The winter months are a time filled with rest and preparation for the coming spring season ahead. The weather is often cold, damp, or gray, with periods of rain or snow. The dominant element during this time is water, which has a tendency to aggravate most Kapha and Vata doshas. If you’re looking for a way to stay grounded in the midst of the storm (or blizzard), try these Ayurvedic rituals to help bring you back into equilibrium.
Rise and shine: With the dark skies that linger into the mid-day, it’s natural to want to sleep in until noon. Make sure to rise between 7 and 8AM, even if you stay in bed to meditate or practice Pranayama breathwork. This will help to calm your nerves and ease you into the day with a balanced mind.
Keep it toasty: Take a warm bath or shower before eating breakfast. This will bring heat into your body and provide stimulation to your organs. Massage sesame or olive oil into your damp skin for about 5-10 minutes to help expand the muscles and eliminate any toxins from the lymphatic system. A little self-love never hurt anyone!
Spice it up: Our diets change drastically during the cold weather, mainly due to our climate and physical activity. It’s important to incorporate bitter, spicy, and pungent flavours such as turmeric, cayenne, fenugreek, cinnamon, and black pepper. We naturally gravitate towards heavier foods such as grains and meat; however, it’s crucial to avoid sluggish foods such as dairy and wheat that plummet our energy levels and slow down our digestive system. Try to utilize the beautiful root vegetables during the season such as sweet potatoes, yams and beets to help ground your energy to Mother Earth.
Brighten your day: Colour therapy can be a very powerful tool when used properly. If the sky is grey and gloomy, try wearing bright coloured clothing to help offset your environment. By wearing red, orange and yellow tones, this will help to balance and ground your body and align your bottom three chakras. Plus, who wants to wear black for a whole season anyways?!
When in doubt, move it out: If your body is still feeling tired and sluggish, try practicing yoga asanas on a daily basis. This will help to keep your digestion flowing and alleviate any stiff muscles you may accumulate from shivering. If yoga isn’t your cup of tea, then try relaxing body work such as Tai Chi, swimming, or even meditation. It will allow your body to breathe and revel in the stillness of the beautiful winter season.
Despite most beliefs, winter is actually a time for building immunity, so ensure that you’re going to bed at a decent hour, taking time for yourself, and listening to your bodies needs as it prepares for the coming New Year!