It’s a lovely time of the year as we are on the threshold of summer, but if your mood and energy levels do not match the sunny vibes, it can be tempting to reach for coffee or caffeinated drinks for a quick pick-me-up.
However, while this might temporarily lift a sluggish mood, in the long run caffeine depletes energy and hydration levels, disrupts sleep, elevates stress levels, and can even interfere with digestion and the absorption of nutrients.
Here’s a look at some of the alternatives to coffee that will boost your energy, mental clarity and mood naturally, without leaving you jittery, dehydrated and anxious.
Adaptogenic mushroom powders
Organic mushroom powders such as Reishi, Cordyceps, and Lion’s Mane have adaptogenic properties, which means that they can reduce the effects of stress on the body (not to be confused with ‘magic mushrooms’, which can induce hallucinations). They can enhance mental clarity without being too overstimulating, and support sustainable energy levels.
To use, try adding a scoop of mushroom powder to a breakfast smoothie, or stirring it into a herbal tea. They can also be sprinkled directly onto foods such as soups, salads, and pasta.
Ayurvedic powders
Ayurvedic herbs have been used for centuries as part of Ayurveda, a traditional system of medicine that evolved in India. The word Ayurveda comes from Sanskrit “Ayur” meaning life and “Veda” meaning knowledge or science, so it literally means “the science of life.”
Ayurvedic herbs are plants, roots, spices and minerals that are used to support the body’s healing processes, balance energy levels, and promote better overall mental and physical wellbeing. Herbs such as Ashwagandha, Shatavari, and Tulsi (Holy Basil) have traditionally been used to regulate stress levels, promote restful sleep, and improve mood.
They are available in powder form, and can be stirred into hot drinks, smoothies or cereals.
Herbal teas
Organic herbal teas such as Hibiscus and Matcha may help to lower stress levels and promote greater calm and mental clarity. Hibiscus flowers have a delicate fruity flavour, and are a traditional tea blend from Asia.
They may also be beneficial for promoting healthy skin and hair, supporting the digestive system, and are also rich in vitamin C and antioxidants. Matcha tea does contain caffeine, but it is much less acidic and dehydrating than coffee, and it has many other health benefits. For example, it’s exceptionally high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.
For a wind down routine in the evening, try Chamomile flower tea blends. This can promote natural sleep, leaving you feeling refreshed in the morning. Many people reach for coffee to mask the effects of a poor night’s sleep, but in the long run this keeps the body in a permanent cycle of exhaustion and overstimulation.