Balancing ourselves through Autumn/Early Winter

From an Ayurvedic Perspective:

Ayurveda is the sister study of YOGA for maintaining and balancing our well-being! Our Mind-body.
Rtu carya or seasonal regimens are considered one of the foundations for maintaining good health. We need to recognise and consider our own body type/constitutions and how they are affected by the change of seasons and weather patterns. i.e.; Like increases Like.
Those of us with a lot of the Vata Dosa at this time of year which is of light, changeability, cold, and dry, can run into imbalances.

Therefore during this time of year, a Vata pacifying Lifestyle and Diet is recommended.

This includes:

• A well cooked diet that’s easy to digest.
• Foods that are served warm and heavier, and more oily.
• Foods to be minimised are
  • Dry foods such as popcorn, rice crackers
  • Raw vegetables,
  • Nightshades ie: eggplant, potatoes and tomatoes
• Frozen foods and iced drinks will aggravate Vata and should be avoided
• Recommended flavours for this time of year are foods that are:
  • sweet
  • sour and
  • salty
• Herbs:
  • Most warming herbs and spices balance the Vata dosa though very drying spices such as Chilli, Mustard Seed and Black Pepper should be taken in moderation.
• Drinks:
  • Should be warm
  • A good pacifying Vata tea is equal parts: Ginger, Cinnamon and Cardamon.
  • Cammomile and Liquorice Root and hot water are all excellent too.
• Activities:
  • Imbalancing Vata at this time of year will occur by too much jogging, cycling, exercising and working too hard. (Take a break ???? – says Lou)
  • Rushing, long hours, staying up late, too much loud music or noise will aggravate Vata.
  • Excessive talking, shouting, crying and laughing will do the same – minimise those BIG belly laughs people!
  • Meditation, rest and sleep pacify the Vata system – staying calm and centred.
• Avoid drafts and cold areas – stay warm with natural fibres such as wool are advocated.
• Oil Massage
  • Use a cold pressed sesame oil to massage the soles of your feet and scalp
    • Before bed will help to relax the system and promote a good deep sleep
• Colours that pacify Vata are: red, orange and yellow, and white will calm the nervous system.
• Drinking a warm cup of milk before bed with a pinch of cardamon, ginger and nutmeg
• One should be in bed by 10pm

Source: Dr Shaun Matthews – FLOW with the Season