Almost everything will work again if you unplug it for a few minutes, including you.
~Anne Lamott
Happy Lunar New Year! One of my intentions this year is to find small moments throughout each day to pause and rest. It’s so easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of a busy schedule that we often forget to stop and smell the roses. One of my favorite ways to bring a little mindfulness to the mayhem is with a simple cup of tea. Herbal teas can be especially nourishing and grounding. Create a little ritual whenever you find yourself needing a moment of calm. Put your phone down and take a break from your to do list. Find a tea that not only tastes good but also supports you with whatever you need in that moment. Feeling anxious? Try Chamomile or Passionflower. Suffering from indigestion? Peppermint can help. Cold and achy? Reach for the Ginger.
For those of you interested in experimenting a bit, I’d highly recommend the following (you can find them all online at Mountain Rose Herbs or check your local grocery store for the Traditional Medicinals brand.
Nettle Leaf: Nettles build energy, support the kidneys and adrenals, and are rich in bone building nutrients like calcium, magnesium, potassium and zinc. They have wonderful anti-inflammatory properties and are often used to soothe pain or allergies. An excellent source of vitamins A, D, E, and K, this delicious drink keeps the immune system strong during cold and flu season and is a healthy alternative to your morning coffee.
Dandelion Root: Known for its gentle detoxification properties, this tea is wonderfully beneficial for the Liver, Gallbladder, Kidneys and digestive system. Dandelion is used in Traditional Chinese Medicine to relieve inflammation, inhibit dampness and support lactation.
Red Raspberry Leaf: High in magnesium, potassium, iron and vitamins A, B, C and E, Raspberry Leaf Tea is a nourishing mineral-rich tonic. I recommend Red Raspberry tea to many of my pregnant patients during their second and third trimesters for its remarkable ability to both relax and tone the uterus in preparation for birth. It can also be used effectively for menstrual issues, morning sickness and fertility support. Use it as a strong tea or tincture on canker sores or inflamed gums. Externally, it can also ease the symptoms of eczema, sunburn or other skin rash. I love mixing in with nettles and rose hips to boost my energy and immunity