Get to Sleep Early, Here's a Recipe to Help

Make time to get good rest.  

This is a time of year when our bodies naturally need more sleep.  According to Ayurveda, we don't all need the same amount of sleep, but ideally we all wake up feeling refreshed in the morning.  The ideal bed time is considered to be10pm.  Past 10pm, it's easy to get a second wind.  Our body cleans house each night while we slumber.  That second wind is the fuel that your body wants to use to cleanse your organs.  Using that power to stay up and check more things off of your to-do list means your organs will stay dirty.  Eating an early and light dinner makes it easier to wind down earlier - as does avoiding your computer after 8pm.  You don't need to aim for perfection with this right off the bat - put the intention in place and work toward gradually hitting the mark.

Below is a recipe for Herbal Chai, an Ayurvedic classic.  This caffeine free version is a nice way to end your day and encourage a solid sleep.

Add the following to a small pot:
       1-2" piece of ginger chopped thin
       add 4-5 cardamom pods
       5 whole peppercorns - omit if you’re easily overheated
       3 whole clove
       1 crushed cinnamon stick
       6 cups of water

Bring to boil then low boil uncovered for 20 minutes

Just before it's done add:

        1/4-1/2 tsp turmeric
        ½ cup of milk of any kind (optional)  

If using animal milk gently bring to a low boil and then turn it off right away.  
Keep a close watch because the milk will boil over easily.
Strain the liquid into your mug.

Sweeten with honey or maple syrup to taste (optional)

Makes about 2 servings.

Let us know if you try this recipe and share your thoughts in the comments below!