Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to health and wellness. According to Ayurveda, the early winter season is dominated by the Vata dosha, which is characterized by cold, dryness, and movement. This means that we would naturally like to balance the Vata dosha during the early winter months. One of the simplest ways to do this is to incorporate Ayurveda into your daily routine.
We are after all an accumulation of the little things we do daily week after week and year after year.
A winter Ayurvedic routine focuses on warmth, nourishment, and grounding.
Here are some of my Ayurvedic daily routines this winter:
Go to bed and wake up using candle light as your last and first bit of light exposure. This helps you regulate your circadian rhythm as well as ends and starts your day free from bright artificial light from electronic devices which cause eye strain and fatigue, especially when used for prolonged periods of time. Candle light is a softer, gentler light that is less likely to cause eye strain.
Practice self-massage Ayurveda recommends waking up before sunrise to align with the natural rhythms of the day. Upon waking, you can practice self-massage with warm sesame oil to nourish and moisturize the skin and improve circulation. Self-massage can also help to calm the mind and balance the Vata dosha.
Gentle movement. Regular exercise is essential for maintaining good health during the winter months. Ayurveda recommends gentle exercises like yoga or stretching to improve flexibility and circulation. You can also try walking or other low-impact activities to keep the body moving.
Drink warm liquids throughout the day During the winter months, it's important to stay hydrated to prevent dryness and keep the body warm. Ayurveda recommends drinking warm liquids like herbal teas, warm water with spices like ginger, cardamom, or cinnamon. My favorite warm drink is CCF Tea. See recipe in the the blog.
Eat warm, nourishing foods Ayurveda recommends eating warm, nourishing foods like soups, stews, and cooked grains during the winter months. These foods are grounding and help to balance the cold, dry qualities of the Vata dosha. You can also incorporate warming spices like ginger, cumin, and black pepper into your meals to improve digestion and boost immunity.
Practice relaxation techniques before bedtime Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of rest and relaxation for overall health and wellness. Before bedtime, you can practice relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or gentle stretching to calm the mind and prepare for restful sleep.
In conclusion, Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to health and wellness that can be particularly beneficial during the winter months. By incorporating these daily routines into winter you can help to balance the Vata dosha and promote optimal health and wellness.