I’m a huge advocate of slowing down and creating balance in all areas of life, but some days it just doesn’t happen.

Some days, my schedule is so full, I’m not quite sure how I’m going to get it all done. My stress level goes up and my hand starts reaching for the chocolate. Sound familiar?

But, when I start down the path of sweet treats, I find my body gets antsy—hello jittery legs! And even though I can’t help myself, I know I’m setting myself up for a crash in the afternoon.

So recently, I’ve been experimenting to create a chocolate fix that picks me up but won’t end in a headache. And, I’m so excited to share the perfect elixir I created!

It’s an energy balancing hot chocolate mix that is designed to give us energy without making us crazy. It works because it is chock full of energy-enhancing, hormone-balancing herbs that will smooth out any pent-up nerves and give our bodies the steady energy they needs to get us through the day.

Let’s just say these are “smart-herbs,” somewhat like our smartphones, but less addictive.

Even better, this recipe creates 8-10 servings of hot chocolate so if you have a husband and kids like me, you can share it with your family, or have a mix that will last you all week. Just add hot water, almond milk & stir!

Here are some nutritional benefits of the herbs included in the recipe. You can purchase these herbs easily at your local health food store or on Amazon if you have trouble finding them locally:

1. Maca is rich in B vitamins, calcium, zinc, iron, magnesium, phosphorous and amino acids. It has also been used to balance the hormones and increase fertility. Some women have used it to alleviate hot flashes, anxiety, mood swings and depression. Some have experienced an increase in energy levels within days of beginning to use maca. It is also known for increasing stamina.

2. Reishi mushrooms can help restore hormonal balance, bring the body back to homeostasis and regulate activity of the immune system, including fighting tumors and cancerous cells. Research shows that reishi mushrooms act like a normalizing substance, regulating various cellular functions and systems including the endocrine (hormonal), immune, cardiovascular, central nervous and digestive systems.

3. Ashwagandha is an adaptogenic herb popular in Ayurvedic medicine that has shown incredible results for lowering cortisol and balancing thyroid hormones. This powerful herb also has the ability to Improve thyroid function, treat adrenal fatigue, reduce anxiety and depression, combat effects of stress, increase stamina and endurance, stabilize blood sugar and boost immunity.

4. Chaga, one of the most powerful antioxidants on Earth, is a super adaptogen that gives the body what it needs to return to its natural state. Chaga acts as both a soothing anti-stress nerve tonic and a powerful cancer fighter. Chaga mushrooms are a source of 200 plus phytonutrients, contain significant amounts of riboflavin and niacin, B and D vitamins, flavonoids, phenols, copper, calcium, potassium, manganese, zinc iron and enzymes. Chaga is also one of nature’s richest sources of the minerals rubidium, potassium, cesium and germanium; everything the body needs to remain alkaline.

So if that wasn’t enough to get you in the kitchen to prepare this easy-to-put-together mix, I don’t know what will! But I know you’re ready for this, so here’s the recipe below:

Energy-balancing Hot Chocolate Elixir

Ingredients

¾ cup coconut sugar
1 teaspoon vanilla powder
½ cup raw cacao powder
1 tablespoon maca powder
1 tablespoon reishi powder
2 teaspoons ashwagandha powder
1 tablespoon chaga mushroom powder
½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
½ teaspoon ground cardamom
½ teaspoon ground ginger
1 ½ teaspoons himalayan pink salt
Plant-based milk

Instructions

Place the sugar in a medium bowl with the vanilla powder and mix thoroughly. Add the remaining ingredients into the vanilla sugar; whisk to completely combine. Unless you plan to make the full 8-10 servings at once, package into one small, air-tight jar for storage. Gently warm the milk over medium-low heat, whisking constantly. Add the powder mix, continuing to gently stir until evenly mixed. Heat to desired temperature and serve in your favorite ceramic or glass mug. Enjoy!

Ratio for a single serving: 1 tablespoon hot chocolate mix to 1 cup plant-based milk (preferably fresh almond milk).

Author: Christine Dyan

Image: Pixabay

Editor: Callie Rushton