Mudra

Image sourced from yogibe

Mudra is a sanskrit word meaning 'gesture'. They can be thought of as a seal for energy flow.

Some mudras are as complicated as involving the whole body through asana (posture), pranayama (breath), bandahs (energy lock) as well as visualisation. However the most common mudras are a simple hand position.

The text Asana Pranayama Mudra Banda says that mudras should be introduced later in practice, once proficient in asana, pranayama and bandha - as these practices help clear gross blockages.

Through practicing mudra, yogis develop awareness of energy flow through the body. It is said that mudras help to manipulate prana by diverting it to the upper chakras, as opposed to it leaving the body and dissipating.

In this same text there is a section on a scientific view point of mudras. It is explained that mudras act as a subtle, non-intellectual connection between the position of the hand and the mind. Different mudras set up different links and which effects the body differently. Over time repetition of the gesture can immediately bring the practitioner to a more refined state of consciousness.

One way to think of it is if you were to meditate over and over again with your hands in a certain position, your body learns than when you place your hand in this way, you will be meditating. 

Eventually, whenever you take this hand gesture, your mind begins to go into meditation mode.

 

Chocolate truffles

These are rich and fudge-like thanks to the raw medjool dates. The dates also give the sticky caramel texture. I tend to add more raw cacao as it gives the very intense dark chocolate flavour. You could add spices - maybe chilli, cardamom or cinnamon...

 

Choosing raw cacao powder makes these satisfying treats more nutritious. It is less processed and contains twice the amount of antioxidants found in traditional cocoa from roasted beans. It is one of the best sources of magnesium found in nature. Raw cacao also contains phenylethylamine which helps to lift mood and enhance mental well-being. Excellent!

I mentioned the caramel texture of dates - this also means they are high in fruit sugar so keep this in mind... But there really isn't much processing involved so let's embrace them!

Dates contain folate, vitamins A, K and the B's as well as selenium, potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese and copper.

Ayurveda teaches that dates are cooling, sweet and satvic (bring a calm, serene quality). They nourish the immune system and tissues, but are also considered 'heavy' so you shouldn't consume too many in one go or it will be too hard on your agni (digestive fire).

If you have a dominant kapha constitution go easy on dates due to their heavy, cool quality. They could make you feel more sluggish.

Chocolate truffles

10 plump juicy fresh medjool dates, pitted

3 or 4 tablespoons of raw cacao powder

1 tablespoon of raw coconut oil or ghee

A tiny pinch of quality sea salt (I used Celtic sea salt)

Extra raw cacao to coat

Blend the dates and raw cacao until smooth. Next add the coconut oil/ghee and pulse to combine well. Roll into balls and coat with extra cacao powder. These are rich so keep them small.

Oat, chia, vanilla and coconut porridge

In Winter, I love having porridge with warming spices such as ground cinnamon and ginger. 

This morning there was a slight feeling of Spring in the air which inspired me to alter my porridge slightly... This was delicious!

Oat, chia, vanilla and coconut porridge

1 cup of rolled oats

2 tablespoons of chia seeds

2 cups of coconut milk or coconut cream

The beans from one vanilla bean, or a pinch of vanilla powder

A pinch of good quality salt (I used celtic sea salt)

2 teaspoons of ghee (more if you like!)

Raw honey to sweeten

Activated almonds, chopped, to serve

Milk of your choice to serve if desired

The night before, cover 1 cup of oats and 2 tablespoons of chia seeds with water and allow to soak overnight.

The next morning give the oat mixture a good stir. Place in a saucepan with the coconut milk/cream and stir occasionally over low heat. Allow to cook slowly until the oats have lost most of their shape. You may need to add more coconut milk/cream or water if it starts to stick. Add vanilla, salt and ghee and stir to combine. 

Ladle into bowls. Drizzle with raw honey, pile almonds and serve with your choice of milk if desired.

 

A cuppa... and a moment of mindfulness

 Image sourced from Pinterest

Being mindful is simply giving all your awareness to one task, so you can practice it doing just about anything.

Your morning tea or coffee is a perfect chance to try...

If you've made it yourself, use a pretty cup to present it nicely.
Sit somewhere pleasant, and start by appreciating the look and aroma. Perhaps it's steaming if it's a little cool this morning? If you are in a cafe, wait quietly for it to arrive and appreciate the surroundings. Try not to grab your phone or another distraction.

Hold the cup in your hand for a moment and notice it's warmth on your hands.

Take a sip and notice the feeling on your lips, in your mouth and down your throat.

Appreciate the taste and texture.

Sip slowly in this fashion. If you are alone, it may be easier to focus. If you are with other people you can still chat... just stay mindful as you sip.

Once you have finished, sit for a moment. Observe your surroundings and feel grateful for the little ritual you have just had.