As the golden hues pepper our landscape, we see our energies drawing inwards, and we prepare to store up our resources for the colder months ahead.
Ayurvedically, this is the season of Vata (air), where our constitutions can become dry and brittle, and our circulatory system begins to draw blood away from the limbs and towards the core organs to support this seasonal shift.
To bring us back into balance, it is a good idea to stoke your inner fire (rekindle your pitta) and invite the earth element (kapha) to ground the unearthed Vata energies.
Before doing so, remember that if you know that you are naturally more Pitta and Kapha in your constitution, then it may be an easier transition for you this fall.
Here are tips and tricks to help everyone, no matter your constitution.
Use Warming Spices
Warming spices increase circulation while also stoking your inner fire to bring back your pitta energy and improve your digestion. These spices can include cinnamon cardamom, cloves, ginger, nutmeg, turmeric, star anise and fennel, among others.
Simmering cinnamon sticks in water on the stove can also be a wonderful way of treating your senses to the scent and flavour of fall.
Stay Hydrated
Warming foods and beverages such as teas, soups, stews and porridge can counteract the natural seasonal tendency towards cracking, dryness and brittleness of hair, nails and skin.
For less dryness, and improved circulation, add skin brushing to your weekly routine.
Indulge in Healthy Fats
Avocados, coconut oils and nut oils such as almond, cashew and macadamia help the body to lock in our moisture. Ingesting such oils, or applying them to the skin, are great ways to receive the nourishing benefits.
Take Ashwagandha
Ashwagandha is a great supplement to add to your diet in the fall as it has digestive strengthening and moistening properties for the body.
You can find ashwagandha as one of the wonderful ingredients blended into our Cocoa Moon Ritual.
Stay Grounded
Be sure to get outside everyday. This gives your body a chance to acclimatize with its own internal intelligence.
You must also be getting proper amounts of sleep. When your body is in a transition, it needs the extra reset time. Be mindful of allowing rest to be a priority for you and the whole family.
As an added wellness and grounding practice, try yoga. Yoga has a very calming effect on the Vata dosha. It provides warmth, stability and focus.
If you already have a yoga practice, add alternate nostril breathing to support more groundedness.
Enjoy Time with Loved Ones
Take a moment to let your gratitude seep in for all the ways you’ve cultivated and grown this year
