Zaftig (pronounced ZOF-tik) is a Yiddish word that means "juicy, succulent" or pleasing plump. It's a word that describes a lot of women out there, and it was the perfect descriptor for a way of life that former Cincinnati Enquirer Lifestyle and Food editor Nicci Morris wants ladies to embrace.
That's why she created The Zaftig Life web site, blog and ezine. The web site, which is in beta, includes healthy and indulgent recipes, and articles on life, love, entertaining and relationships. Morris designed the site, and wrote its content.
Morris, of Fairfield Township, who describes herself as a "curvaceous size 12," is promoting what she calls "Zaftig Zen," or a complete state of being where women are at their "most confident and beautiful."
"The whole idea is that we're not all meant to look the same. We're not all meant to be a six or a size two. The mission is to encourage women to be healthy," said Morris, formerly a certified fitness trainer. "It's not about deprivation; it's about moderation."
What the Zaftig life is not, she said, is an excuse to overeat or skip the gym.
"It's a delicate balance between giving up and being overly conscious of your weight," she said.
Like many women, Morris said she has dropped and gained weight over the years. She's been unhealthful thin and large, and said she feel's best when her 5'9" frame is around 165 pounds.
Morris soon will publish a Zaftig book, with a focus on wholelistic life balance, and a companion recipe book. They’re set to debut in January 2010.
"It's meant to be a movement, a change in how women and girls perceive themselves," she said.
Writer: Feoshia Henderson
Source: Nicci Morris, creator of the TheZaftigLife.com
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