Natural foods chef Kathy Napleton, is the founder of Nourished Table & Home, a cooking school and wellness space in downtown Hinsdale. She is a certified Nutrition Therapy Practitioner (CNTP) from the Nutrition Therapy Institute in Denver, and is a firm believer in the popular self-care credo, “Let food be thy medicine.” At Nourished, she educates people on cooking to combat a broad range of ailments, including inflammation, thyroid and adrenal disorders, and diabetes. Here, the 20-year resident of Hinsdale shares some of her most memorable lasts:

Last great nutrition find? Anandamide cacao powder! Anandamide is a brain chemical often referred to as the “bliss molecule” for its ability to boost happiness. It’s rich in antioxidants, magnesium and adaptogens—a class of herbs that balances stress and hormones—and helps to improve mood, increase energy and boost circulation. This organic cacao powder tastes great, is easy to use, and makes a delicious cup of hot cocoa or a chocolate smoothie!

Last great nourishing at-home meal? During the cold winter months, nothing satisfies more than homemade soup! I recently added a new favorite to the list: ginger and roasted tomato soup with spiced chickpea croutons. I served this with a wild mushroom sandwich with caramelized onions and a truffle aioli for a simple, yet filling weeknight meal that the whole family enjoyed.

Last great restaurant meal?  I love to support local restaurants that feature seasonal and sustainable menus, and Vie in downtown Western Springs is one of my favorites. Paul Virant’s wild rice stew with preserved tomato, cauliflower, winter squash, shiitake mushrooms, pickled onion buds and sourdough toast was a home run. If you have not been, add this restaurant and menu item to your date night list!

Last great cookbook you added to the shelf? The Kripalu Kitchen: Nourishing Food for the Body and Soul. Written by executive Chef Jeremy Rock Smith, it’s an illustrated cookbook with 125 easy-to-prepare recipes that are revitalizing, detoxifying, and delicious. The Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health is located in the Berkshires of Massachusetts and is North America’s largest yoga-based healing and education center. With wellness at its core, the book is your go-to if you’re looking to expand your repertoire of healthy dishes.

Last great act of self-care? I recently spent five days at Miraval Wellness Resort, an all-inclusive spa and resort in Tucson, Arizona. Set on 400 acres at the foot of the Santa Catalina Mountains, this healing sanctuary is all about balance and living in the moment. Nurturing wellness specialists guide you through mindful experiences that evoke self-discovery, allowing you to “let go” and truly unwind from the chaos of everyday life.