ALMOND-DATE SHAKE for Relaxation

Recipe by Susan Pully

1 cup almond milk* (see options below)

2 medjool dates (the moist ones), pits removed
½ tsp ground cardamom
1-2 pinches of nutmeg
natural sweetener to taste (agave nectar, organic sugars, jaggery)
pinch of saffron (optional)
 
*Here’s 3 choices on how to obtain almond milk: 
  1. Soak 20 almonds overnight in room-temperature water. Peel skin and discard. Blend the almonds with 1 cup water in a food processor. (Most nutritive option)
  2. or, cover 20 almonds with boiling water, and let stand for 5 minutes. Peel skin and discard. Blend the almonds with 1 cup water in a food processor.
  3. or, start with 1 cup of store-bought almond milk.
From here it is simple: Add the dates and spices to the almond milk and blend well in the food processor.  Before serving, add natural sweetener to taste.
 
This drink is delicious when served warm, or at room temperature. If you warm it, add a pinch of saffron.
 
Benefits: Almonds, dates and cardamom strengthen the nervous system. Nutmeg is deeply relaxing, so it reduces stress and promotes sleep. Almond milk, nutmeg and saffron are particularly good for stress-related sexual debility or loss of libido.
 
Time of day: This drink is a fantastic option if you start to get hungry before bedime when you should not take a full meal, or if you are having difficulties falling asleep. It can also be taken as a quick and nutritious breakfast or late afternoon snack.