If I had one word to describe 2020, it would be “uncertainty”. Will we enter into another lockdown? How long will covid last? Who will win the election? Will we be able to spend the holidays with family? Will things ever be normal again?! These are just a few of the thoughts and questions we’ve all had racing through our minds over the last few months. These times are unprecedented, and, unfortunately, we do not have the answers. As an overthinker myself, one of my goals this year has been to find ways to let go, focus on what I can control, and calm my body and my mind. Enter: sips and skincare! 

The ritual of cleansing the skin and sipping a warm cup of tea has such a soothing effect on the mind and body. Amid uncertainty, we are in control of how much rest we allow ourselves, what we drink, the products we use, and whether or not we practice self-care. Developing a healthy, consistent routine that our brain will associate with sleep is a beautiful way to find peace and calm during the chaos of this year. I like to wash my face with lukewarm water, apply a thin layer of my Relax Mud Mask, and sip on my favorite nighttime tea. When I am finished with my tea, I rinse off my mask, let go of the day’s stresses, and head to bed for some restful and revitalizing sleep. 

Join me in prioritizing rest this winter with my favorite tea recipe, which I found in the book “Essential Well Being” by Sara Panton.  

Calming Tea Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 to 3 cups water 
• 1 tablespoon lemon balm (dried or fresh)
• 2 teaspoons peppermint leaves (dried or fresh)
• 1 teaspoon fennel seeds 
• 1 teaspoon lavender flowers (dried)
• 2 slices of peeled ginger (fresh)
• 2 teaspoons liquid honey 
• Unsweetened non-dairy milk (I prefer almond milk)

Directions

1. In a small pot, bring the water to a boil. 
2. Add the lemon balm, peppermint, fennel, lavender and ginger and boil for 5 minutes.
3. Remove the pot from heat and let the mixture steep for 2-4 minutes. 
4. Strain the tea and discard the herbs. 
5. Pour into cup and add honey and almond milk as desired. 

Benefits

• Peppermint, fennel, and ginger promote healthy digestion.
• Lemon balm and lavender calm and soothe.
• All ingredients combine to promote restful sleep. 

*This recipe makes enough for 2 cups of tea. Share a cup with a loved one or store the extra in the fridge (up to 4 days) to reheat later.