Calming Teas
A healthy system is one that can return to rest as soon as the threat is over.
Nervine tea can be drunk all day, neither sedative or energetic, to help stay calm in uncertainty. I make a big pot, drink all day, reusing the same herb several times, just adding more water. Just the making of the tea makes me feel good. Setting the intention of picking THAT herb blend makes me slow down and breath a little deeper. These herbs help the entire system relax, move out of the (anti-healing) fight or flight response, and into the healing (rest and digest) phase.
Nervine Teas: Proportion of herb to water: 1 tsp dry or 2 Tbs fresh herb to 1 cup of water.
Oatstraw
Chamomile
Motherwort
Additional Teas to play with:
Lemon balm - a great carrier tea, great with chamomile, very nourishing and comforting, and tastes amazing!
Hawthorne - Great for the heart, known as a peaceful herb!
Strengthening Herbs: (when you need that extra immune boost)
Yarrow: You know that story of Achilles, the ancient Greek God? His mother dipped him in a pond of Yarrow leaves to help bring out his immortal properties. From holding him on his ankles, he was left with a single weak location on his body.
Decoctions (powdered herb boiled down, simmer for 20 min). Used for the more tough parts of plants, roots and barks. I like blending these herbs for strong immunity. Think of these as a bit more bitter, less floral. They were made as the hardier parts of the plants, as its own chemicals to survive. These can taste a bit harsh, but I feel like I am starting to like the bitterness, especially when boiled down. I was told these are highly recommended daily for compound effect over time.
Ashwaganda
Astragalus (can buy organic in bulk in the asian stores!)
Reishi
Massage: You can touch the body to affect the mind, or touch the mind to affect the body. Massage is another great way to relax. And you don’t need a bunch of money to get one. Put on a youtube channel, and take turns with your partner practicing on an area that would feel good to you!
