MACHETE Spotlight: Jenné Claiborne
Jenné Claiborne, renowned vegan chef and founder of the acclaimed Sweet Potato Soul blog, offers insightful and inspiring health and wellness guidance.
12.09.24
Tags: food blog, plant based, recipes, vegan

Q: What advice do you have for someone who wants to start eating vegan?

My advice is to try a few vegan recipes each week. It may be fun to find a veganized version of your favorite non-vegan meal. But whatever you do, don’t fall down the trap of eating ultra-processed vegan foods. These store-bought foods may be delicious and convenient, but they are highly processed, not nutritious, and expensive. 

Q: What’s your go-to recipe that always makes you feel amazing?

Tempeh Tikka Masala!

Q: What’s a fun or quirky wellness habit you have that others might find surprising?

I tape my mouth closed when I sleep. Not every night, but 50% of the time; basically when I feel I need an extra layer of sleep support. It helps me sleep more deeply, because I don’t wake myself up at night by switching from nose to mouth breathing. Mouth breathing any time of day, unless you're sick or exercising, is not good for you, so a tiny bit of medical tape will do wonders for your sleep and overall health. 

Q: Can you share your daily wellness routine and how it contributes to both your physical and mental health?

My daily wellness non-negotiables include: Prayer and gratitude throughout the day.  At least 90 minutes of exercise—most days of the week this includes yoga and/or tennis, plus walking. Lots of water. Turmeric latte before bed or anti-inflammatory latte in the morning. At least 4 hours outside, even if that means taking my laptop to the porch to work. Nourishing healthy food all day. 

Q: What are your top three beauty products that you believe everyone should have in their skincare routine, and why?

Aztec Clay mask— it’s the best for deep cleaning the skin, getting rid of blemishes, and it can be used all over the body. I also love the Lotus Moon Vitamin B Hydrating Gel.

Q: What are some wellness habits you’ve adopted that have made the most significant difference in your overall well-being?

My go-to stress release, if not working out, is a glass of water with higher dose detox drops before heading into gratitude and prayer, practicing yoga, eating a healthy diet, and spending lots of time outside everyday have had the most profound impact on helping me become a truly joyful person. My red light sauna and listening to the daily mediation from the Open app with my phone on do not disturb. 

Jenné's MACHETE Picks