Breathe SB

For many years, my mornings began with the comforting ritual of brewing a cup of coffee. The rich aroma and the quick jolt of energy it provided were my staples to kickstart the day. However, over time, I noticed that coffee was triggering my anxiety and setting a jittery tone for the rest of my day. I realized I needed a change, a more mindful approach to how I fuel my mornings.

I decided to give matcha latte a try. Unlike coffee, matcha offers a gentle, sustained energy boost without the crash. This green tea powder is rich in antioxidants and contains a unique combination of caffeine and L-theanine, an amino acid known for promoting relaxation and focus. This combination helps me feel energized yet calm, providing a nourishing start to my day.

Switching to matcha has been a game changer. I feel more balanced, my mind is clearer, and my anxiety has significantly decreased. It’s not that I’ve sworn off coffee completely—I still enjoy it from time to time. But now, I listen to what my body truly needs, opting for matcha when I seek a more nourishing and mindful morning routine.

Here’s a simple recipe if you want to give it a try. It may seem like a bit of a longer process than brewing coffee at first, but if you look at it from the perspective that this is your new nourishing ritual, you will enjoy making it every time. Practice some mindfulness while at it. Tips on how to practice mindfulness while making matcha latte under the recipe.

Ingredients:
* 1 tsp matcha powder
* 1/2 cup hot water (not boiling)
* 1 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
* Sweetener (optional)

Instructions:
1. Prepare Matcha: Sift 1 tsp of matcha powder into a bowl to remove any clumps.

2. Mix with Water: Add 1/2 cup of hot water (about 175°F/80°C) to the matcha powder. Use your bamboo whisk to whisk the matcha in a zigzag motion until it’s frothy and well-mixed.

3. Heat the Milk: Heat 1 cup of milk in a small pot or microwave until warm.

4. Froth the Milk: Use your frother to froth the warm milk until it’s creamy and foamy.

5. Combine: Pour the frothy milk into the bowl with the matcha mixture. Stir gently to combine. Add sweetener if desired.

6. Enjoy: Pour your matcha latte into a mug and enjoy!

Make it a mindful ritual!

Set the Scene: Begin by creating a calm and tidy space. Clear any clutter from your kitchen counter and gather all your matcha-making tools—bowl, bamboo whisk, scoop, and matcha powder.

Breathe and Center Yourself: Before you start, take a few deep breaths to center yourself. Feel the air filling your lungs and releasing any tension as you exhale. Allow yourself to be fully present in this moment.

Measure the Matcha: Mindfully measure out your matcha powder. Notice the vibrant green color and the delicate texture of the powder. Pay attention to the sensations as you scoop the matcha and place it into the bowl.

Boil the Water: As you heat the water, listen to the sound of the boiling water. Notice the steam rising and the gentle bubbling. Aim for a temperature of around 175°F (80°C) to avoid burning the delicate matcha.

Mix with Care: Add a small amount of water to the matcha powder. Using your bamboo whisk, gently mix to create a smooth paste. Feel the movement of your hand as you whisk in a “W” motion, creating a frothy, even consistency.

Pour and Whisk: Slowly pour in more water, continuing to whisk. Focus on the sound of the whisk, the feel of it in your hand, and the transformation of the liquid. Notice the color change as the matcha becomes more vibrant and frothy.

Savor the Aroma: Take a moment to breathe in the earthy aroma of the freshly made matcha. Let the scent fill your senses and ground you in the present moment.

Enjoy Mindfully: Sit down with your matcha latte and take a moment to appreciate the effort you’ve put into making it. As you take your first sip, savor the taste and texture. Notice the warmth of the cup in your hands and the sensation of the matcha as it nourishes your body.

Reflect and Appreciate: After finishing your matcha, take a moment to reflect on how you feel. Appreciate the time you’ve taken for yourself and the mindfulness you’ve practiced.