Chicory…sit and listen

Chicory is the best beverage to sit with when you need to decide on what to do next. It can help you in deciding the best timing to move. Deep, internal, quiet and cleansing, chicory says ‘Come sit with me.’ This is the role of chicory. It takes you deep inside yourself to help you find respite. It helps slow you down to reflect. In this way, chicory can help you release anger – in the same way you might count to 10 before you speak. Chicory takes you deep so that you have time to see how you truly feel, and speak with clarity about what you truly want – without attacking others. This clever herb helps to cleanse negativity from your soul and your cells, so that a brighter, clearer, more positive you steps forth.

Both the ancient Egyptians and Romans valued this herb for supporting the liver (the organ where anger is stored), assisting the gall bladder (where resentment is stored), and cleansing the blood. Chicory brought forth life sustaining properties from the Nile river for thousands of years, bringing strength to the populations that revered it. These cultured populations valued art, wisdom, and their souls. For growth in these areas, the ability to go deep within was essential. Cleansing away impurities was critical for evolution and expansion of their civilizations.

Chicory supported their evolution both emotionally and physically. While closely related to lettuce and dandelion, it is actually a member of the sunflower family – which is why it can help you go deep and reveal a more positive disposition. You can consume the greens, or brew tea from the roots. The greens are low in Saturated Fat, and very low in Cholesterol. In addition they are a very good source of fiber, Vitamins A, C, iron, folate, calcium, potassium, copper and manganese. Chicory also contains insulin, which can help regulate blood sugar levels.

Chicory root provides nutrients, and also contains a high amount of an important soluble fiber called inulin. Inulin cannot be digested by the small intestine, so instead the bacteria in the large intestine break down the fibers through fermentation. This fermentation process increases the absorption of calcium and other important nutrients, while promoting the growth of intestinal good bacteria. Chicory supports deep internal health, and deep emotional strength.

If you are looking to balance your life, there is a balance that comes from sitting and movement. Both are essential in listening to your inner guidance and creating the life you love. Chicory with Decaf coffee blended together can help you to sit and move. The blend helps you discover the balance of “I sit and I move. I sit and listen, and then I’m ready to move.” The constant checking back in with source and then moving forward, helps you stay in the proper timing, helps you hear your guidance, and helps you live a life of joy. …and that’s the dance…that’s the balance of life.

Vanilla Chicory Latte
This balanced blend of chicory (sit with me) and coffee (I think I can) with a splash of ‘life is good’ vanilla is delicious, comforting, good for you - and perfect to help you with your timing!

Ingredients:
½ cup brewed roasted chicory
½ cup brewed coffee regular or decaf
½ cup milk of choice
½ teaspoon vanilla extract; Agave or sweetener of choice - to taste

Directions:
Brew equal parts of coffee and chicory together. Heat milk and sweetener together just to a boil and remove from heat. Fill cup with chicory and coffee blend, add vanilla, and then fill your cup with the milk. Sit back with it and enjoy!

Note: Chicory is inexpensive and can be purchased roasted and ground at your local health food store.

Recipe provided by Lydia Marshall