Here in Vermont we have already seen a few decent snowfall this winter. Of course, just mentioning the word snow, my mind automatically drives sledges and inevitably comes to think of that hot head of hot chocolate excursion. I think it is safe to say that for most people hot chocolate generates many nostalgic memories of childhood. While Swiss Miss served me well in my youth, I now prefer a healthier, medicinal version of this favorite winter drink.
Winter is Vata Season and hot chocolate is a great antidote for the cold and fresh weather that happens outside. Naturally cold, dry and light, Vata Dosha is pacified by sweet, warm, oily, heating and earth substances. Together, the ingredients in Ayurvedic hot chocolate serve as a balm for the often harsh reality of winter.
Warm milk is especially favorable at this time of the year, especially if you feel unfounded and worried. In Ayurveda, milk (preferably organic and raw) is considered a sattvic food. Sattva is the quality of virtue and goodness. Sattvic Food helps to create balance, stability and harmony. Milk is said to help build all seven tissues while calming the mind, nerves and emotions.
In our recipe from Ayurvedic hot chocolate we use four important ingredients: Ashwagandha, Cinnamon, Ginger and Cacao. Let’s see them briefly.
Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb that is often called the Indian ginseng. Even considered Sattvic, it is one of the best rejuvenation herbs for muscles and bone marrow, as well as for people with Vata Constitutions. Ashwagandha is often prescribed to people with weakened circumstances and lack of tissue. It is highly recommended for those who are overworked, have no sleep or simply exhausted. Ashwagandha is soothing and promotes deep, dreamless sleep. This herb heats, a perfect choice for the winter, but must be avoided in the summer.
Cinnamon Is also heating and stimulates blood circulation, which helps to warm up those fingers and toes. It also helps with digestion and opens the respiratory system. Likewise, Ginger Promotes healthy digestion and blood circulation. Because of the health benefits, ginger is sometimes called the universal “healer”.
Finally, CocoaThe raw form of chocolate is full of health benefits. It is full of calcium and antioxidants and therefore supports cellular health. Cacao is one of the highest sources of vegetable iron, perfect during the cold months when we need that extra food boost. It also has magnesium, which ensures a healthy heart and brain. It is thought that cocoa is working to raise the mood naturally, a great antidote for the lack of sunshine during these winter months.
Together these ingredients come together in a perfect winter drink. Prepare a cup to warm up, calm the mind, feed the body and create strength and strength. Winter is in full swing – let this Ayurvedic hot chocolate be your hero this season.
Ayurvedic hot chocolate
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of organic full milk or milk alternative
- 2 t -ahorn syrup
- ¼ cup of cocoa powder
- 1 teaspoon of cinnamon
- ¼ teaspoon of land ginger (optional)
- Bottleneck of ground cardamom (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of Ashwagandha
Route description:
- Heat the milk over medium heat in a medium -sized saucepan.
- Beat maple syrup and cocoa powder until well mixed and heated.
- Remove from the heat, beat in herbs and Ashwagandha – beat until it is frothy.
- Serve with a sprinkle nutmeg or cayenne if you like a small staircase.
Writer Lauren Sauer graduated from the Kripalu school of Ayurveda and a certified 500 hours of Kripalu Ayurvedic yoga teacher. As an Ayurvedic health adviser, she is passionate about teaching others to become their own health care lawyer, to live with the rhythms of nature and simply delay and breathe. She currently lives in the beautiful Berkshires as an intern at the Kripalu school of Ayurveda.
Only for educational purposes. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a disease or to sell a product.
Only for educational purposes. This information has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent a disease or to sell a product.
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