“I am enough.” These are easy enough words to say but much more difficult to believe and really mean. Many of us, including myself, spend a good portion of our lives convincing ourselves that we are not enough. These thoughts can show up by denying our needs and desires like the time for rest and self-care.

Some of us have become aware of this habit of not thinking we’re enough and see how those patterns show up in our lives. Where do we go from there?

How do we move forward from this mind-set and start to show ourselves the love that we are worthy of giving ourselves?

For me, self-care is a good place to start. Now, this doesn’t mean spending an entire day at the spa (not to say that I discourage this from time-to-time!) For me, self-care means giving my body the nutrition it needs. It means giving my brain the rest it needs. And, currently, my most devoted self-care practice is how I begin my morning – almost every morning.

Over the last few years, it has become more and more clear to me that how I start my day not only sets the tone for that day, but my entire week. My morning consistently includes my two favourite things: ‘me time’ and my coffee elixir.

Every morning, no matter what the day has in store for me, I set my alarm early enough to allow myself this extra time. This is one way of showing myself that I am enough.

Next comes my coffee elixir. It is warm, frothy and creamy. It is a grounding yet energizing drink that really puts me on the right track for the day. This elixir is full of healthy fats, proteins, herbs and adaptogens (natural substances considered to help the body adapt to stress). This sets myself up for a day of success. There is coconut oil which promotes heart health. And, MCT oil which is believed to support brain function and a healthy metabolism. It also contains collagen which is not only great for your hair, skin and nails, but is also incredibly healing for the digestive system. And to finish it off, any herbs of choice that you would like to add in. My personal favourites are the medicinal mushroom blends from New Earth Organics and Harmonic Arts. Both of which can be found in Health Stores across Edmonton. It is also important to note that coffee is one of the most chemically treated crops on the planet so, if available, organic coffee beans are best.

I recommend making this in a high-speed blender or any blender that has a loose top. Because of the steam from this hot beverage, you will want to avoid a magic bullet, nutri bullet, or any model with a screw on bottom.

This has become a non-negotiable staple in my routine. It allows me to begin my day feeling grounded and nourished. It is an every day reminder that I deserve this goodness and that I am enough.

Recipe:

1.5 cups fresh brewed organic coffee

1/2-1 TBSP MCT oil

1/2-1 TBSP coconut oil

1-2 TBSP collegan

1/4-1/2 TSP herbs or adaptogens (chaga, reishi, astragalus, ashwanganda)

Add all ingredients to your blender and blend on medium speed for 10-20 seconds. Pour into your favourite mug, sip and enjoy.

By Michelle Doiron.

*MCT oil, collagen, and adaptogens can all be purchased at Blush Lane, Optimum Health, Noorish, and most health food stores or vitamin stores. I recommend ordering collagen from The Light Cellar in Calgary at (403) 453-1343.