Ayurveda is a 5000-year-old medical system that translates to the science/knowledge of life. It is a modality deep rooted in the ancient philosophy that we are seasonal and cyclical beings composed of the natural elements. In order to create more harmony and balance in our minds and bodies for overall well-being Ayurveda recommends living according to the seasons including our diet, lifestyle habits and exercise. When we enhance our bodies natural rhythms we can restore balance to our entire energetic systems.

According to Ayurveda Winter season is known as ‘Kapha’ season. Kapha is the biological union of the earth and water elements. Its qualities are heavy, dull, cold, wet and slow. Kapha lubricates the joints but too much accumulation can create excess mucus in the body. We also can see an increase in the Vata dosha as well, which has the qualities of cold, dry, quick, mobile, light and clear.  
 

In Ayurveda like increases like, so we want to offset this heavy, dull feeling and decrease potential mucus in the body. We also want to focus on warming and ground, to also balance the Vata dosha. We do this by cultivating habits and implement into our lifestyle lighter, drying & warming foods, herbs, spices and activities. Here are our tips below to live more in harmony with the spring season and restore balance to our bodies and mind: 

FOODS:  

In Winter we want to focus on warming, grounding and nourishing, being mindful to balance Kapha and not imbalance Vata doshas. We want to create routine and regularity, especially with our meals. Take breakfast at least an hour after waking before 8.30am and focus on warming, more on the lighter side. Ayurvedic porridge with ghee and a small amount of dates. Otherwise some bakes sweet potato with cinnamon. Lunch should be taken between 12.30-1.30pm and in Ayurveda we recommend this to be the biggest meal of the day, as this is when the sun is shining the brightest, therefore our Agni (digestive fire) will be the strongest- as we’re the reflection of nature. Foods like kitchari, congee, cooked vegetables with basmati rice, soups and broths are great options for both lunch and dinner, making sure dinner is on the smaller side and taken at least 2-3 hours before bed.

LIFESTYLE HABITS:

Our lifestyle habits in Ayurveda come back to our daily routine, Dinacharya. Setting up our days is how we create the fundamentals for our health. Living in harmony with the seasons and focusing on nourishing our bodies. 

– Abhyanga in the morning with organic, cold-pressed black sesame oil to prevent muscle stiffness and dry skin.
– Nasya nasal drops to nourish the nervous system, prevent sinus blockages and stabilise the mind.
– If you do find you have blocked sinuses, take 10 drops of tea tree essential oil in a bowl of warm water, place on the ground and sit on a chair over the bowl with a towel covering your head and the bowl to allow steam to clear sinuses.

EXERCISE

Over the Winter season we want to reduce the heaviness of Kapha but also not aggrevate Vata. Gentle exercises like walking, yoga and pilates are great to create stimulation throughout the body, but aren’t too taxing on our energy levels. 

Bella Rothel has immersed herself in all things wellness, nutrition, mindfulness and holistic health for the past 6 years and is currently studying Naturopathy and Ayurveda after her own health issues and is committed to equipping herself and others with the knowledge and tools to restore our bodies back to balance, harmony and complete vitality. Next year she will be going to India to further her passion and knowledge of Ayurveda and to delve even deeper into the wisdom that is Ayurveda.