Try this cooling Ayurvedic mock-tail to whet your whistle during the summer months.
“Many individuals reach for iced drinks, popsicles and other frozen treats when the temperatures increase, but these can dampen and harmfully affect the agni or digestive fire,” to quote the Ayurvedic Institute, the organization started by Dr. Vasant Lad.
I recently received a recipe for this Lime Cooler from the Ayurvedic Institute, which thought I’d share it here as well since was so delicious! I adapted it slightly, and served it to the beautiful women warriors in my Self Care for Women workshop last weekend.
“In Ayurveda, agni is often referred to as your digestive fire. Agni governs all metabolic activities in the body and mind so we must keep this fire in balance for vibrant health. It’s also important to note that keeping the body’s temperature cool during this Pitta summer season is as crucial as maintaining a healthy agni.”
Ingredients:
- 1-2 limes (depending on how tangy you like your beverages)
- 2 cups warm water
- 5 teaspoons fresh mint, minced and ground
- 4 tablespoons organic maple syrup
- 1 teaspoon ground chia seeds
- Tiny pinch of ground ginger
Directions:
- Juice the limes and mix all of the ingredients together in a mason jar.
- Let the mint steep into the water for approximately 20 minutes, then drink at room temperature or place in the refrigerator to cool slightly.
How I modified the above: I doubled the limes and water for 6 servings, and only added a little more maple syrup and mint. I didn’t use ground ginger, but brewed some ginger tea instead. I also didn’t use any chia seeds. And, after the mint had steeped, I strained it out entirely. Have fun making it your own.
Pour into your favorite glass, add a sprig of mint, and enjoy this cooler in a peaceful, shady spot! I loved the way this tasted – it wasn’t too sweet, and the tanginess of the lime was smoothed out by the addition of the mint. It was easy to make, and such a treat during a heat wave! Let me know how it goes if you try it.