Today I have great news! I'm partnering up with my amazing and talented friend Maria João from Espaço Vida for a series of culinary workshops focused on preparing our bodies, minds and spirits for the seasonal challenges. The first workshop we´re going to give, "Essenciais de Outono" (in english, Autumn Essentials), will be mainly about strengthening our immune and nervous systems, feeding our bodies to be prepared for the colder weather and identifying the most debilitating factors around us, being it foods or states of mind. The workshop will included some theory, of course, but also a lot of recipe demonstrations, tasting, hands on exercises and a few surprises! We will speak in Portuguese but let me know if you would be interested in us giving one in English.

They say that everyone is born with a gift. Well, my friend Maria João was born with lots of them. This designer turned naturopath came into this world to change the lives of those who cross her path applying natural therapies with an integrated vision of the body, mind and spirit. From Naturopathy, to Homeopathy, Shiatsu, Kinesiology and also Nutrition and Cosmic Healing, there isn't an imbalance that persists her dedication and strength. When she's not submerged in her books or floating in her meditations, she devotes her time exploring her creativity in artistic projects or giving Artistic Expression classes to children. After several years living in Madrid where she studied and began her journey into the world of alternative medicine, Maria João is now living in Lisbon with her family and is the owner of Espaço Vida where she puts to practice her incredible knowledge and skills. More about her here.

One of my favourite things about this workshop is that it will take place at my family house near Azeitão, more precisely in the magical Arrábida Natural Park. I know this will sound suspicious coming from me but the quietness and peacefulness of this house is the perfect environment to get more in tune with what we eat and why.

Here are a few more details:

Check out this event on Facebook and don't miss the opportunity to join us in this beautiful place for a day well spent!! See you in October!