The Sun is the almighty giver of life. It represents doing things consciously, out in the open and with purpose and direction. During spring, when the Suns rays lengthen and strengthen, our ability to actively pursue our goals increases. We have stamina. We feel the need to make, do and go. Foods that help us reach our goals and realise our hearts desires mimic the Suns radiance, glory and healing powers. They are foods that contain activating compounds such as capsaicin in cayenne pepper, theobromine in cacao and L-Theanine in matcha green tea. This specific smoothie contains one of those amazing ingredients: the wild and wondrous cayenne pepper and its compound capsaicin. Capsaicin is nothing less than magic. It is proven to relieve headaches, sinus inflammation, high blood pressure and gastric ulcers. It stimulates the production of endorphins which makes it a natural pain killer and mood enhancer. I use cayenne pepper mainly as a substitute for coffee, to give me a balanced buzz of energy in the morning. Capsaicin energizes sustainably, in a way that does not drain your adrenal glands, like coffee does. So instead of drinking nutrient-void coffee on an empty stomach, try drinking this nutirent-dense smoothie. It will nourish, boost your metabolism and give you an imperishable spark. I have created a cooking video to accompany this warming morning recipe. You can view it here and start blending it up yourself.

Enjoy having the Sun in your glass!

Xoxo kyra.

RECIPE

Sun smoothie

Makes 1 portion

Takes 5 minutes

Ingredients

2 large grapefruits, 325 ml juice

1 small lemon, 25 ml juice

1/3 small banana

1 ½ tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 ½ teaspoons grated ginger

½-1 small teaspoon cayenne pepper

Instructions

Juice both the grapefruit and the lemon. Add juice to blender. Grate fresh peeled ginger root. Add grated flesh and juice to blender. Add peeled banana. If you’re used to spicy food add 1 small teaspoon of cayenne pepper. If you’re not used to spicy, add ½ small teaspoon. Start blending. Whilst blending slowly add the olive oil. Pour and add a few leaves of celery for garnish.