I fell in love with Garden in the East after hearing Angela read an excerpt at a writer’s conference. I bought the book as soon as it came out, but I’m now reviewing it for one reason: This is the kind of book I like to savor.
There are certain books that mend the soul and soothe over the damage of self-criticism and the hostilities of the world: Jane Austen novels, Rilke’s poetry, and this book by Angela Doll Carlson. I keep it on my Kindle at the top of the queue, returning again and again to re-read passages.
Angela’s background as a personal trainer is evident in her deep awareness of the body. She uses her formidable skills as a poet to weave an engaging prose vision of the body’s graces: organic, dynamic, sacred.
This book brought me peace with my body and helped me understand the rich beauty of being created. I highly recommend it for anyone who struggles with their place in the world or who wants to grow deeper into a sense of their sacred selves.
A book like this deserves a custom tea blend that focuses on building up the body. I recommend that you make this blend by the pot.
Angela’s Tea Blend
You’ll need: rosehips, dried ginger, rooibos, and dried elder berries.
For one pot, blend:
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2 Tablespoons rooibos
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1 Tablespoon dried ginger
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1 tablespoon rosehips
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1 tablespoon elder berries
Steep in boiling water for 5 or more minutes. The mixture should not get bitter over time like traditional teas.
Amazon Shopping List: Garden in the East: The Spiritual Life of the Body paperback, ginger root, elder berries, rosehips, organic rooibos.
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