Transitioning Into Fall
It is getting colder and dryer outside, signs we are entering Vata season. According the Ayurveda, the three doshas or energy types/constitutions that we all have inside of us - pitta, vata, and kapha - are also connected to seasons. Vata season comes with cold, dryness in the air, and with a windy energy. It makes us want to try new things and make shifts in our lives. Vata has an airy nature and a strong connection to our mind. That quality can show up as anxiety and depression in the cooler months, which is why it is very important to stay balanced during this seasonal transition. Fall's energy can be like a storm of wind if you don't ground your body and mind. So as the temperatures drop, take all the energy you have cultivated in the summer and turn it into aligned action. Use the creative and fast moving energy, flowing energy of vata without letting it overwhelm you. Tune into nourishing foods, self care rituals with warming oils and grounding yoga poses and meditations to help navigate this shift and cultivate balance. Here are some tips how you can transition into Vata season:
1. Drink hot water with cinnamon. Yes, cinnamon. Warm liquids increase blood circulation in your gastrointestinal system stimulating your agni (digestive fire). Cinnamon is a warming spice that can help promote balance. Please use high quality cinnamon (ceylon cinnamon which does not have coumarin in it, which can act as a blood thinner in high doses) from a brand you trust.
2. Oil pulling. Put a tablespoon of sesame oil in your mouth and swish it around at least five minutes daily, working your way up to 20 minutes. Sesame oils is warming and nourishing - often what your body needs this time of year. In Ayurveda oil pulling is thought to pull out toxins from your mouth and gums, improving overall bodily health and also help with oral health.
3. Avoid cold foods and ned drinks. Crisp salads, raw foods, and cold beverages make you cold from within. They also prevent your digestive system from working efficiently., making you more prone to bloating, gas and constipation. If you make a smoothie use refrigerated fruits not frozen. Add warming ingredients like ginger and cinnamon plus avocado or coconut butter for extra fat.
4. Eat warm, cooked meals. Dishes that are warm, moist and well-cooked (think of curries, soups, stews, steamed greens, spiced quinoa, baked sweet potato, spiced vegetables) balance out the cold, windy qualities of the season. Kitchari, an Ayurvedic comfort food made from rice, dal (lentils) and spices (turmeric, cumin, coriander and ginger) hods immense nutritional value and it is easy to digest. Eat it once a day for three to four days to help reset your system.
5. Hydrate your nasal passages with nasya oil. During Fall your sinus cavities become dry and can be prone ro chafing and bleeding. Drip a few drops of hydrating nasya oil into each nostril before bed. Keep your head tilted slightly backward, so the oil coats as it slides down your nasal passages. This soothing practice can also help ward off headaches, allergies and nasal congestion.
6. Practice Abhyanga. Massaging your body with warm oil hydrates your skin, promotes relaxation and stimulates your lymphatic drainage system. Choose an oil based on your dosa (sesame oil for vita, coconut or almond for pitta, safflower oil for kapha.) Warm your chosen oil in your hands then beginning with your arms rub toward your heart. Next massage your legs and move up your body again. Dry brush before your massage to help your skin absorb more of the oil.
7. Sleep more and set intentional routines. Getting enough rest prepares your body for the upcoming hibernation season of the winter. Turn your device off an hour before bed and create a structured morning and evening routine to help you feel more grounded. Before turning in move through a few grounding yoga poses like Balasans (Childs pose) Supta Boddha Konasana (Reclined Bound Angle Pose) or practice a pranayama (breath exercise) such as alternate Nostril breathing. These techniques can help relax your nervous system and your mind reducing anxiety and centering your body.