Travel restrictions and the lack of social gatherings have given me more time to do things I enjoyed but never actually carved out time for. Like playing the piano.

Quarantine has reunited me with my old piano pieces like Mendelssohn’s Rondo Capriccioso and lots and lots of Bach. When I play Bach on the piano, I’m fascinated how each hand independently holds its own. Unlike Mozart or Beethoven where the left hand is the accompaniment and the right hand is the melody, the polyphonic nature of Bach enables it to simultaneously weave two melodies together. Each can stand on its own. But intertwining the right and left hand together synergistically creates a more complex and intricate piece.

Relationships are like that too. The best kinds of relationships are those that respect each person’s own power and greatness, but TOGETHER they are a magical force to be reckoned with. We each have a unique melody to share with the world, and yet there are some melodies that interlock with ours that enable us to create something far more beautiful together in the world. It’s synergy at its finest.

Black pepper and turmeric are a powerful pair. Turmeric contains the compound curcumin, and black pepper contains the compound piperine. Studies have shown that piperine enhances curcumin absorptions in the by body by up to 2,000%. Together when combined, they are a powerful anti-inflammatory team that fights infection and improves digestion.

If you’re looking to include these into your diet, here is an easy recipe:

GINGER TURMERIC GOLDEN MILK:

• 1 cup of plant milk plus 1 teaspoon coconut oil. (The small amount of fat helps with nutrient absorption.)

• 1/2 teaspoon of ground turmeric

• big pinch of freshly ground black pepper

• 1 small (1/4 inch) piece of ginger root peeled and grated (more or less to taste)

• 1 big pinch or sprinkle of ground cardamom

• 1 big pinch or sprinkle of ground cinnamon

• Honey, maple syrup, or monkfruit extract to sweeten (optional)

Directions:

1. Blend or whisk all the ingredients together and warm on the stove over medium heat. Simmer (do not boil) for 15 minutes. Enjoy!