ALMOND MILK — The Star Of This Warming Drink

Almond-based beverages have been enjoyed for centuries across the Mediterranean, Middle East, and Europe. In Spain, almonds were blended with water and spices as early as the Middle Ages to create nourishing drinks. These drinks later influenced recipes in North Africa and Mexico, evolving into variations like horchata.

Almond milk, the star of this warming drink, is light, gentle on digestion, and naturally nourishing. In traditional medicine, almonds are considered warming, grounding, and supportive of the Spleen and Stomach, helping the body transform dampness and maintain energy flow. Almond milk also provides healthy fats, protein, and subtle sweetness, making it an ideal base for warming beverages that support digestion, circulation, and overall vitality.

Combined with warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, or turmeric, almond milk helps move stagnant energy, awaken internal warmth, and gently restore balance, making it both a delicious and health-supportive choice, especially in damp or cool climates.

Vancouver Rainy-Day Warming Almond Drink

Ingredients (serves 2–3):

• 1 cup unsweetened almond milk

• 1/4 cup raw almonds, soaked 4–6 hours

• 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon (or 1 cinnamon stick)

• 1/4 tsp ground ginger (or a few thin slices of fresh ginger)

• Pinch of nutmeg (optional)

• 1–2 tsp honey or maple syrup (adjust to taste)

• Pinch of sea salt (optional, to enhance grounding)

Optional Additions for Extra Flow & Damp-Clearing:

• 1–2 tbsp roasted barley (supports digestion and energy flow)

• 1/4 tsp turmeric (gentle anti-inflammatory, moves stagnant energy)

• 1/8 tsp cloves or cardamom (warming, grounding, and aromatic)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Almonds: Drain soaked almonds and blend with 1/2 cup warm water, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, optional turmeric, cloves/cardamom, and honey until smooth.

2. Add Barley (if using): If adding roasted barley, simmer it in the almond milk for 5–7 minutes before blending, or add it to the blender and strain for a smooth texture.

3. Heat: Pour the almond mixture into a small saucepan, add the remaining almond milk, and warm gently over low heat—do not boil.

4. Strain (optional): For a silky texture, strain through a fine sieve or cheesecloth.

5. Serve warm: Sip slowly, noticing the warmth moving through your body and gently awakening your energy.

Why it works for dampness & flow:

• Almonds: nourish Spleen, support digestion, and are lightly warming

• Cinnamon & ginger: move stagnant energy and support circulation

• Turmeric: gently moves energy and supports vitality

• Roasted barley: grounding, stabilizes energy, and reduces heaviness

• Warm serving: keeps internal fire active, especially helpful in damp climates

• Mindful sipping: encourages energy flow and gentle realignment