In a world buzzing with activity, finding moments of tranquility can feel like a luxury. But what if I told you that serenity could be found in a simple cup of tea? Enter Yogi Tea, a warm, aromatic blend that not only tastes aromatic and wonderful but also nurtures the soul. Today, I invite you to embark on a journey of self-care as we delve into the art of crafting this beloved elixir right in the comfort of your own kitchen.

The Origin Story

Yogi Tea traces its roots back to ancient Ayurvedic traditions, where it was revered for its healing properties and ability to restore balance to the body and mind. Originally known as "spiced tea," this concoction was a staple in the yoga community, cherished for its ability to enhance meditation practices and promote overall well-being. I feel like I'm honouring all the great yogis and teachers each time I make it and it's often served at events and yoga workshops, which brings we a big smile! Make a big batch and share it with others. I hope you enjoy... Let me know how it goes down below!

*You'll need:*
A large pot
A strainer
Another pot or container for your tea.

Everyone has been passed a few different recipes' for Yogi tea, I like to follow the below one from my yoga teacher training, which is beautiful, though if your teacher's tea is different try them all and see what you enjoy! 

The Ingredients

To recreate this magical brew, you'll need:

- 10 cups of water
- 10 whole cloves
- 10 whole cardamom pods, cracked
- 10 whole black peppercorns
- 3 cinnamon sticks
- 1 inch fresh ginger root, sliced
- ½ teaspoon black tea (or one tea bag) or you can make without caffeine
- ½ cup milk (dairy-free alternative)
- Sweetener of your choice (honey or maple syrup)

 

The Brewing Process

1. **Bring Water to a Boil**: In a large pot, bring the water to a vigorous boil.

2. **Add Spices**: Reduce the heat to low and add the cloves, cardamom pods, peppercorns, cinnamon sticks, and ginger slices. Let the spices simmer for about 30 minutes, allowing their flavours to infuse into the water. I have heard of grating the ginger into the pot as well... 

3. **Introduce the Tea**: After simmering the spices, add the black tea to the pot. Let it steep for an additional 5 minutes. If you prefer a stronger brew, you can extend the steeping time, but be mindful not to overdo it to avoid bitterness.

4. **Stir in Milk**: Once the tea has steeped, stir in the milk of your choice. This step adds a creamy richness to the tea, enhancing its comforting qualities.

5. **Sweeten to Taste**: Finally, sweeten your Yogi Tea to your liking. Whether you prefer a hint of your local honey's golden sweetness, the earthy richness of maple syrup, or the simplicity of sugar, let your taste buds guide you.

6. **Strain and Serve**: Using a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth, strain the tea to remove the whole spices and ginger slices. Pour the aromatic brew into your favorite mug and savor each sip mindfully.

The Ritual of Enjoyment

Yogi Tea isn't just about the ingredients; it's about the experience. Take a moment to pause, inhaling the fragrant steam that rises from your cup. Allow the warmth of the tea to envelop you, soothing away tension and inviting a sense of calm. As you sip slowly, let go of the worries of the day and embrace the present moment with gratitude.

When I have extra time or a rainy Sunday, I love to make yogi tea, keep the aromatic smell slowly steep in the pot as I practice and then get my special tea set out for following my flow and practice some gratitude 

Feel free to get creative with your Yogi Tea recipe! Experiment with different spice ratios to tailor the flavour to your preferences. You can also adjust the sweetness level or explore alternative milk options for a vegan version. Personalize your brew to suit your mood and nourish your spirit. Add an extra slice of ginger to your cup for a zing! Or break a cinnamon stick for more spice, have a play! 

In a world that often feels chaotic and fast-paced, Yogi Tea offers a gentle reminder to slow down and savour the simple pleasures of life. With its warm embrace and aromatic blend of spices, it's more than just a beverage; it's a ritual of self-care and mindfulness. So the next time you find yourself in need of a moment of tranquility, brew a pot of Yogi Tea, and let its soothing embrace transport you to a state of inner peace. Namaste.