Written by Ann Shepphird

There are a number of nice things about the partnership between La Costa Resort & Spa and the Chopra Center, which was founded by Deepak Chopra and David Simon and has its headquarters on the grounds (pictured, right). The first is the center's daily guided meditation, free of charge to resort guests. There are also yoga classes, Ayurvedic spa treatments and longer wellness programs. But if there is one really unique touch Chopra has brought to the resort it’s his ginger elixir, made out of fresh ingredients and designed to jump-start the digestive system. Chopra advises one ounce before lunch and another before dinner. Here is the recipe for those who’d like to make it at home: 1 3-to-4 inch piece of unpeeled fresh ginger root 4 to 6 lemons 1 cup purified water ¾ cup raw organic honey ¼ tsp black pepper Cut the ginger into ½-inch pieces. Using a powerful juicer, push the ginger through the juicer and juice enough to make 1 cup. In a citrus juicer, juice the lemons to make 1 cup of juice. Combine the juices in a large bowl. With a wire whisk, mix the water, honey and black pepper into the ginger and lemon juice. Whisk until blended. Store in a pitcher or glass jar in the refrigerator. Don't chug the whole thing -- just one ounce is recommended. And a word to the wise: It definitely has a kick.