I can't speak for anyone else, but it feels to me as if the seasons are flying by and almost out of nowhere the sun has reached its peak of intensity and heat—it is officially summertime!
With the penetrating warmth of the sun shining down throughout the day, I am constantly looking for ways to stay cool and refreshed. Being pitta predominant, I'm reminded of what my teacher, Dr. Vasant Lad, always says to us in class about this time of year:
“Enjoy the sun—in the shade.”
Ayurveda offers plenty of ways to do just that. By bringing qualities that are cooling, hydrating, and soothing into our days through the foods and activities we choose, we can enjoy the bountiful and expansive energy of summertime without overheating.
Along with other delightful and sensuous pitta-balancing practices like moon bathing, calming yoga poses, and submerging in cool water, one of my favorite ways to stay hydrated and refreshed is with tasty, chilled beverages.
Keep in mind that staying cool in the summer doesn't necessarily mean icing our beverages. In fact, we want to keep our drinks closer to room temperature. Why? Our agni, or digestive fire, tends to be weaker in the summer than in the winter. To keep our digestion strong and healthy, we don't want to douse it with beverages that are too cold.
A Look at the Ingredients
The lime and mint both have cooling effects on our bodies to keep us chill and relaxed from the inside out. The maple syrup is cooling and sweet, which helps calm excess pitta.
The chia seeds are both cooling and hydrating, providing extra moisture to our tissues. You'll notice that they plump up and add an element of fun, juicy texture to this drink. Lastly, just a touch of warming ginger helps kindle agni and makes this beverage easy to digest.
This recipe is quick and easy to make and can be enjoyed in either sun or shade. It's the perfect treat for body and soul—especially on those extra hot, scorching summer days.
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.
Pour into your favorite glass, add a sprig of mint, and enjoy this cooler in a peaceful, shady spot!
