warming autumn TEA

Celebrate the creative order of autumn. This season offers an opportunity to simplify our busy lives, strengthen our bodies with warming foods, and tap into the creative flow that arises from grounding and centering ourselves.

Try to take three deep breaths, in and out, before you eat a meal. Let go. Embrace the present moment. I try to remind myself that 'I am here, nourishing my whole being'.

Autumn foods are sweet, earthy, and cooked longer. Focus on soups, roasted root vegetables, rice, and your favorite fats such as butter, olive oil, sunflower oil and coconut oil.

Try these recipes to strengthen your body and warm your spirit. Both recipes include immune boosting herbs.

Spiced Tea

Based on a chai recipe I learned in India

Spice measurements can be approximated.

• 1/2 gallon water

• 12 whole cloves

• 20 cardamom pods

• 20 black peppercorns

• 4 cinnamon sticks

• 6 inches fresh ginger root, chopped

• a pinch of salt

• 2 Tablespoons astragalus root pieces

• 4 reishi mushroom slices

Boil spices in water for 10-15 minutes. You can save some of this tea in the freezer if you like.

If you are ready to serve it, add 1/3 cup milk (cow, almond, or rice) and raw honey to taste. For a caffeinated version, add 2-3 Tablespoons black tea or 4 tea bags (try English Breakfast). Enjoy!