Herbalist Earl Grey: Coming Home to Yourself
Earl Grey got a makeover.
This isn't your grandmother's bergamot black tea (though we love her for drinking it). This is Earl Grey for the woman who's spent a lifetime performing, pleasing, shape-shifting for everyone else—and is finally, quietly, coming back to herself.
We're adding lavender for the nervous system you've been ignoring. Adaptogens for the stress you've been carrying. Optional rose petals for the softness you're remembering you deserve.
What You Need:
2 teaspoons loose Earl Grey tea (or 1 tea bag)
1 teaspoon dried lavender buds
1/2 teaspoon ashwagandha powder (adaptogen for stress)
3-4 dried rose petals (optional, but worth it)
8-10 oz boiling water
Honey or oat milk to taste
How to Make It:
Combine Earl Grey, lavender, ashwagandha, and rose petals in a tea infuser or directly in your pot
Pour boiling water over the blend
Steep for 4-5 minutes (longer and it gets bitter—trust the timing)
Strain into your cup
Add honey for sweetness or a splash of oat milk for creaminess
Sit down. Actually sit. Don't drink this standing at the counter scrolling your phone.
The Herbal Breakdown:
Bergamot (in Earl Grey): Uplifting citrus oil that's been shown to reduce anxiety and improve mood. It's why Earl Grey feels fancy even when life doesn't.
Lavender: Calms your nervous system, eases tension, helps you remember what relaxation feels like. It's not just for sleep—it's for coming back into your body.
Ashwagandha: An Ayurvedic adaptogen that helps your body handle stress without burning out. It doesn't numb you—it grounds you.
Rose: Optional, but here's why you should add it: Rose is heart-opening. Literally and energetically. It's gentle, feminine (in the wild way, not the domesticated way), and reminds you that softness isn't weakness.
Substitutions:
Skip ashwagandha? Use reishi powder or holy basil instead
No lavender? Chamomile works
Want more grounding? Add a pinch of cinnamon
Where to Source:
Mountain Rose Herbs for organic loose herbs
Your local co-op bulk section
This tea is for the in-between moments. The pause between who you were told to be and who you actually are. The breath you take before you speak your truth.
Make it a ritual. Light a candle. Wrap your hands around the warm cup. Let yourself be here.
