"Santosha" is a Sanskrit word that means cheerfulness or contentment that arises from within. The nature of the soul per the ancient Vedic spiritual tradition is to be cheerful and full of joy!
The difference between Santosha and ordinary cheerfulness is that regular cheerfulness comes and goes, based on outer life circumstances and situations. True joy and cheerfulness that emerges from this joy is present regardless of what you may be experiencing in a given moment.
This does not, by any means, involve putting on a fake smile, nor being false in any way. But the more you go within yourself, and connect with the eternal part of yourself, the happier you automatically feel, and the more you can then spread your cheerfulness to all those you meet.
I find this particular dessert recipe, with heart-opening roses, creamy avocados and no sweetener necessary (!) so cheerful and uplifting. Roses in Ayurveda are called "hrdaya," which means they support your physical and emotional heart, connecting you with the joy that is your true nature.
Serves 2.
INGREDIENTS:
1 avocado
2 tablespoons cocoa powder
1/2 vanilla extract
2 tablespoons almond butter
1 cup almond milk
1/4 cup coconut oil
1 tablespoon maple syrup
pinch of pink rock salt
rose petals (to garnish)
METHOD:
Blend all ingredients except the rose petals together in a blender until it becomes a creamy, mousse consistency.
Add rose petals to garnish.
You can add your favorite sweetener if you wish (though it is absolutely not necessary for this naturally sweet dessert)!
Close your eyes for a moment prior eating, to connect with your inner Self, which is ever cheerful and joyful, simply because that is the true nature of your real, innermost being.
To learn more delicious recipes like this, and to learn how to design your own Ayurveda lifestyle, in harmony with the rhythms of nature, join The Ancient Way's Wellness Ambassador Program starting March 26th, 2022, to spread the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda in your community.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
ANANTA RIPA AJMERA is founder and CEO of The Ancient Way and Advisor of Ayurveda at THE WELL, a modern wellness club that brings together world-class doctors and master healers for a more balanced you. She is author of The Ayurveda Way, a compilation of 108 simple, doable practices for better sleep, less stress, optimal digestion and more.