There’s a tonic for every sort of body ache and brain-space. Coffee is my tonic to activate my work-brain. Pancakes are my tonic to honor a carb-heavy nap-ready morning. Yoga is my tonic for breathing and clear-mindedness (or moments of it). A cup of tea and a text to Tracy Shutterbean is my tonic for occasional anxiety. Turmeric tea, when served in my favorite mug, is my tonic for inflammation and occasional body aches… the mug is important. A good mug makes for a good tonic.

I feel like the ins and outs of everyday life call for little remedies. More than remedies, they’re just moments to pause and remind ourself that we’re capable and energetic, and at the very least breathing and all up in the noise.

Turmeric is used most often in Indian cooking; it’s often what gives curries their beautiful golden flavor. It’s a gorgeous spice and happens to be powerful as a natural anti-inflammatory. Paired with raw honey for balance and sweetness, tart citrus for brightness, and a few grinds of fresh cracked black pepper to help the turmeric absorb into the body.

I was reminded of Heidi Swanson’s Turmeric Tea when I ran across Jessica Koslow’s Turmeric Tonic on my adventures through the internet. Consider the bandwagon, hopped upon.