Today in Memphis there is 6 inches of snow on the ground. You read that right. My sister in Austin, Texas has 5 inches in her yard.
One of my favorite periods of my life was an extended stay in New York City during January. You read that right. There was something so magical about the polar opposite (pun intended) season than I am used to in the South that made every mundane task extraordinary. Getting lost on my way to the subway, walking through sludge, cozied up next to strangers, hauling laundry back and forth… it is safe to say I was Will Ferrell’s character in Elf.
This week in Memphis is no different for me: ordinary tasks made extraordinary by the pillowy, white Wonderland in which this Alice finds herself.
To help balance my immune system and add a special flair to this unseasonably chilly weather, I made myself a large batch of yogi tea.
Yogi tea has been around for quite some time and is one of the many gifts Yogi Bhajan has given us. It is a combination of warming spices simmered to both heal the body and give off the most wonderful aroma throughout your home. This tea is especially beneficial during a pandemic by balancing our immune system and keeping our organs healthy.
What’s in Yogi Tea?
- black pepper: blood purifier, aids in digestion
- cardamom: for colon health and to help mitigate symptoms of depression
- cloves: powerhouse for immune and nervous system balancing
- cinnamon: antibacterial, lowers blood pressure
- ginger: warming, excellent for circulation
- black tea: aids peristalsis
Recipe: I recommend making a lot and having it to sip throughout the day
- In large pot, boil 2.8 L water
- Add
- 20 whole cloves
- 20 whole green cardamom pods
- 20 whole black peppercorns
- 7 sticks cinnamon
- 1 inch sliced fresh ginger, or to taste
- Simmer for 20 minutes then add black tea (to caffeinated preference) and steep for 5-7 minutes.
- Optional: add a splash of milk or sweetener.
Enjoy!