPLUG MORE

Putting away your phone or laptop isn’t just good for your mental health, it’s good for your physical health as well. Download our Digital Detox Guide with tips for your own digital detox including a letter from Sophie Jaffe, a meditation ritual, and 5-minute check-in practice.


EMBRACE AGING

Being able to embrace yourself will help you become stronger. Our #1 secret to aging gracefully? SUPERFOODS, of course! Beauty starts within and when you load your body up with nutrient-dense, high-vibrational SUPER foods, your body just loves them. Our superfood blends contain highly potent ingredients like reishi, spirulina, goji berry and collagen to support longevity, skin elasticity, and vitality.

Sophie Jaffe

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