Honestly, with the temperature fighting to breach the do you really need a doctor to tell you to enjoy a hot cup of cocoa?  Well, just in case you are still feeling a bit guilty, Dr. Rebecca Coleman of the O C E A N Embodiment Center has a virtuous and dairy-free version that she has shared with us from her personal blog.  Of course it contains the all important ingredients, such as cocoa powder, milk alternative, and a touch of sweetener, but her "secret ingredient" adds that extra touch of luxury. According to Dr. Colemen, "It is perfect to warm you up from the winter cold. Plus, the secret ingredient boosts your metabolism. No one has to know its healthy. The kids will love it too – enjoy this radiant recipe!" ...

Hot Chocolate Delight

Prep Time: 5-10 minutes (depending on how handy your supplies are)

Yields: 2 Servings

• 2 cups Soy and/or Almond Milk. (I use Unsweetened Vanilla Blue Diamond Almond Milk, Unsweetened Vanilla WestSoy Milk, or a combination of half of each)
• 1 tsp Organic Vanilla Extract
• 3 tbsp Organic Cocoa (Nature’s First Law Organic Raw Powdered Cocoa)
• 1-2 tsp Organic Coconut Oil (Jungle Organic Coconut Oil, Extra Virgin Cold Pressed)
• Stevia powder or Agave Nectar - sweeten to taste

Combine all ingredients in a 2 quart saucepan (adjusting to taste).  Heat over medium heat until the coconut oil melts.  Blend with a wand style hand mixer (if available for more frothy results) or with a wire whisk. Pour into mugs. Enjoy!

Mocha Option: Add ¼ cup Coffee (Fresh Brewed or Espresso) or 2 tsp Powdered Instant Espresso (Medaglia D’Oro Instant Powdered Espresso) or 2 tsp Mount Hagen Organic Cafe (decaf or regular).