There is nothing quite like retreating from the concrete confines of the city and leaving the to-do list for the wide open spaces of nature’s bounty.
I recently returned from a 5 day retreat at Grail Springs Retreat Centre for Wellbeing in Bancroft, Ontario. The founder of this magical place is Madeleine Marentette, a woman dedicated to serving others and someone who can calm storms and lift spirits.
I want to share big news with you guys: I am building my very own production facility! This has been a long time dream of mine and before entering this new phase I took a week of relaxation here to process all that has led me here, to understand the implications of my new venture and to nourish me before bury myself in getting it set up.
I went with a good friend and w met the nicest people including staff and guests. It was, as the Grail Springs folks would say a time to “fill your cup”.
I can’t say enough about the experience. The grounds are breathtaking. There is a gorgeous still lake, verdant forest and hiking trails, indoor and outdoor eating, boating and the list goes on. The wellness facilities are both usual – such as sauna, chi machine and massage therapies and unusual – a scared labyrinth, a teepee and a medicine wheel.
The internet service is close to none but that was OK by me and everyone else who comes here because the soul-purpose of being here is to replenish, recharge and restore healthy feelings. The whole team of coaches, healers and instructors that I met really seem to dedicate themselves to that end.
Only a month in and designed by Australian’s Spa Consultant Chef Samantha Gowing, the concept behind the cooking is that FOOD IS MEDICINE so we ate food that is healing. Almost everything at Grails is gluten-free and if you require a special diet due to allergies, they are happy to oblige. The menu is mostly vegan with the exception of goat cheese, yogurt and eggs and the food is made fresh daily. Chef Martin and his staff understand cross contamination and go out of their way to make sure everything is safe.
For more about this incredible oasis of calm: http://www.grailsprings.com
Their new cookbook, a love of 3 years’ work, was launched this past June….check it out! For now, the shipping is free…. http://www.grailsprings.com/the-grail-marketplace
Chef Paul’s favorite recipe from the book is Raw Chocolate Chili Truffles and so I figured why not sign off by leaving you with this yummy recipe to make at home. Enjoy!
Raw Chocolate Chili Truffles
¾ Cup coconut oil
¾ Cup agave nectar
½ Cup cocoa powder
1 teaspoon Himalayan salt
½ teaspoon pure vanilla extract
Dash of cayenne or chili pepper
Preparation
In a food processor mix all ingredients except coconut oil. Melt the coconut oil on a stove top or in a bowl of hot water. Once melted, add to the ingredients in food processor and blend until smooth. Pour chocolate into a piping bag or a plastic bag with the corner snipped off. Pipe out a line about an inch thick onto a nonstick surface (parchment paper works great or a nonstick baking sheet). Place into the freezer to harden. Once they are solid, cut into desired sizes. Be careful about handling them, as they are very heat sensitive. Sprinkle with Himalayan salt for a surprising taste sensation! Enjoy!
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