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Herbal Teas for Intermittent Fasting
Whether you're new to intermittent fasting or a seasoned pro, staying hydrated and energized during your fasting window is key. And while water is always a go-to, herbal tea can be a game-changer. Not only does it support hydration, but certain blends can also help curb cravings, boost metabolism, and promote calm focus—all without breaking your fast. In this blog, we’re sharing our favorite herbal teas to sip during intermittent fasting, plus Leaves of Leisure blends that you can enjoy during your fasting period. Ginger: Ginger tea is known for its ability to soothe an upset stomach and support emotional balance with its warm, comforting flavor. Our Road Trip and Autumn Breeze blends, both featuring ginger, are grounding options to support your fasting journey—perfect for moments when you need calm and clarity. Rosehip: Rosehip tea is rich in antioxidants and may support heart health, which makes it an excellent choice for those fasting with wellness goals in mind. Incorporating rosehip during your fasting window is a smart, and delicious, move. Our Road Trip and Sun Soaked blends are full of rosehip, making them go-to options during those periods. Peppermint: Peppermint is known to reduce hunger cravings, soothe digestion, and enhance mental clarity, making it an ideal companion when you're feeling snacky or sluggish. Refreshing and functional, it helps you stay strong and focused between meals. Our Snow Angel tea is peppermint-forward, making it a perfect pick during your fasting window. Whether you're fasting for focus, energy, or overall wellness, the right herbal tea can make your journey more enjoyable, and more effective. From the soothing warmth of ginger to the refreshing clarity of peppermint, each blend brings its own supportive benefits to your fasting window. Explore our Leaves of Leisure teas and find your perfect sip to keep you grounded, energized, and satisfied, no snacks required. https://www.artoftea.com/blogs/health-lifestyle/how-to-fast-with-tea?srsltid=AfmBOopfjtWGmXTwHcTQ2BGoG63m_tk-C-F1i907zGnclaYwkUT8uY8h
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Iced Tea vs Cold Brew Tea: What’s the Difference and How to Brew Both
When summer hits its peak, nothing sounds better than a crisp, cold drink to cool you down. If you're looking to cut back on caffeine but still want that same refreshing kick you’d get from an iced latte, try swapping it for an iced or cold-brewed tea. Both options are flavorful, caffeine-free, and perfect for powering through the sweltering heat. But what exactly is the difference between iced tea and cold brew tea? And how do you brew each one? In this post, we’ll break it all down, and share our favorite Leaves of Leisure blends that shine when served cold. Though they may look similar in your glass, iced tea and cold brew tea are made using different methods—and each brings its own unique flavor and vibe. Iced Tea is typically brewed hot, then chilled. The process involves steeping your tea in hot water (just like you would for a regular cup), letting it cool slightly, then pouring it over ice. This method is quick and delivers bold, robust flavor, especially great if you're in a hurry. Cold Brew Tea, on the other hand, is steeped cold from the start. You simply add tea bags to cold water and let it infuse slowly in the fridge, usually for 6 to 12 hours. This slow steeping process brings out a smoother, more delicate flavor with less bitterness and zero need for sweeteners. It's refreshing, light, and perfect for laid-back sipping. Our favorite Leaves of Leisure blends to enjoy cold—whether iced or cold brewed—are Picnic in the Park, Bath Time, and Road Trip. Picnic in the Park bursts with fruity summer flavors like apple and hibiscus. Bath Time, with its green tea base, makes for a refreshing midday pick-me-up. And Road Trip blends carrot, beet, and pineapple—a vibrant trio made for sunshine sipping. Whether you prefer the bold refreshment of iced tea or the smooth, subtle taste of cold brew, there's a perfect blend waiting for you. So go ahead, chill out and sip the summer with Leaves of Leisure.
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You’re Not Living Until You’ve Thrown a Cottagecore Tea Party Like This
There’s something magical about gathering under the sun, surrounded by flowers, fresh fruit, linens and lace, and the people you love most. Cottagecore isn’t just an aesthetic; it’s a lifestyle rooted in slowing down, savoring the simple, and celebrating beauty in everyday moments. And what better way to romanticize your weekend than with a tea party straight out of a storybook? In this post, we’ll walk you through how to throw the dreamiest cottagecore tea party; from setting the scene to sipping something herbal and refreshing. So grab your picnic basket, cue the soft playlist, and let’s plan your most enchanting tea party yet. Set the Scene: Whether you’re hosting indoors or in the garden, curating a soft, romantic atmosphere is key. Think pastel linens, fresh flowers in jars, and twinkling fairy lights. Add candles or a few vintage touches like teacups or lace doilies for charm. A cozy playlist—think acoustic, classical, or soft folk—sets the tone. Your goal? Make it feel like your guests just stepped into a storybook. Curate the Menu: Think delicate finger foods, seasonal fruit, and dreamy desserts like shortbread, lemon bars, or berry tarts. Include low- to no-caffeine tea blends to keep things light, herbal, and soothing. Serve a Refreshing Iced Mocktail: Looking for the perfect, wellness-centric, refreshment? Our Beets and Berries Wellness Cooler, made with our Road Trip blend, is guaranteed to please every guest. It’s not only delicious, it’s also caffeine-free and alcohol-free, making it the ideal sip for keeping the vibes peaceful, grounded, and chill. Add Whimsy with Decor: Thrifted teacups, lace doilies, old books, and fresh blooms make the dream come alive. Handwritten name cards, tea labels, or floral-stamped napkins add that extra charm. Create a Cozy Playlist: Set the mood with soft acoustic, instrumental folk, or classical garden tunes. It should feel gentle, ambient, and romantic. Plan a Little Activity: Keep things low-key and lovely: a journaling moment, flower pressing, tarot reading, poetry swap, or just cloud-watching on a blanket. Cottagecore is all about slow joy and connection. Dress the Part: Encourage guests to wear flowy dresses, straw hats, soft cardigans, or anything that feels romantic and relaxed. Bonus points for linen, ruffles, and baskets filled with books or blooms. Send Guests Home with a Token: Wrap a tea sachet in a bit of ribbon, give out mini flower bouquets, or write a little handwritten note. A tiny keepsake adds to the magic and makes it unforgettable. A Cottagecore tea party is all about slowing down, savoring simple pleasures, and celebrating everyday beauty with the people you love (and a really good cup of tea). This summer, carve out a little time to create the dreamy, joy-filled gathering you’ve been imagining. Tried the recipe or threw your own cozy tea party? We’d love to see it! Tag us @leisureteas on Instagram—we’re always swooning over your softest, most romantic moments.
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Destress Yourself: 5 Chilled Ways To Feel A Little Calmer
If you're looking for a way to live a more chilled life, check out my relaxed suggestions below. Get out into nature One of the most effective things you can do to feel more relaxed is to get out into nature. Indeed, spending time in nature has been associated with better mental health and can make a huge difference to those feeling stressed. It's suggested that there are a number of things that cause this effect from the presence of fractal patterns, which can help fight stress, to the increased sunlight and vitamin D. Some people even suggest that it's the Phytoncides that plants produce that have a positive impact on mood regulation. Ditch the caffeine If you are living on coffee and even some high caffeine teas, you might be doing your anxiety more harm than good. This is because caffeine can act as a stimulant, which means it ups your heart rate, giving you feelings that are quite like those of anxiety. Happily, there are plenty of caffeine-free herbal teas and other options that are also refreshing and delicious. Indeed, cutting your coffee and replacing it with caffeine-free tea can make a huge difference to how you feel. Embrace a calming supplement Another way to feel a little calmer and distressed is to use a natural supplement to support your body. There are many that are well known for their calming effects, including magnesium, which regulates serotonin and stops the brain from becoming overstimulated. Then there is St john's wort also known as Hypericum perforatum, which contains hypericin and hyperforin, which act on mood. Lastly, many people are also turning to CBD & THC products for stress management. This is because products made with the indica strain tend to have a calming and relaxing effect. Do some yoga Yoga is an intricate combination of stretches, twists, and mindful focus, which can be very useful for combating anxiety. Part of the reason for this is that most types of yoga encourage the practitioner to be curious about the sensations in their body, and allow them. This acceptance can help reduce the suppression and fighting of feelings, and after an initial spike, can help a person feel calmer. Listen to a guided meditation There are 1000s of guided meditations that you can try online, and some of them can be truly effective when it comes to creating calm. In particular, look for yoga nidra or progressive muscle relaxation. Yoga nidra is a time of yogic meditation, also known as the sleep of the Gods. It is designed to provide your body and mind with rest by guiding your focus to the different areas of your form. Progressive muscle relaxation is a more modern approach. Although it is similar in that you move your focus around the body as you do it. However, this time you will also tense and then release your major muscle groups one by one. This can be particularly effective when it comes to distress before sleep and can help you nod off quickly and with ease.
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The Harsh Reality of Tea on Energy Levels…
Can tea really boost energy levels? Is caffeine the only solution? Many of us wake up tired and groggy, eager to get any sort of caffeine into our body as fast as possible. But, caffeine can lead to excessive anxiety, a rapid heartbeat, nausea, dizziness, shakiness, and trouble sleeping. Teas with no to low caffeine content are a great alternative to those looking to either cut back on or eliminate caffeine, or as an alternative to a cup of coffee. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best types of herbal tea to start your day with a boost, without the crash of caffeine, whilst providing sources of information and highlighting some of the top teas from Leaves of Leisure that are particularly effective. Types of Herbal Tea for Energy: Several types of herbal teas are known for their energy boosting properties. Here are some of the most effective ones: Green Tea: Green Tea includes compounds of L-Theanine and low amounts of caffeine, which can benefit brain function, cognition, mood, and give you the perfect boost to start your day. (1) Rosehip Tea: Rosehip Tea is rich in antioxidants, as well as high levels of polyphenols, carotenoids, and vitamins C and E. Consuming foods, and teas rich in antioxidants can not only protect against heart disease and cancer, but improve energy levels and reduce fatigue by supporting metabolism, reducing inflammation, and protecting cells from damage caused by free radicals. (2) Ginger Tea: Ginger can help improve cognitive function. A cup of ginger tea can help to increase concentration and focus and increase energy. (3) Peppermint Tea: Peppermint Tea has been shown to enhance memory and cognitive function. Peppermint also increases alertness, energy, and focus, it can be a simple, easy way to boost your mental fitness and help you retain information. If you’re feeling sluggish, a cup of peppermint tea can help to increase alertness and boost energy. (4) Incorporating low-caffeine and herbal teas into your daily routine can be an effective, and delicious, way to boost your energy levels without the use of caffeine. Green, rosehip, ginger, and peppermint tea are some of the best options available. Leaves of Leisure offers high-quality blends that harness the power of these herbs to help you feel your best, like our Sun Soaked and Bath Time blends. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication. By understanding the benefits of these teas and choosing the right blends, you can take a natural step towards reducing inflammation and improving your overall well-being. Sources: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/top-10-evidence-based-health-benefits-of-green-tea#6.-Could-help-with-oral-health https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/rosehip-tea#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2 https://artfultea.com/blogs/wellness/ginger-tea-benefits https://artfultea.com/blogs/wellness/peppermint-tea-benefits?srsltid=AfmBOoqt-LsXErBziswfXq7F_NuEVoaSZkV2mQJsGy42tYRwg5ys9fKl
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Is Tea Before Bed Really a Good Idea?
Have you ever laid down at night, exhausted and ready to sleep, but unable to quiet your mind and, a few hours later, you’re still wide awake? Well, a hot cup of herbal tea might aid in improving your sleep health. According to Healthline (1), a good night’s sleep is vital for every human being; no matter age, gender, weight, lifestyle, etc. A consistent schedule of 7 to 9 hours a night is recommended for all in order to improve concentration and productivity, maximize athletic and physical fitness performance, strengthen heart health, boost mood and aid in energy levels. In this blog post, we’ll explore the best types of herbal tea for a restful sleep, whilst providing sources of information and highlighting some of the top teas from Leaves of Leisure that are particularly effective. Types of Herbal Tea for a Restful Sleep: Several types of herbal teas are known for their restful and calming properties. Here are some of the most effective ones: Tulsi (Holy Basil): Tulsi is known to calm the nervous system, be helpful for anxiety, insomnia and alleviating stress. It is also known to relax frayed nerves, tonify the central nervous system and calm the mind. (2) Our Autumn Breeze blend incorporates Tulsi for a warm and comforting tea, perfect for bedtime. Lavender Tea: Lavender tea calms brain function by triggering chemical reactions in the nervous system. Drinking lavender tea can increase the production of dopamine which lowers the stress hormone known as cortisol, making for a more at peace mind before bed.(3) Lemon Balm Tea: Lemon Balm tea is known to help those who suffer from insomnia or have a difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep due to its calming properties and ability to increase GABA levels in the brain, which can prevent anxiety and restlessness. (4) Chamomile Tea: Chamomile tea has a mild sedative effect that is helpful in inducing sleep. After you fall asleep, chamomile can help to improve sleep quality so that you wake up rested and refreshed. Chamomile has also been shown to help sleep quality problems associated with depression and other mental health issues. (5) Peppermint Tea: Peppermint Tea is particularly helpful for sleep health due to its natural caffeine free content and muscle relaxant properties. (6). Check out our Snow Angel blend for a tea, with peppermint, that will relax your mind and calm your senses. Incorporating herbal teas into your nighttime routine can be a useful tool to those that struggle with falling asleep, staying asleep, or are just searching for a warming and delicious drink before bed. Tulsi, Lavender, Lemon Balm, Chamomile, and Peppermint tea are some of the best options out there. Leaves of Leisure offers high-quality blends that harness the power of these herbs to help you feel your best. Our Snow Angel and Autumn Breeze blends are the best to aid relaxation and a good night’s sleep. Always remember to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new health regimen, especially if you have existing health conditions or are on medication. By understanding the benefits of these teas and choosing the right blends, you can take a natural step towards reducing inflammation and improving your overall well-being. Sources: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-reasons-why-good-sleep-is-important https://www.organicindia.nz/blogs/news/tulsi-sleep-tea-ai-how-does-it-help-you-sleep?srsltid=AfmBOor3jImOoY-vyofHns2NRjDhSmn-TwAu5BRLYSIaBrKHRNKOR9L4 https://senchateabar.com/blogs/blog/lavender-tea https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/lemon-balm-tea#uses-and-benefits https://artfultea.com/blogs/wellness/chamomile-tea-benefits?srsltid=AfmBOorxbaW-w0NT03z0CTaDZIaD6L4KsKceekN_eBEKnvu22TV7t5o5 https://www.healthlinehe.com/nutrition/peppermint-tea#TOC_TITLE_HDR_13
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Drink Your Skincare and Taste the Results
When it comes to skincare, what you sip can be just as important as what you slather on. Glowing, healthy skin isn’t just about serums and creams, it starts from within. Certain herbal teas are packed with skin-loving vitamins, antioxidants, and anti-inflammatory properties that naturally support a clear, radiant complexion. Below, we’re spilling the tea on four powerhouse brews, hibiscus, ginger, peppermint, and rooibos, that do more than taste good; they help you glow. Plus, we’re highlighting the best Leaves of Leisure blends to support your skin from the inside out. Hibiscus: Hibiscus tea is high in antioxidants and vitamin C, a key nutrient for collagen production. Collagen helps keep skin firm, smooth, and youthful, and hibiscus supports this process from the inside out. The benefits of vitamin C can be found by using hibiscus both topically and internally. (1) Our Picnic in the Park blend is hibiscus-forward, making it the perfect addition to your wellness routine if you’re looking to boost your skin health and sip on something delicious. Ginger: Ginger tea is a skincare staple thanks to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. The natural oils in ginger—specifically gingerols—help soothe irritated skin and protect against environmental stressors. Our Road Trip and Autumn Breeze blends, both featuring ginger, are warming, grounding options to support your glow. Peppermint: Peppermint tea is a glow-up in a cup. It’s rich in antioxidants, vitamin E, and vitamin D—all of which promote skin cell turnover and slow signs of aging, resulting in a more youthful, clear complexion. Our Snow Angel blend, full of peppermint, is a crisp and refreshing choice for skin health. Rooibos: Rooibos tea is also a great addition to add to your tea rotation for glowing and healthy skin. Rooibos is rich in antioxidants, flavonoids, which reduce inflammation, and rich in alpha hydroxy acids (AHAs) that slowly exfoliate, refine texture, and induce cell turnover (3). Sipping rooibos regularly can help reveal smoother, more radiant skin over time. Whether you’re looking to calm inflammation, boost collagen, or simply glow from within, hibiscus, ginger, peppermint, and rooibos tea offer an easy and delicious way to support your skin from the inside out. Sip with intention, and let your daily cup become part of your skincare ritual. Want more tea tips and glowing girl wellness? Follow us on Instagram @leisureteas for more wellness and tea tips!Sources: https://spongelle.com/blogs/blog/hibiscus-benefits?srsltid=AfmBOoov8SIGHZIRZCYIPljwJNffw2_2UQjbG0-J-MITTz3tdCBnUZ9h https://genomind.com/patients/6-health-and-beauty-benefits-of-ginger/ https://www.clinikally.com/blogs/news/rooibos-in-skincare-the-ultimate-guide-to-radiant-skin?srsltid=AfmBOor7G8az2EuwGOErhUdGKtp8HrEhHlfVDoP2PXz_QEBvmLY39tEy
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Hibiscus Tea Mojito Mocktail Recipe
There’s nothing quite like a mojito to quench your thirst on a warm day—especially when it’s made with refreshing tea! Whether you’re lounging outside, hosting a small gathering, or simply craving a cool beverage, our Hibiscus Tea Mojito is the perfect blend of herbal tea, citrus, and mint to add some bliss to your day. While we made ours with no alcohol, but feel free to spike yours if you so desire! At Leaves of Leisure, our Picnic in the Park tea is the star ingredient in this twist on the classic mojito. With its vibrant hibiscus flavor and calming herbal notes, this caffeine-free tea is the perfect base for a fresh, floral cocktail. Add some limeade, honey or agave, and mint for that refreshing kick, and you’ve got yourself a rejuvenating beverage that tastes as good as it feels! Here's how to make our signature Hibiscus Tea Mojito at home. Ingredients You'll Need: 1 tea bag of Leaves of Leisure Picnic in the Park tea 1 cup of hot water 10-12 fresh mint leaves, plus extra for garnish 1 tablespoon of honey or agave syrup (more or less depending on your sweetness preference) 1/4 cup of limeade (store-bought or homemade) Ice cubes Lime slices (for garnish) Optional: 1-2 ounces of white rum (for an alcoholic version) Directions: 1. Brew the Tea Start by brewing your Leaves of Leisure Picnic in the Park tea, which will be the base of your mojito. Boil 1 cup of water and steep the tea for about 3-5 minutes. If you prefer a stronger hibiscus flavor, you can let it steep a little longer. Once the tea is brewed, remove the teabag (or strain the loose tea leaves) and let it cool completely. You can even make this tea in advance and chill it in the fridge to save time later. 2. Muddle the Mint In a cocktail shaker, add 10-12 fresh mint leaves and 1 tablespoon of honey or agave syrup. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently crush the mint leaves. This releases their natural oils and gives the mojito that refreshing minty kick. Be careful not to tear the mint leaves too much; you just want to press them enough to release their flavor. 3. Mix in the Limeade and Tea Next, pour in ½ cup of limeade into the shaker with the mint and honey/agave. Stir well until the honey/agave is fully dissolved. Then, add your cooled Picnic in the Park tea to the mix, and shake! 4. Add Ice and Garnish Fill your serving glass with ice cubes to keep your mojito cool and refreshing. If you’d like an alcoholic version of this drink, add 1-2 ounces of white rum to the mix at this point. Otherwise, simply pour the tea mixture over the ice. For a final touch, garnish your hibiscus tea mojito with extra mint leaves and a few lime slices for that classic mojito look. These garnishes also enhance the drink’s fresh flavor with every sip. Why We Love This Recipe: Caffeine-Free & Hydrating: The Picnic in the Park tea base makes this mojito caffeine-free, making it a great option for any time of day. Health Benefits: Hibiscus is known for its antioxidant properties, while mint supports digestion. This drink isn’t just refreshing—it’s good for you, too! Customizable: Want a mocktail? Skip the rum. Prefer something stronger? Add a little extra! You can also adjust the sweetness with more or less honey/agave, depending on your taste.
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Beets and Berries Wellness Cooler Recipe: A Refreshing and Healthy Sip for Summer
Summer calls for drinks that are not only refreshing but also nourishing. At Leaves of Leisure tea, we believe in creating beverages that uplift both the body and the soul. Enter our Beets and Berries Wellness Cooler – a perfect balance of flavor, wellness, and vibrant color. It’s refreshing, slightly sweet, and packed with health-boosting ingredients, making it the ideal drink for warm days and cool evenings. Here’s how you can make this easy, delicious beverage at home: Ingredients: 1/2 cup Leaves of Leisure Road Trip Tea (brewed and chilled) 1/2 cup Lemonade (store-bought or homemade – see below for our homemade recipe) A splash of beet juice Garnish: Fresh mint leaves and blueberries/strawberries Directions: Brew the Road Trip Tea: Start by brewing a cup of Leaves of Leisure Road Trip Tea. This tea is a beautiful blend of turmeric, ginger, pineapple, dried carrots, and beets. It’s the perfect mix of earthy and fruity flavors, with a natural sweetness that complements the cooler. Once brewed, allow the tea to cool to room temperature and then chill it in the fridge. Make Your Lemonade: If you’re using store-bought lemonade, feel free to skip this step. But if you’d like to make your own, here’s a simple recipe: Ingredients: Fresh lemon juice, water, and sugar. Mix together 1 part fresh lemon juice, 3 parts water, and sweeten to taste with sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved. Adjust the sweetness and tartness to your preference. You want it to be tangy enough to balance the earthy flavors of the beet juice and tea. Mix the Drink: In a glass, combine 1/2 cup of your chilled Road Trip Tea with 1/2 cup of lemonade. Stir gently to combine. Add a splash of beet juice to give the drink a vibrant color and an extra boost of nutrients. The beet juice also adds a slight earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with the flavors of the tea and lemonade. Garnish and Serve: Top off your Beets and Berries Wellness Cooler with a few fresh mint leaves and a handful of blueberries and/or strawberries for garnish. If you’re feeling extra fancy, serve it in a glass with a fun straw or over ice for an extra refreshing sip. Enjoy! Sip on your Beets and Berries Wellness Cooler, and feel the refreshing and revitalizing effects of this wellness-packed drink. Whether you’re lounging on the porch, enjoying a picnic in the park, or simply unwinding after a long day, this cooler is sure to elevate your moment of leisure.
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