Āyurvedic Wellness Spotlight - November 2021

The āyurvedic concept of ojas is often referred to as our “vital sap”. Ojas is the energy reserves that we can draw from when we are depleted and run down. In our modern, Western culture we do not value ojas and ojas supporting practices enough, so it’s not shocking that many of us are running on low, with very little energy reserves to support us when we become depleted. This “vital sap” is related to our vitality and our immunity, so it’s no surprise that in our always on the go culture we are susceptible to colds, flus, exhaustion, fatigue, and depression.

Yoga and āyurveda offer us a number of ways to increase our ojas:

  • gratitude practice

  • ample sleep

  • deep, nourishing rest

  • spending time in nature

  • āsana, prānāyāma and meditation practices

  • whole, organic foods that are naturally sweet, unctuous, heavy and smooth.

Āyurvedic Ojas Bites

These simple bite sized snacks are filled with healthy, ojas building ingredients, and will satisfy your sweet craving without added sugars.

  • 1 cup roasted, unsalted sunflower seeds

  • 10 pitted medjool dates

  • 1/4 cup shredded coconut, unsweetened

  • 1/4 cup cacao powder

  • 1 tsp ground cinnamon

  • 1/2 tsp ground cardamom

  • 1 tsp ashwaghanda powder (optional)

  • 3 Tbs tahini

  • extra shredded coconut for coating

Combine all ingredients, except extra shredded coconut, in food processor or blender. Process or blend until all ingredients are well combines and mixture holds together when pressed. Scoop mixture and form into bite sized balls. Roll balls in extra coconut to coat. Serve.

Store extra bites in a covered container, unrefrigerated for up to 4 days.

Makes 10-12 bite sized balls.

Carrie Klaus