LA: Ginger and turmeric are key ingredients in your Ayurvedic Chakra Tonic and you note that they are particularly great for the body this time of year, why?

VP: Ginger is known to be a natural immune booster, which helps to ward against cold and flu season. In addition, it helps to naturally boost digestive enzymes in the gut, for proper digestion.

Turmeric is known as a very powerful anti-inflammatory, so incorporating this whenever possible is can make a difference in the way you look and feel. I also like to add cinnamon for its warming qualities.

LA: Does consuming ginger and turmeric promote skin balance? If so how?

VP: I believe that both herbs help enhance the natural glow in your skin. Also, they are warming herbs, which also leads to glowing skin. I notice improvement to my own complexion when I drink it regularly. However, applying Aveda’s Tulasāra™ collection to your skin, which includes these two ingredients, will give you glowing skin instantly.

LA: Any other morning rituals?

VP: I try to do a 20-minute meditation before heading out for my day. Sometimes it’s 10 minutes, but no matter the time, as long as I’m taking a few minutes a day to find some stillness, I’m able to feel more balance.

A workout in the morning is essential. I begin every morning at modelFIT. After a class, my day can really begin. The Aveda Shampure™ Dry Shampoo is naturally my go-to, especially after a sweaty sculpt class. I wash my face after working out with the Aveda Botanical Kinetics™ Purifying Gel Cleanser. The Aveda Tulasāra™ Firm Concentrate is always in my bag and goes on before my moisturizer.

Here’s the recipe for Vanessa’s Ayurvedic Chakra Tonic:

1 Tablespoon sliced fresh turmeric

1 Tablespoon sliced fresh ginger

Grated fresh cinnamon

Let it steep…

Optional: Steamed almond milk or raw honey to taste

Share it using the hashtag #LivingAveda.