Drinks to Cozy Up To

Nothing sets the mood for nestling into the warm comfort of a hot beverage like the frigid temperatures and snowy landscapes that this week has brought upon us. Even as I write this, donning multiple layers of sweaters and fleece, a cat snuggled in my lap, and the quiet beauty of a fresh blanket of snow outside my window, I have a steaming mug of golden milk in hand to help deliver that last bit of coziness. As a fraught year wanes into its final days, there is also something about a warm drink that encourages reflection, allowing us a quiet moment to sift through both the challenging and joyful memories that we’ve lived through these past 12 months. As you gaze out upon the stunning wintry views, gathering beside your partners, children, pets, and roommates as you ring in the hope that a new year brings, know that all of us here at Northwest Life Medicine are rooting for you, and wish that 2022 brings you joy, health, nourishment, and love. And to help enhance those cozy moments of reflection, below are some of our favorite recipes for warm beverages that not only offer comfort, but healing qualities as well.

Golden Milk:

1 tsp ground turmeric

½ tsp ground or fresh ginger (optional)

½ tsp of coconut oil

Honey to taste (optional)

10 ounces of milk/milk substitute

Heat the milk/milk substitute in a small saucepan gently until it starts to steam. Turn heat down to low and add the turmeric, ginger, and coconut oil. Mix well with a whisk and take off heat once well combined.

Benefits: Anti-inflammatory, aids in digestion

Roasted Roots Cocoa:

1/2 tsp ground roasted dandelion root

¼ tsp ground roasted chicory (optional)

1 heaping tsp of cocoa powder

Honey or coconut sugar to taste (optional)

8 ounces of water

Milk/milk substitute as creamer

Simmer the ground roots in 8 ounces of water for 10 minutes. Add the cocoa and creamer and mix until well combined. Take off heat and mix in the honey or coconut sugar.

Benefits: Supports healthy liver and cardiovascular function

Ashwagandha Cocoa:

½ tsp Ashwagandha powder

1-1.5 tsp of cocoa powder

Honey or coconut sugar to taste

10 ounces milk/milk substitute

Slowly heat the milk/milk substitute on low and when it starts to steam add the Ashwagandha powder and cocoa. Heat and whisk until well combined. Take off heat and add the honey or coconut sugar and mix well.

Benefits: Ashwagandha is a powerful adaptogen, helping to decrease heightened stress responses, anxiety, and sleeplessness. Cocoa is anti-inflammatory and has cardiovascular benefits.