Things seem to be going well lately—I’m on a bit of a roll. I’ve mentioned before that I’m not particularly fond of making resolutions, but two websites I frequent, Yoga Journal and WordPress, both run challenges at the start of the year (or month) that make it easier for people like me to stay motivated.

WordPress, for instance, has a challenge encouraging bloggers to write at least one post a day or one post a week. I didn’t officially sign up, but I do find it interesting that they recognize how bloggers think and work. Hopefully, I can stick to it passively. I do want my posts to be meaningful, not written just for the sake of posting.

I did, however, sign up for the Yoga Journal Challenge, which started today. It’s an invitation to “get back on the mat” and practice yoga for 10–20 minutes a day, or even up to 45 minutes if time allows. The first session was meant to be a full 45-minute practice, though I managed only about 20 minutes. Still, it felt good to begin, and I’m hoping to finish the rest later today. Let’s hope I don’t jinx it by writing about it here.

As part of today’s challenge, there was also a breakfast or post-practice smoothie suggestion courtesy of Vegetarian Times. It’s a great way to start the day with a good balance of protein, fiber, and omega-3s. I adapted the original recipe slightly by using non-fat blueberry Greek yogurt instead of plain yogurt and honey.

Ingredients

  • 1 ripe banana
    (You may also use frozen banana as suggested in the original recipe; if so, ice isn’t necessary)
  • 1 cup non-fat blueberry Greek yogurt
  • 1/2 cup frozen or fresh blueberries
  • 1/4 cup vanilla soy milk
    (Plain soy milk works as well)
  • 1/4 cup vanilla pecan granola with chia seeds
    (Any granola can be used)

Method

Blend all the ingredients in a blender until smooth. The more powerful the blender, the better the texture will be. I used a Vitamix—my favorite kitchen appliance and one of the most powerful blenders available—but this smoothie can easily be made in any good blender.

If using a Vitamix, start at variable speed 1 and gradually increase to 10, then switch to high and blend for about 2–3 minutes, or until completely smooth.

A simple, nourishing smoothie that works perfectly as a post-yoga refuel or an easy, satisfying breakfast.