As we continue into our 2025 intentions series, using the knowledge of trees to guide us, we find ourselves in the soil – the stability and nourishment of trees. Just as trees rely on their uptake from the soil, so do we rely on what feeds our bodies. It could be argued that trees stand as our greatest teachers in the art of nourishment. We can learn from their wisdom as we sink our awareness deep into the dark mystery of soil – the living tapestry where life’s great feast begins. Here, in the embrace of earth, countless stories of transformation unfold beneath our feet.

Like the trees, who have grown through eons understanding the patient alchemy of sustenance, we too can learn to draw our nourishment with grace. Their roots, like fingers of infinite knowing, dance with mycelial networks in the soil’s embrace, teaching us that true nourishment is not just about taking, but about participating in life’s great exchange.

Every tree knows that strength flows from the darkness below, we can learn from this and understand that our own vitality rises from the depths – from the mysterious realms of our gut, guided by our heart’s rhythm, orchestrated by our brain’s conduction. In this way, we are not so different from our tall green guardians, reaching skyward while remaining deeply anchored in earth’s nurturing body.

Just as each living organism has its unique nutritional landscape, seeds and humans share a profound, intricate journey of growth and sustenance. Both begin with carefully stored reserves and protective mechanisms, gradually developing complex systems to receive and transform nourishment.

In the earliest stages, a seed and a human embryo are remarkably similar—each nestled in a protective environment, rich with nutrients. 

As growth progresses, the parallels continue. Plants extend roots into soil, absorbing minerals through a delicate bacterial ecosystem, while humans cultivate a complex gut microbiome. Leaves capture solar energy just as human cells metabolise nutrients. The critical factor in both cases is balance—the right environmental conditions, the correct pH, the presence of symbiotic microorganisms.

This intricate dance of nourishment reveals a fundamental truth: life is not about consuming nutrients, but about creating a harmonious internal environment where nourishment can be received, transformed, and integrated. Each organism—whether a tiny seed or a complex human—requires its own unique nutritional symphony.

It can be difficult to know where to start with nourishment. We are all so very different. We recommend seeing an integrative doctor who can help you best know what your body requires.

These are two tonics created with love from our Londolozi Kitchen by our lovely chef Kelly Taylor. Kelly has a passion for creating healthy delicious food that nourishes both body and soul. These two tonics are a wonderful way to set you up for a good start to your morning and ending for your evening. 

Morning Golden Hydration Tonic 

 Base Ingredients

– 1 cup warm (not boiling) water

– 1 lemon squeezed of its juice

– 1 teaspoon raw apple cider vinegar (with “the mother”)

– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric

– Small pinch of black pepper (essential for turmeric absorption)

– 1/8 teaspoon finely ground pink Himalayan salt or sea salt

 Optional Warming Spices (Choose one or combine):

– pinch ground cinnamon (blood sugar regulation, sweet warming flavor)

– pinch cayenne pepper (metabolism boost, circulation support)

– pinch ginger powder (digestive aid, warming effect)

 Instructions

1. Heat water until warm but not boiling (around 120°F/49°C)
2. Add turmeric, black pepper, and your choice of warming spices to a large mug or glass
3. Pour in the warm water and stir well
4. Add apple cider vinegar and lemon juice
5. Finally, add the salt and stir until well combined
6. Drink immediately while warm

Benefits of Added Spices

– Cinnamon: Helps regulate blood sugar, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial properties

– Cayenne: Boosts metabolism, supports circulation, may help reduce pain

– Ginger: Aids digestion, reduces inflammation, supports immune function

Evening Calming drink

Golden Chamomile Coconut Milk Nightcap

Ingredients:

• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 chamomile tea bag (or 1 tablespoon loose chamomile flowers)
• 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
• 1 cinnamon stick (or ¼ teaspoon ground cinnamon)
• 2-3 whole cloves
• 1-2 teaspoons honey, or to taste
• Optional pinch of black pepper to enhance absorption

Instructions:

1. Pour the coconut milk into a small saucepan
2. Add the grated ginger, cinnamon stick, and cloves
3. Add the chamomile tea bag or flowers
4. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally
5. Once it starts to steam (but before boiling), reduce heat to low and let it simmer gently for 5-7 minutes to infuse all the flavors
6. Remove from heat, remove the tea bag and strain out the spices
7. Pour into your favorite mug
8. Stir in honey to taste
9. Let it cool slightly before drinking

Adding chamomile makes this drink even more relaxing since it’s known for its gentle sedative properties and ability to promote better sleep. The combination with the warming spices and creamy coconut milk creates a perfect bedtime drink that can help ease you into a restful night’s sleep.

Best enjoyed about 30-60 minutes before bedtime in a quiet, peaceful setting. You might want to pair it with some light stretching or reading to enhance the calming effect.