Cutting down and eliminating my coffee all together

If anybody had told me a few years ago that I would be able to stop drinking coffee I had never believed them. The smell of freshly brewed coffee used to be an essential part of my morning routine, like a comforting ritual to kickstart my day. But here I am now, happily sipping on herbal teas and feeling more energized than ever. It's amazing how our tastes and habits can evolve over time, opening up new possibilities we never thought possible.

I am Spanish, we live on coffee. Coffee is not only a social affair, but also an exquisite pleasure of life. The aromatic scent of freshly brewed coffee fills our home every morning, signaling the start of a new day filled with possibilities. Our love for coffee is more than just a daily ritual; it is a celebration of the simple joys that bring us together. Whether sipped slowly on lazy Sunday afternoons or shared with friends during lively gatherings, coffee weaves its way through the tapestry of our lives, adding depth and flavour to every moment. In each steaming cup, we find comfort, inspiration, and a shared passion that transcends language and borders. So here's to coffee, the elixir of life that keeps us connected, awake, and deeply in love with each other and the world around us.

I used to love the whole process of coffee making. Waking up in the morning, looking forward to that first drink to set up my day. The sound of the beans grinding, the rich aroma filling the kitchen, and the anticipation of that first sip were all part of the ritual. It was a moment of calm before the day began, a simple pleasure that never failed to put a smile on my face. As the steam rose from the mug and the warmth spread through my body, I knew that everything was going to be alright.

Meeting a friend for a great conversation and enjoying a coffee is like hitting the jackpot of simple pleasures. Starting work and meeting around the coffee machine with colleagues is the perfect way to kick off the day — bonding over a shared love for that aromatic brew. Enjoying a coffee with a book is a serene moment of bliss, where the outside world fades away and it's just you, your words, and that comforting cup. The smell of coffee, the taste of coffee...two things that never fail to bring a smile and a sense of contentment. It's amazing how something as straightforward as a cup of coffee can enhance every moment it touches.

Just 5 years ago, my coffee intake was up to as much as 7 cups of coffee a day on a working week. My morning coffee’s (3 at that time) were always with milk. I used to use skimmed omega 3 milk in my coffee. But, if you count, I used to consume nearly 700ml of milk a day. Not only was I overdosing my body with caffeine, but also with milk too. At one of my checkouts with my doctor, she advised that I reduce my intake of coffee and milk. After so time, I managed to reduce my intake to 3 coffees a day. A significant reduction overall I would say. Broken down, I had two coffees with milk in the morning and then one after my lunch taken black.

I knew breaking my coffee addiction would be a challenge, but I never expected it to be this hard. My once-disciplined self was now constantly surrounded by coffee, both physically and socially. Despite my best efforts, I found myself slipping back into old habits, consuming 5 to 6 cups a day on some occasions. It was apparent that this battle was far from over, and I needed to muster all of my strength and determination to finally break free from the grips of caffeine.

Giving Up Coffee: A Tough Decision

I kept going and finally I managed to cut down even more on my coffee intake to 2 coffees a day. It was a challenging journey, but I persisted and gradually reduced my consumption. Now, I feel more energetic and balanced throughout the day, relying less on caffeine to get me through. It's amazing how small changes can make a big difference in how one feels both physically and mentally.

Once I hit the Menopause, I started to feel that first coffee in the morning did not feel as good as it used to. I had a heavy and bloating feeling after drinking my coffee. So, I also started to avoid my coffee after my lunch. At which time, my nutritionist advised that I completely eliminate coffee from my daily routine.

I was devastated at the thought of giving up my beloved morning coffee routine. However, I realised that my love for coffee had turned into just a mundane habit over the years. Determined to evolve into the best version of myself, I made the bold decision to seek out alternatives to kickstart my mornings without coffee. It was time to break free from the routine and explore new ways to embrace each day with fresh perspectives.

And I found it!! Matcha tea and Chai Latte came into my life.. Two delightful beverages that instantly won me over with their unique flavors and comforting aromas. The vibrant green hue of Matcha tea and the aromatic blend of spices in Chai Latte have now become essential parts of my daily routine. Each sip is a moment of pure bliss, a delicious escape from the hustle and bustle of the day. Matcha and Chai, my new favorite companions in this journey called life.

I would never say out loud that they are better than coffee, because my love for coffee will never die. Occasionally I drink a lovely coffee that my husband prepares for me. And I really enjoy it in a completely different way. The aroma, the warmth, the care put into every cup, it's a different kind of love. It's a love that nourishes the soul, just like his love for me. It's a love that awakens me gently, just like his morning kisses. So, no, they are not better than coffee. They are just as comforting, just as needed, just as loved.

I've discovered that matcha tea and chai latte have been instrumental in helping me break free from my coffee addiction. The simple act of preparing these drinks not only satisfies my foodie soul but also brings me the same joy that I once found in my coffee routine.

I have also discovered my love for herbal drinks, and they are now part of my day. After my lunch I always enjoy a lovely cup of herbal infusion or even a chai latte (now with homemade almond milk).

Morning Ritual Reinvented

My morning ritual now involves a sea water drink with apple cider vinegar to start with and followed by my lovely Matcha tea with coconut butter. I do not have breakfast until a couple of hours later and my breakfast is a savory one. I have also stopped with cereals, toasts or sandwiches.

This is how I start my days, and the bloating and inflammation have reduced so much that I cannot even believe it. My new morning ritual, gentle yoga stretches, and a nourishing breakfast have transformed how I feel from inside out. It's truly incredible the difference these small changes have made to my overall well-being.

Listen to Your Body During Menopause

It's crucial to tune in to your body's signals as you navigate the changes that come with menopause. This phase brings about transformations that require both our bodies and minds to adjust. By paying attention to what your body needs, you can make a significant impact on how you feel every day. Embrace these changes and empower yourself to support your body in feeling its best.

Invest in Yourself:

Experiment with new nourishing foods, herbal drinks, and different teas. Take your time to explore what truly nourishes your body and soul. It's a worthwhile investment that pays off in ways you never imagined. Your well-being is worth every bit of effort you put into it. Start today, and watch yourself flourish.

Embrace Menopause as a Chance to Embrace Change!

Menopause is a fantastic opportunity to reassess our lives, make new choices, and embark on exciting adventures. It's a powerful time to redefine ourselves, break free from limitations, and pursue our passions with renewed vigor. Embrace this transformative phase as a chance to prioritise your well-being, dive into new hobbies, and explore uncharted territories. Menopause is not an end but a marvelous beginning of a new chapter filled with endless possibilities. So let's embrace this change wholeheartedly and soar into the next phase of life with confidence and joy!