My Favorite Tonic | An Elixir of Sorts

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A tonic is something, sometimes medicinal, that makes one feel better or restores his or her health. This summer, I've (Emily, here!) discovered a new favorite drink of mine that makes me feel refreshed, powerful, and truly cleansed. I'll be drinking this all year long, especially into my crazy busy season when I need to know I'm running at my optimal level. It's prime gold for digestion, staying hydrated, and making skin all glowy and clear. Think spicy lemonade -- yum!

Why I love what's in this tonic: Hydration is so important for getting that glorious glow in our skin -- helps with elasticity of the skin meaning no wrinkles (!). I've already talked up Himalayan salt enough here on the blog, but say hi to balancing pH levels, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and naturally detoxifying the body. Lemon kicks butt by helping to debloat (if that's not a real word, it is now), packing a punch of citrusy goondness - vitamin C, and giving your skin a happy glow. Apple cider vinegar (ACV) is absolutely amazing. Not only is it a digestive kick starter, but it also lowers blood sugar levels, helps with heart function, and contains friendly bacteria, enzymes, and proteins. Cayenne neutralizes acidity in the body, stimulates circulation, is a great anti-agent for inflammation, colds, and other illnesses, as well as a whole slew of other great things. Honey helps with seasonal allergies, lasts forever as long as it's properly sealed, and like cayenne, helps stave off various illnesses. Cinnamon is loaded with antioxidants, helps lower blood sugar levels, may be protective against cancer, and does some other pretty fantastic things.

recipe after the jump.

Feel Good Tonic

+ 2-4 cups room temperature water
+ 1/2 lemon
+ 1 tsp - 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (if you've never had ACV in a drink before, start small)
+ Dash of cayenne
+ Dash of pink Himalayan salt
+ Dash of cinnamon
+ Optional: maple syrup or honey (adjust to taste)

Fill up your cup with water, pour in your apple cider vinegar, squeeze in the lemon, dash in your spices and salt, and if adding, stir in maple syrup or honey. Once combined, drink up! It'll be a zing of energy - cayenne is a hiney kicker! Enjoy! Xx.

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+ what do you think? do you have a favorite system-starter drink? share in the comments or on facebook!

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