“Ayurveda teaches us that our bodies are microcosms of the larger universe, and by aligning with nature’s cycles, we can achieve optimal health and vitality.” – Unknown
One of the most fundamental and important teaching of Ayurveda is that we must live our life aligned to the seasons.
We are nature. As natural beings we are affected by the seasonal cycle of life. When we ignore, disregard, or try to overrule this fact,
When we align to the environment around us as though it is also within us (it is!) we can feel much more ease + balance in our life.
The transition and flux often experienced through the early Autumn months as well at the predominating VATA dosha (air + either elements) can leave us feeling ungrounded, and a little all over the place as our bodies and our minds try to make sense and adjust to the new climate.
This is especially important for those who know or suspect they have a high amount of VATA in their constitution naturally.
Here are some key lifestyle tips for balancing and keeping VATA in check which are also good for all doshic types in Autumn Season:
establish a steady routine for eating, exercising, working + sleeping - consistence and routine do wonders for easing the flighty, mobile, uncontrolled nature of VATA
make time for plenty of rest and relaxing, should nourishing activities - now is the time to get stuck into hobbies, craft projects, baking, reading etc
favour slower, slightly warming but grounding yoga practice and other physical activities
stay warm, pay particular attention to your extremities (hands and feet) and think about keeping yourself warm inside and out
try to perform at least one Abhyanga (Ayurvedic Self Massage) each week - you can see my Ayurvedic Abhyanga Self Massage How-To-Guide for more info. Or even better, book yourself in to receive one from an Ayurvedic Massage Therapist - there is no better antidote to the symptoms commonly felt in the Autumn season plus it will help boost your immunity to help fight off coughs, colds and flues in the coming months. Svedana (sweat therapy) is also great.
warmth from fire warms the soul if you are lucky enough to have a wood fire in your home, or a fit pit outside light it regularly and make time to sit by it. Practicing a small ritual of lighting a candle and setting an intention is also a beautiful way to infuse your soul with warmth + love
take time to BE in nature, not just there with it as a backdrop but intentionally being in and amongst all the elements, biology, ecosystem, creatures, weather patterns etc - take your shoes off, lay on the ground, breath in the air and look around - feeling into the environment helps the body adjust to it. (*this one is relevent for all seasons)
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