Regardless of the time of year, one of my favorite nighttime rituals is a warm beverage right before bed. It helps me feel nourished, and depending on the strains of the day, can help with my emotional state as well. Here are some of my favorites:
1) Ceremonial Hot Chocolate by Heng Ou is inspired by Shell Walker Luttrell, an Arizona midwife who prepares a hot cacao and cornmeal beverage for new mothers immediately after childbirth. I read Ou’s cookbook, The First Forty Days: The Essential Art of Nourishing the New Mother, during my postpartum doula class, and I’ve been drinking this decadent hot chocolate ever since. Make this drink when you’re feeling indulgent or marking a special occasion.The cornmeal does add texture, so I recommend blending the finished product (otherwise, it can be a bit chunky.)
Style it with: Feather-trim pajamas, OUAI hair mask, “That Old Black Magic” by Ella Fitzgerald
2) Golden Milk by Jasmine Hemsley includes all of the cozy spices – cinnamon, nutmeg, ginger and cardamom. She offers quite a few ingredient options, but I prefer oat milk, molasses and ghee. It’s so replenishing and relaxing. The recipe is for one person, but you could make a larger batch for the week and reheat a single serving each night.
Style it with: Barefoot Dreams cardigan, Herbivore body oil, “River” by Leon Bridges, a cozy fire
3) Self-Love Potion by Good Witch Kitchen is truly a treat. You might need to plan ahead for some of the ingredients (like hibiscus and rose petals). Worth it.
Style it with: Silk pajamas, hot pink lipstick, “Stupid Love” by Lady Gaga
4) Ginger tea by Yogi is as easy as it gets. This tea comes packaged as a tea bag, so if I’m short on time or traveling, this is my go to. It’s also my favorite if I’m feeling particularly scattered, overwhelmed or anxious, because it’s incredibly grounding.
Style it with: Lake pajamas, homemade honey face mask, goop podcast, a journal
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