Cool Fall Mornings and Evenings - Lattes anyone?

I've been enjoying giving Ayurveda Bliss Treatments for the past three weeks at the Sivananda Ranch.  If you ever wanted to experience an ashram with delicious food a warm and cozy feeling of spirit and amazing terrain, I'd highly recommend visiting the Ranch.  Fall colors and cool temperatures are greeting me daily in the Catskill Mountains of New York, and I am soothed by warm drinks. Tea is my go-to favorite, but there are some lovely drinks that have pretty powerful heath benefits too. 
Thank you to Lorilee Gillmore who shared these delicious latte recipes in a Banyan Botanicals post.  Energy for the morning and peaceful rest for the evening - Ashwagandha has it all.

Good Morning Ashwagandha Matcha Latte
Ashwagandha’s powers are accentuated by matcha in this recipe. Matcha, a powdered green tea, is made from the whole tea leaf and is loaded with natural antioxidants, providing a sense of calm while also promoting awareness.
Matcha also contains high levels of an amino acid called L-theanine, which calms muscles. Plus, matcha contains moderate amounts of caffeine for a gentle energy lift. Blend this superfood with the goodness of ashwagandha and you will be ready to take on the day.
Ingredients:

• 2 ounces heated water
• 1 teaspoon matcha powder
• 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
• 1 cup whole grass-fed milk (or substitute, see below for suggestions)
• Maple syrup to taste
• 1 pinch of cinnamon powder

Directions: Add matcha and ashwagandha to a large mug. Pour in water (heated to approximately 180 degrees), and mix vigorously with a whisk until completely dissolved. Stir in heated milk, sweeten with maple syrup to taste, and top with a pinch of cinnamon.

Good Night Ashwagandha Chamomile Latte
​Ashwagandha’s ability to help the body relax into a restful night’s sleep is strengthened in this recipe with the aid of other popular herbs. Well-known as a sleep aid, chamomile (both European and Egyptian) has been consumed for centuries for its calming and relaxing effect on the nervous system. The floral flavors work well in this recipe with the earthy ashwagandha.
Turmeric works its magic while you are sleeping, easing excess heat, boosting the immune system, and supporting healthy intestinal flora. The ginger and cardamom aid the digestive process, while the cinnamon can help to support healthy blood sugar. Nutmeg crowns this golden latte, calming the mind, while also adding its warming and fragrant nature.
Ingredients:

• 12 ounces purified water
• 2 tablespoons dried chamomile
• 1 teaspoon ashwagandha powder
• ¼ teaspoon turmeric powder
• ¼ inch ginger root, chopped
• ¼ teaspoon cardamom powder
• ¼ inch piece of cinnamon
• 1 cup grass-fed milk (or milk substitute, see below suggestions)
• Maple syrup to taste
• 1 pinch of freshly grated nutmeg (powdered is also fine)

Directions: In a small pot bring water to a boil. Add chamomile, ashwagandha, turmeric, ginger, cardamom, and cinnamon. Lower heat to a simmer and cover for 5 minutes. Strain the herbs from the concentrated liquid and pour into a mug.
While the herbs are simmering, bring the milk to a gentle boil. Remove from heat.  
Once the herbs have finished simmering, pour the liquid into a mug while straining out the herbs. Pour milk over the tea. Sweeten to taste with the maple syrup. Add a pinch of nutmeg to finish.
Sip on this delightful drink a half hour to an hour before bed, before you begin your bedtime routine.
Milk Substitutes. Please feel free to use a milk substitute for either of these recipes. A creamier type is recommended, such as coconut, or even macadamia.
You can also use other nut milks as substitutes. I encourage to you choose a substitute that is appropriate for your dosha, be it vata, pitta, or kapha, and to make your own nut milk rather than store bought. It will not contain stabilizers or preservatives and generally be healthier for you. And yummier too!

Lorilee Gillmore is the owner and operator of Moksha Ayurveda Phoenix.
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Namaste
Loving Life and Living Love,
Mary

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