AYURVEDA FOR AUTUMN AND THE CARE OF VATA DOSHA
Ayurveda, the science of life, teaches us to take note of nature and become more aware of the continual transformation occurring in the natural world. By adapting our own daily routine to reflect seasonal changes, we can remain in harmony all year around.
As the vibrant colors of summer fade into the golden hues of autumn, it's time to adapt our lifestyle and diet to balance the increase of Vata Dosha which governs this time of year.
Autumn is dry, cold, rough, mobile, light and windy. All these qualities aggravate Vata Dosha and cause it to increase in our being. We may experience dehydration, dry skin, a scattered or anxious mind and may feel cold and ungrounded.
The most practical and effective way to remedy these symptoms is to identify the qualities responsible (listed above), and then choose to adopt the opposite qualities in our life via food and daily practises.
Let's explore Ayurvedic tips to embrace the essence of autumn and foster well-being during this beautiful time of year:
· WARM: Choose warming foods and drink. Starting the day with a glass of warm water or ginger/tulsi tea. This can stimulate good digestive capacity and bring warmth to the body on a cold morning. Avoid dried fruits, raw veggies and crunchy foods such as crackers and chips. Enjoy warming spices such as ginger, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg to kindle the digestive fire.
· MOIST: Consider having soups, stews and porridges as your main meals. These are easy to digest and will bring moisture and nourishment to the body. Adding healthy fats such as ghee, flax, coconut or olive oil to meals will help keep the tissues hydrated. Drink warm water through day as needed.
· HEAVY/NOURISHING: Practice Abhyanga (Daily Oil Massage). Massage warm oil into the entire body, then take a warm shower of bath to encourage the oil to penetrate deeply. This fortifying Ayurvedic practice brings lubrication and tone to the tissues. It counteracts the “light” and “dry” qualities of Vata and can also support an unsettled mind. Vata Botanical Body Oil is a perfect choice for Autumn.
· STABLE: Create a regular daily routine. Avoid unnecessary activities and travel. Do not go outside on windy/blustery days.
· LIFESTYLE: Gentle yoga and pranayama are appropriate during Vata Season. Contact an experienced yoga teacher for assistance if new to this practice. Restful sleep is essential during Autumn and/or if you have a Vata predominant constitution. Be in bed be 9:30 PM with all electronic devices off, and asleep by 10:00 PM.
Through mindful dietary choices, consistent routines, and self-care practices we can navigate the transition of seasons with grace and resilience. Let us welcome these crisp Autumn days as a gentle reminder to slow down and nourish ourselves from the inside out.