Science & Soul: Reflections from ReCode Portugal
- Shannon Le Mintier
- Oct 26
- 5 min read
Updated: Oct 27
This photo holds so much more than a moment — it reflects the layered dance of what The Genomic Kitchen and Whole Living bring to the table, and what we brought to life together through our ReCode Retreat at Terra Quinta last week.
Rooted in science, yes — that’s where we both begin. Amanda’s work in nutrigenetics is her stronghold — her ability to translate the language of our genes into a deeply personal, empowering path forward is nothing short of masterful.
And still, it’s the soul she brings alongside and infuses into everything she does — the way she embodies her Qigong practice, her grounded and energetic time in nature, her loving and fun partnership with her husband, and devotion and consistent presence with Abby, her loyal dog and gentle trail companion.
She lifts women up — across ages, professions, and seasons of life. That generosity and integrity don’t go unnoticed. I felt it. Everyone at ReCode was moved by it.
Our paths, so similar and yet distinctly our own. We’ve both walked American and European landscapes, shaped by heritage and by choice — finding rhythm and meaning in slow food, strong roots, open skies, and purposeful work.
To weave our distinct passions, experiences, and ways of knowing into something so alive and cohesive — it was a highlight and meaningful professional experience.
From my early years in Santa Barbara catering kitchens and event coordinating luxury events, to advanced yoga trainings and retreats, from decades of functional and integrative nutrition counseling to movement practices grounded in fascia, emotion, and energy — this retreat felt like a culmination of it all. And to share it here, in my host country of Portugal, on land cultivated by love and vision over a decade of co-creation… was a gift beyond words.
We ended our time with a long, laughter-filled debrief and planning session for the next two years ahead. Greece, Italy, Portugal.
Somewhere between a tucked-away café and a seaside drive, I was reminded how much more there always is to discover — in each other, in the land, in ourselves. I’ll be carrying this one in my bones for a long time.
From Retreat to Real Life
Back home, school and work are in full swing. Although we have a few “go-to” Uber Eats (Honest Greens for the win), we mostly cook at home. It saves money — and honestly, we know exactly what we’re fueling our bodies, minds, and spirits with.
As a mom, it’s inspiring to see my grown-and-flown daughter creating balanced, nutrient-dense meals — salmon bowls piled high with colorful vegetables, homemade snacks, and immune-boosting blends. Even my 16-year-old snapped a photo this morning of her tart green juice and ancient-grain sourdough with avocado and egg before hitting the books.
It’s not always perfect — there are plenty of “soup nights” I have batch cooked and frozen when schedules are full and energy is low — but the intention is there. Food as rhythm, as nourishment, as connection.
Whether you’re cooking solo, with friends, or with family—intentionally making a point to gather around the table, even briefly, to share meal or even just time remind us we’re part of something larger. Connected.
If you’re looking for fresh inspiration, our Whole Living Fall Recipe Pack included in The Nourished Practice & Whole Living Journey memberships, offers simple, seasonal ideas to help you return to real food and mindful eating. Here’s one to try:
Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding with Local Honey & Pecans
Pumpkin Chia Seed Pudding with Local Honey & Pecans
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Chill Time: 4 hours
Servings: 4
Ingredients
1 cup milk of choice (we love almond or oat)
½ cup pumpkin purée (not pumpkin pie filling)
1–2 tablespoons local honey, to taste
1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
⅛ teaspoon sea salt
¼ cup chia seeds
Optional: chopped pecans or walnuts, whipped coconut cream, a dusting of cinnamon
Instructions
In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, pumpkin purée, honey, pumpkin pie spice, and salt until smooth.
Stir in chia seeds and whisk again to combine evenly.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours (or overnight) until thickened.
Serve chilled with a sprinkle of cinnamon and a handful of toasted pecans.
Tip: Store leftovers in the fridge for 3–4 days. Perfect for make-ahead breakfasts or afternoon pick-me-ups.
What’s Next?
As we move through autumn, doors are open for:
The Fall ReSet
A functional whole-living reset to restore energy, rhythm and intention as we prepare for the holidays and new year ahead. Four-week guided experience helps you reconnect with your body, values, and natural rhythm.
Through mindful nutrition, movement, and daily ritual, you’ll build habits that feel supportive and sustainable.
You’ll be guided in community with group calls, shared reflection, and gentle accountability that help you stay consistent and inspired.
The Whole Living Membership
As we move through autumn, the Whole Living Memberships are now open — designed as a living, breathing practice for body, mind, and spirit. Each tier offers ongoing support and seasonal connection, so you can choose the level of guidance that best meets your needs in this season of life.
01. The Living Library
A steady way to stay connected through practice
• 15+ classes refreshed seasonally
• Includes Fusion Flow collection
• Discounted drop-in rate (€15 vs €20–25)
€36 per month
02. The Nourished Practice
For those ready to move with the seasons and stay accountable
• 30+ classes refreshed seasonally
• Includes Fusion Flow, Meditation, Yoga Nidra, and Functional Flow collections
• Discounted drop-in rate (€15 vs €20–25)
• Access to weekly livestream class (replay available for 7 days)
• Whole Living Seasonal Guide
• Early access to classes & seasonal pop-ups
€62 per month
03. The Whole Living Journey
Your most immersive option, offering monthly 1:1 mentorship for nutrition, movement, and mindset
Includes all benefits from The Nourished Practice, plus:
• 1 × 30-min private consult each month with Shannon
• Discount on Seasonal ReSet programs
• Early access to retreats
• Personal mentorship & accountability
€128 per month
Each membership is an intentional space to support your well-being, designed for presence, consistency, and growth through every season.
Upcoming Retreats
Our upcoming Immersive Retreats carry this same intention into immersive settings across the Mediterranean — from Awaken in Greece (October 2026), exploring how your biology aligns with your aspirations, to ReNew in Italy (June 2027), a women’s retreat to recalibrate and reclaim your rhythm, and Align in Portugal (October 2027), a journey to harmonize health, connection, and purpose through personalized insight and daily ritual.
If you’re feeling called to reconnect with your rhythm, your energy, or your next chapter — we would love to walk beside you.
Yours in Thrive,
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