I love coffee. But not just any coffee, I appreciate good coffee. I adore a Turkish coffee, an Americano from Dogwood cut with cream top whole milk, or a barista who takes joy in making a proper pour-over. When I travel, I find satisfaction in seeking out a unique coffee. Like in Chicago, Big Shoulders Coffee -- they make the most insane marshmallow latte.
But I've also been noticing that my anxiety levels have been high lately. And I haven't wanted to admit it, but coffee doesn't seem to help matters. So I decided to take a bit of a coffee sabatical. Which means, a temporary T.O. I prefer not to say, "I'll never," because it's just too rigid. I find using the word "never" or "elimination" (for me) lead to a feeling of deprivation which negatively impact the body and mind. So a sabbatical, just felt right.
My 7 fav tea drinks while on sabbatical:
1. Teeccino
I'm not a fan of decaf. But I'm a fan of herbal coffee. I've tried a lot of different options, but I heart Teeccinno. It's satisfying like coffee and it also feels like a treat.
I make a mean tea latte, with almond milk and almond amaretto Teeccino. Lately, I either boil a "tee" bag in a small pot on the stove and then add milk, or brew it in my tea maker. I generally use 3-4 tablespoons in the tea maker and then I have plenty for a day or two. It also has low acidity, so I never worry about curdling.
Other teas I've been fancying:
2. Matcha Tea Latte
I fell for matcha in a fierce way three years ago. I like to buy it bulk from the coop and keep it in the freezer. My sister-in-law recently gave me my first matcha whisk.
Matcha isn't caffeine-free, but it's slightly stimulating without jitters. I'm loving this recipe:
3. Rooibos Chai Latte
Rooibos is rich and satisfying and as an herbal tea -- it's also free of caffeine. Check out a chai rooibos.
4. Turmeric Milk
I love this combo. I either use turmeric root and simmer it in milk with some ginger and a little sugar -- or use turmric powder. I also love Numi's turmeric tea.
5. Lavender Earl Gray
I love lavender: lavender essential oil; lavender chocolate; lavender blueberry cupcakes (I won a Williams Sonoma contest with them); lavender earl grey tea; and of course, lavender earl grey lattes.
6. Rose Milk Tea
Milk tea is where it's at. Rose milk tea is delicate, sweet and nourishing. Perfect for a night cap. My favorite rose tea is made with Tulsi.
7. Yerba Mate
Last but not forgotten. This is my go to when I need a little boost. Yerba mate is earthy and invigorating. Try it with honey and milk.
With spring around the corner I'll be looking forward to cooler beverages -- but for now, I'll stick with my 7 favs. That is, until I decide to end my sabbatical.
xxoo - christine