Be Calm Cherry Smoothie
One of the beautiful things about adaptogens is that they meet our body where its at. So whether you’re running too high with anxious, racing thoughts, and a wired feeling, or we’ve tipped over into fatigue and malaise, adaptogens can help bring us back to center.
A key way that adaptogens work is by supporting the HPA axis, the communication between the brain and the adrenals ~ and our primary stress response system.
This smoothie has two of my favorites, ashwaganda and rhodiola. See notes at the bottom for more on these two beauties. It’s also sweetened with cherries which are naturally mood enhancing
INGREDIENTS
Be Calm Cherry Smoothie
Serves 1
: be calm cherry smoothie ::
1/2 c cherries, frozen
1/2 c zucchini, sliced + frozen
1/2 small banana, frozen
3/4 c cashew milk
1/2 tsp ashwaganda
1/2 tsp rhodiola
1 tbs cacao nibs
1 tbs hemp seeds
1/2 tsp ceylon cinnamon
1-2 scoops collagen (optional)
METHOD
Blend all ingredients in a blender until smooth.
After blending i topped it with living intentions chocolate granola, coconut, goji berries and a little honey.
ADAPTOGEN NOTES
◦ Ashwaganda ◦
Soothing and calming to the mind, while nourishing the the adrenals. Ashwaganda is especially good for sensitive souls that have a lower resilience to stress and are prone to overwhelm.
I often recommend that those who are truly burnt out with low cortisol levels (this can be tested with a 4 point salivary test) to consider focusing on rhodiola or eleuthero which is better for low cortisol levels. The reason being that some believe ashwaganda can lower cortisol in already low cortisol levels.
Something very unique about this adaptogen is it’s ability to boost thyroid hormones.
◦ Rhodiola ◦
Powerful for stress resilience and calming cortisol release. It uplifts energy and supports cognitive function so it’s wonderful for clarity and focus in the day.
Rhodiola is also well loved by athletes as it increases endurance and recovery.
This is one I avoid is in the evening because of it’s mild stimulating affect, but it’s the same reason I love it in the AM.
◦ Safety Note ◦
While these two are generally considered safe, adaptogens are powerful herbs. Always do your research and find what’s right for your body.