Source: Sakara Life (use code “XOJOSIE” for 20% off!)

I live for my iced cold brew as much as the next girl, but caffeine–we need a serious break. Not to hate on coffee (it is full of antioxidants and other health properties!), but my adrenals are fatigued as hell. Caffeine causes a spike in cortisol, which is fine when we’re going into a workout or say running from a tiger, or even when we’re leading an otherwise non-stressful life, but when we’re in a chronic state of cortisol release, cortisol tells the body to stop putting energy into other functions (such as digestion and self-healing mechanisms), causing health issues and overall adrenal fatigue. But there is good news: If your daily cup of coffee gives you true joy (instead of just habit or anxiety), or you don’t feel effects of adrenal fatigue (low libido, low energy, anxiety, brain fog, trouble sleeping, cravings, etc.) you do you. If you do feel the effects of coffee or are over the need for caffeine running your life, replace the ritual with something that is not only just as delicious, but is one of the most powerful superfoods on the planet: a cacao latte. No, seriously: cacao and the other ingredients in my go-to morning cup are so powerful, they can help regulate your metabolism, reduce inflammation (including inflammation in the skin, gut, etc.), improve energy, and increase the body’s self-healing properties in less than a few weeks of consistency.

But I certainly didn’t invent this latte or discover the medicinal purposes: Ancient Native Mesoamerican cultures had cacao ceremonies as religious rituals, meant to lift the spirit and provide spiritual awakening. It also was used for celebrating birth and had energetic properties associated with motherhood (which is why cacao ceremonies are often used for rebirth and new beginnings and new beginnings today). In fact, the word “cacao” comes from the Mayan words “Ka’kau” meaning “heart blood.” Cacao has been used for thousands of years for its medicinal, grounding, and heart-opening properties.

Benefits:

Doubles stem cells (which is key as we age–it’s the body’s repair system)
Loaded with extremely powerful antioxidants, which protects cells
Reduces inflammation
Promotes healthy weight management by activating thermogenesis, which supports lipid metabolism and efficiently burns fat
Improves energy and libido
Promotes healthy blood sugar levels and hormonal health (especially when replacing coffee)
Packed with minerals (like magnesium and iron)
Grounding and heart-opening energetic properties

The Recipe:

1 scoop of Sakara Metabolism Powder (use code “XOJOSIE” for 20% off) or high quality cacao powder (note: if you are using a cacao powder, make sure it is raw cacao, no sugar added, and preferably organic)
1 tsp maca
1 tablespoon coconut milk or coconut milk powder (the healthy fats are amazing, but you can also use coconut oil and any milk of choice)
hot water
optional: sweeteners, such as 1 tsp honey, organic maple syrup, or monkfruit

Directions: Whisk powders with the coconut milk and sweetener (to make it extra creamy) and then add hot water to top of the cup. Enjoy as a ritual, like while meditating or sitting outside and reading morning pages.