Greta Kent-Stoll

Ayurveda and Iyengar Yoga with Greta—Ancient Wisdom for Modern Maladies

greta.ayurveda@gmail.com

How Does Scent Affect Mood?

On an intuitive and experiential level, many of us are aware of the connection between scent and mood. Though some may tune into the significance of scent more consciously than others, our sense of smell is intimately related to our emotions and even cognitive function and spatial awareness (Fifth Sense, 2021). Furthermore, appealing scents enhance our lives. We can all relate to the feeling of walking into a room that smells divine. Be it fresh-baked bread, lavender, pine needles, or a simmering herbal vegetable soup, smell has the power to evoke emotion—and the loss of it can have detrimental effects. In addition to our intuitive knowledge about the relationship between scent and psychology, science and herbal traditions have quite a bit to say about this connection. Whether you are looking to ease anxiety, enhance your focus, or create a cozy atmosphere, aromatherapy is a powerful way to influence mood. Read the full article, How Does Scent Affect Mood on the Herbal Academy blog.

Homemade Crackers with Scallions and Black Mustard Seeds

Until a couple of months ago, I never thought to make homemade crackers. Crackers were one of those things that I only enjoyed when store-bought. However, making crackers in your own kitchen is surprisingly easy and fun—also, you can get creative with the ingredients and you always know exactly what goes into your savory snacks. This recipe features almond flour, scallions, and black mustard seeds, and can easily be made gluten-free.

If you enjoy Chinese scallion pancakes, you will love these homemade crackers made with scallions and black mustard seeds. Drizzle with a bit of sesame oil before popping in the oven to truly replicate the green onion pancake taste experience. Hearty and pungent, these crackers are flavorful enough to stand on their own. Or, enjoy them with a mild, creamy cheese such as brie, or alongside a hot bowl of soup. Yield: approximately 75 2-inch square crackers.

Read the full post and access the recipe on the Herbal Academy blog!

How to Make Coffee Extract + A Dark Chocolate Delights Recipe

Aside from being one of the most popular morning wake-up beverages, the coffee bean (Coffea spp.) is a plant that offers a range of health benefits. For many coffee drinkers, sipping a morning cup of coffee is a cherished ritual—it’s not just about the caffeine pick-me-up, but also about the smell, flavor, aroma, and brewing process. Brewing methods range vastly…including French Press, cold brew, moka pot, drip, and espresso; there are myriad ways in which to prepare this delightful bitter beverage. Turning ground coffee beans into coffee extract is yet another way to enjoy the taste and benefits of the coffee bean. 

Dark Chocolate Delights

If you are a dark chocolate lover, these Dark Chocolate Delights are for you! This is an easy-to-make chocolate ball that requires few ingredients and yields remarkably rich and creamy results. Coffee and vanilla extract complements the bittersweet chocolate. After trying this recipe you may also want to repeat and swirl in a tablespoon of nut or seed butter just before you put the mixture in the fridge to cool. Or, add a tablespoon of your favored powdered adaptogen for an extra nourishing boost!

Access my post, How To Make Coffee Extract + Dark Chocolate Delights Recipe on the Herbal Academy blog!

Herbs and Yoga: How Plant Wisdom Can Support Your Yoga Practice

Yoga has come to mean many things to many people. An ancient practice designed to serve as a path to self-liberation, there are almost as many approaches to yoga as there are people practicing. The practice of yoga asana (yoga postures) offers immense benefits—physical, physiological, and psychological. However, cultivating a nourishing yoga practice that stands the test of time isn’t just about what you do on the mat. How you act and care for yourself outside of your dedicated yoga practice has a huge impact. The topic of herbs and yoga is a fascinating one with historical significance. This article will touch upon how ancient yogic philosophy references herbs and yoga and will offer some practical guidelines and food for thought as to how plant wisdom can support the yoga practice of the modern-day practitioner. Read the full post on the Herbal Academy blog HERE.