Energy Boost Almond Shake

Many of us don’t realise just how exhausted we really are and it isn’t until we actually slow down and begin to take proper care of ourselves that we become fully aware of how depleted the body is.

Our society is based on fast paced lifestyles, where busyness and productivity is a measure for success. Extreme tiredness can often result in a desire to consume high amounts of caffeine or refined sugar, simply to get through the day. This then leads to an energy crash and leaves you feeling even more depleted than before. It’s a cycle that can be difficult to break but the good news is you only have to make small changes one step at a time to see a positive impact on how you are feeling.

Winter is a time when energy levels are often low and the darker shorter days can leave you feeling tired and lack lustre. During these times it’s important to choose food that supports your digestion and warms your body. This will leave you feeling much more energised and you won’t experience the crash that you often get from refined sugar or energy drinks.

This recipe is inspired by an Ayurvedic Ojas shake. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian mode of healing and Ojas refers to the immune system. Both dates and almonds help to restore your ojas leaving you feeling balanced and grounded.

This delicious almond based drink helps to restore your energy and vitality. It’s great to drink first thing in the morning for breakfast to enhance stamina and vitality for the day ahead. It helps to restore your energy and vitality by providing your body with a natural source of sugar and healthy fat.

It’s very simple to make, all you need is a high speed blender and a few simple ingredients.

This shake is sweet and creamy and tastes similar to a caramel milkshake. It’s a wonderful choice particularly in the winter and autumn months when your body needs more warming foods. If you are a smoothie lover and miss having regular smoothies in the winter, try adding this your diet as a substitute. It’s deeply nourishing and supports your digestive system with the addition of cinnamon and warm plant based milk.

Next time you are feeling exhausted or suffering from a touch of the winter blues give this shake a try. Use it as a reminder to slow down, sit quietly and take a few moments to be mindful. Listen closely to how your body is feeling and truly honour what it is that you need. If it is deep rest, take time for deep rest.

In order to live life to the fullest, we need balance and in order to obtain balance we need to slow down and enjoy the process of just being. It is a way of practicing self love and within that you will find a deeper sense of restoration and vitality. In order to do all things with love and enthusiasm we need energy and the best source of energy comes from nurturing your body with food that nourishes your cells and leaves you feeling great.

Ingredients

1 cup almond milk (or your favourite plant based milk)

3 medjool dates

8 raw almonds, soaked for a few hours or overnight

1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon

1/8 teaspoon ground cardommon

Pinch of nutmeg

Directions

Put the milk and spices in a saucepan and bring to the boil on a low heat. Simmer for a couple of minutes.

Blend the warm milk with the dates and almonds until smooth and creamy.

Pour into a glass and drink straight away.