A Simple Celebration: A Vegetarian Cookbook for Body, Mind, and Spirit

In A Simple Celebration, Ginna Bell Bragg, chef at the Chopra Center for Well Being in La Jolla, California, and Dr. David Simon, director of clinical programs for the Center, explore the spiritual and mindful aspects of cooking and offer a practical, easy-to-use vegetarian cookbook that incorporates Ayurvedic health care principles into more than 140 delicious recipes.  

While many recipes in A Simple Celebration have a subtle Indian influence, Bragg and Simon include a variety of other cuisines as well, resulting in a balanced, health-enhancing diet. With recipes such as Warm Wild Rice Salad, Pasta with Madeira Mushroom Sauce, Ginger-Molasses Muffins, and French Apple Cake, it is clear that the ancient mind-body principles of Ayurveda can be readily applied to dishes from every culture.

Supporters of Ayurvedic health care, Bragg and Simon emphasize in A Simple Celebration the importance of understanding one's dosha, or body type. Dosha recommendations are given for each recipe in the book, and a chart is provided that describes the taste quality of common vegetables, fruits, herbs, spices, dairy products, and other foods.

Ginna Bell Bragg's interest in personal growth led her to work at the Rainbow Ranch in Calistoga, California.  Today, she continues her development of Ayurvedically balanced meals and cooking classes as the chef and nutritional expert at the Chopra Center for Well Being.  Dr. David Simon has studied Ayurveda with Dr. Chopra for more than ten years. He oversees the research wing of the Institute and provides direction for all clinical programs offered at the Chopra Center for Well Being.