I would not usually consider a smoothie to be a full breakfast, but this one is the exception. It is flavored with cinnamon and vanilla to give a wink and a nudge to Mexican chocolate, and it is deliciously thick and rich. It is also slowly digested helping you feel full longer because of the quality nutrition; high protein content and healthy fats from the cashews and avocado, potassium from the banana , antioxidants and mild, natural stimulants from raw cocao powder (so you can skip the coffee!) and no added sugar thanks to the dates. For a completely raw smoothie, use seeds from half a vanilla pod instead of vanilla extract. Eat with a spoon and don't forget to sprinkle unsweetened cocao nibs and chopped dates on the top. The chewy and crunchy addition is phenomenal!

I am going to keep this short because I am enjoying a trip back to the US indulging in quality time with family and friends. I could not be enjoying their company more, but it is still hard to feel balanced in mind and body when traveling and out of my normal routine. So to start these days away off right I try to get plenty of sleep, drink lots of water, keep my yoga routine, and treat myself to a yummy green juice from Whole Foods (also highly recommended!) a few of the mornings to take the place of this smoothie. But if you are at home, this smoothie is an excellent way to start the day. It is genuinely good and good for you.

Mexican Chocolate and Date Breakfast Smoothie
Inspired by My New Roots
Serves 1

• 1/4 cup/32 g cashews, soaked in water overnight then drained
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. vanilla paste/extract (or seeds from 1/2 vanilla pod)
• 4 dates, pitted
• 1 heaping tsp. cocao powder (unsweetened cocoa powder will work
• 1 small banana
• 1/2 avocado
• 4 ice cubes
• 1/2 cup/ 150 ml almond milk, rice milk, or water

To Finish

• Cocoa nibs
• Chopped dates

1. Add everything to a blender and blend on high until smooth. Poor in a tall glass and top with unsweetened cocao nibs and chopped dates.