Aromatherapy and the Chakras, June 28, 2014

Wild Alberta Roses

Join me at Yoga Within this Saturday from 1-4pm for a fragrant journey through the chakras honoring the earth element with asanas and aromatherapy!

Incense, spices, herbs and flowers have all been used since ancient times to maintain physical health, elevate the mind, and connect to divine essence. 

Uplift and ground your energy through relaxing yoga postures and your sense of smell.  Practice beautiful "scent-ering" rituals, sample an all-natural "body incense", learn how essential oils can enhance your yoga and meditation practice, and more!



Ayurvedic Tea for Your Dosha



Cardamom, Cloves, Licorice, Cinnamon, Roses, and Fennel

 Ayurveda is the sister science of yoga, practiced in India for more than 5000 years.  Some say it is the world's oldest health care system! 

Ayurveda promotes vitality by removing toxins from the body, and harmonizing body, mind and spirit using foods, spices, herbs, and mantras.

You can determine your personal Dosha or constitution by taking this Dosha Quiz from the Chopra Center or this one from Doctor Oz or this one from Yoga Journal.

Ayurvedic teas are a wonderful way to introduce this ancient wisdom to your life.  They are delicious, and easy to make from herbs and spices in your garden, whole foods store, or your favorite Indian grocer.

Here are three recipes that calm and energize the body and mind without caffeine.  They also promote healthy digestive and immune systems. 

Click here for the recipe source and more information about their indications and benefits.

Vata Chai:  Licorice root, cinnamon, ginger, cloves, fennel, and stevia.

Pitta Chai:  Licorice root, rose petals, fennel, cardamom, ginger, and stevia.

Kapha Chai:  Ginger, licorice root, cinnamon, cloves, black pepper, and cardamom.

Drink to your pleasure and health!

Saffron Tea to Brighten Your Day

Saffron Tea, aka "Liquid Sunshine"

Saffron is prized for easing digestive and menstrual pain, lifting your mood and preventing wrinkles.

Studies say it can even lower high blood pressure and prevent the onset of some cancers.

Though saffron is one of the world's most expensive spices, you need so little that this sunny infusion will likely cost less than a cup of tea at your local coffee shop.

What to do:

Place 3-4 saffron threads in a cup. 

Add a little hot water and allow the threads to steep until the brew is bright yellow. 

Add more freshly boiled water to fill the cup.

Enjoy!

Note* You can refill your cup once or twice and still enjoy a flavorful and colorful tea. 

Optional* You can sweeten your tea, but I find the flavor pleasant all on its own.