My Secret Recipe for Staying Healthy During the Holidays

Whenever I wake up feeling a little off, I have a secret go-to recipe that gets me back on track that I want to share with you.

Sometimes, like this morning, it's that I'm feeling extra tired, or I might have a tickle in my throat or nose, the precurser to a cold. With three kids, at least one of whom always seems to have a runny nose or cough that won't die, this is not uncommon.

I've learned how insanely important is it for me to listen to these early body signals, and give my immune, circulatory, and digestive systems a boost. I have dozens of Ayurveda-inspired practices I've incorporated into my life that have allowed me to maintain my health and wellbeing throughout a lot of stressors, and this is one of my favorites.

I call it Spice Tea, also known as CCF tea: short for cumin, corriander, fennel. I always add fresh ginger to enhance the flavor and health benefits. It's an ancient, powerful, and easy way to clear and enhance my immune, circulatory, digestive, and lymphatic systems, just when they need it most.

1. It contains natural antioxidants that can help strengthen your immune system, and the spices also have natural anti-carcinogenic and antibacterial properties, so effects may be even longer-lasting if used regularly.

2. It reduces inflammation.

3. It improves digestion.

4. It stokes your metabolism.

5. It restores clam clarity and spaciousness.

Even if you're not a huge fan of the flavors separately, trust me, together they create a lovely, warm brew that you'll love.

Allie's Spice Tea

1 t whole cumin seeds

1/2 t whole corriander seeds

1/2 t whole fennel seeds

2-3 slices fresh ginger

Pour hot water over spices, ideally in a tea strainer, and let seep for 2-5 minutes. discard spices and enjoy hot or cold throughout the day, repeating daily for 2-3 days or up to one week until energy re-balances.