As part of the Winter Wellness Wednesdays we offer you this warming masala chai. If only the smell of the spices could come through this post!

Making Masala Chai tutorial: created because you always say how much you love it.

Special thanks to the people who have taught me the 'chai secrets' over the years, all of which I've shared in this video.

This video was made during lockdown. I say that drinking the chai is a lovely time to stop, be present and mindful. This is true. We mostly enjoyed chai as part of our Satsangs & Retreats. Being with our yoga community is so uplifting and we plan to continue offering this. If you are not already, then join our newsletter list to be informed.

Spices are so good for us.

Cardamon

Cardamon, the main spice in this tea, has iron, magnesium and vitamin C in it. While it is of a cooling nature, it is very good for digestion and has anti inflammatory properities.

Ginger

Ginger, is very warming. Excellent for digestion and has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects that fully support the immune system. It's heat is also a bit of a mental pick me up.

Fennel seeds

Fennel seeds are rich in iron and calcium plus vitamins C, E & K. Fennel seeds are a good support for the digestive system. They have properties that help to clear the sinuses and they offer bronchial relaxation that helps to reduce symptoms of asthma, bronchitis and congestion.

Cloves

Cloves are warming and a rich source of manganese, high in anti-oxidants and have antiseptic and antiinflammatory properties. This means they have a lot to offer to support the immune system.

Cinnamon

Cinnamon is warming and has anti-inflammatory, anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-fungal properties! Wow! It also helps to lower blood sugar.

Black Pepper

Black pepper is warming. I think this ingredient as well as the ginger gives a heated punch to chai that is a great energy booster. Black peppers have been in use for centuries for their anti-inflammatory and anti-flatulent properties (supporting good digestion). They contain a good amount of minerals like potassium, calcium, zinc, manganese, iron, and magnesium.

Star Anise

Star anise is warming. Star anise has long been used as medicinal remedies for the common flu, bacterial infections, as a mosquito repellent along with improving digestion and sleep quality.

Basics & Extras

A basic masala chai is with cardamon, clove, ginger and tea.

I've had chai with rose petals and coriander seeds for cooling (Queensland masala). I've had it with a little turmeric. Plus I've added turmeric instead of tea, it's good. Ayurvedically speaking I guess you can create a chai that suits your personal constitution.

Which tea and milk do I use? I am a believer in that the way we spend money has a flow on effect to shape the kind of world we live in. I'm using Australian owned, grown and manufactured products. Ethical and organic where possible.

Sweeteners. If you are using honey then add it to the chai after the chai has been strained into the cup it will be served in. Heated honey loses it's medicinal properties and becomes toxic. I personally prefer sugar as it is more traditional. To make it slightly more healthy choose an unrefined sugar.

Yes I am a chai snob! :))) Hope you enjoy.

written by Larissa Gita

Yoga in Daily Life Melbourne