After the warm summer months this year, it’s hard to believe the upcoming months will be mainly dark skies and cold. To ensure we remain feeling energized and vibrant, regardless of the weather, it’s important that we make some small adjustments to our lifestyle.
According to the ancient philosophy of Ayurveda, we are an inseparable part of nature. Our universe consists of the five elements of earth, fire, water, air, and ether. These are then grouped into 3 governing principles called Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
The whole of existence can be assigned to one of the groups – they contain all of our inner and outer worlds, meaning bodily functions and mental processes. The whole of our being.
Similarly, we can divide our year into three categories. Instead of splitting the year the classical, Western way, into spring, summer, autumn, and winter, we can divide it into Vata-, Pitta- and Kapha- dominant phases. We can do the same with different times of the day – at different hours, we can experience the stronger influence of either of the Doshas.
A Balancing Season
By following the teachings of Ayurveda, we know which Doshas need to be balanced out at which time of the year.
At the start of autumn, the weather becomes dryer, cooler, windier, and harsher in general. This season comes as the biggest shock, especially in the Netherlands where the temperature drops quite suddenly. First, we are spoiled by the hazy summer, and then, within a few days the temperature drops by fifteen degrees. This can throw anyone out of balance!
In early autumn and winter, our bodies begin to accumulate more Vata Dosha, which is made of mainly air and space elements. This is when you might start feeling cold, dry, and tight (stiff joints, tensed muscles, etc…), and prone to depression. You might experience your energy levels on a full-time low… If you happen to be one of the Vata people, this can be especially tangible for you.
What can we do to make this time of the year more enjoyable?
Firstly, we can pay attention to the food we eat. The transition from the Pitta (summer months) to Vata can leave quite some accumulated excess heat in the body. The best way of getting rid of it is by eating bitter or astringent foods. Once we neutralize the Pitta, we should divert to the oily, heavier foods neutralizing Vata.
The colder seasons are the time to begin consuming beverages and foods that warm up our body and soul, for example, soups, stews, and porridges. Putting extra emphasis on including grains, oils, and dairy (if you are not vegan) in our diet. Earth and water elements help neutralize the effect of Vata, and also sweet, sour, and slightly spicier flavors.
Now is finally the moment you can eat those high in protein and fatty foods guilt-free! In moderation of course. And, when we say “fats”, we mean the healthy types, such as olive or coconut oils, avocados…
A list of foods you can include on your autumn/winter menu are:
Fruits: apples, avocados, bananas, dates, figs, grapefruits, grapes, lemons, limes, mangoes, oranges, papayas, prunes (soaked), raisins (soaked), tangerines.
Vegetables: beetroots, garlic, carrot, chilies, okra, onions, pumpkins, squash (winter), sweet potatoes.
Types of grains: amaranth, basmati rice, brown rice, oats, quinoa.
Types of legumes: kidney beans, mung beans, miso
Dairy (if you are not vegan): butter, buttermilk, cream, ghee, kefir, yogurt
Oils: almond, ghee, olive, peanut, safflower, sesame
Sweeteners: honey, maple syrup, rice syrup, molasses
All types of nuts work in your favor this season, as they are a source of healthy oils.
A Healthy Routine
Since Vata is erratic, it’s a good idea to avoid practicing erratic daily routines. Instead, try to plan your days ahead and make sure you give yourself enough time in between appointments to avoid unnecessary stress.
It’s suggested to wake up early, so you can sit and embrace the stillness before the city comes to life. This is sure to leave you in a relaxed state for the rest of the day! Try to also set an early bedtime – not only to enjoy more rest but avoid the chilly, unwelcoming winter nights.
Indulge in warm baths with essential oils, where you can allow your body to regain lost heat. Developing a routine of self-massage with oils also helps fight with dryness, which is a common issue during Vata season.
Exercise
Let’s not forget about the importance of daily movement. Even on cold days (during the times of working from home), it’s a good idea to move outside of the house. Vata is very easily aggravated by fast, mobile activities, so consider slow, gentle, strengthening forms of exercise instead. Practicing soft forms of yoga, such as yin or breath exercises (pranayama) to prevent colds. You can also try to incorporate swimming, hiking, biking, tai chi, or walking into your routine.
During Vata season, it’s nice to incorporate a sensation of warmth, grounding, stability, and focus into your daily practice. If you are short on time to attend our yoga classes at The Conscious Club, you can practice the following asanas to level out the Vata energy:
Mountain pose
Warrior I
Warrior II
Tree Pose
If you feel you need some extra grounding, you can practice:
Cat-cow
Cobra
Sphinx
Child’s pose
We hope we have equipped you well for the upcoming months. Especially this year, when our activities are restricted due to the ongoing pandemic, we need to take extra care of our physical and mental health. Listen to your body and remember it is sacred, so don’t push yourself too hard. You might experience mood changes due to the weather – even then, just accept what is. And, make use of the above mentioned. Be gentle and caring as you would be towards a good friend.
May you enjoy the beauty of this season.
- Written by Michelle Prygiel
