Winter season is known for its cold, windy, dry and heavy characteristics which can aggravate Kapha dosha. However those same qualities are promt to increase Vata energy, therefore Vata individuals needs to pay special attention to this time of the year.
The short days, and the lack of regular sun light, make the Winter the time to withdraw from the hectic social life that we engaged in the seasons past. Winter brings the time for quiet, calm nights and hibernating. Unfortunately this lack of interaction can also leave us drained, feeling uninspired and stagnate energy around us.
That's why following the winter guidelines help us to feel more empowered to gain control to prepare ourselves for the long winter nights. Ayurveda teaches us that, "Like increases like and opposite balance."
Winter is considered the Kapha season for its damp, and cold qualities.
GENERAL GUIDELINES TO INSULATE YOUR WINTER
In Winter our digestive fire or agni is strongest than in the Fall or Summer, so our bodies are designed to be feed with a more nutritious, heavy, and rich calorie diet. Wholewheat bread, steamed vegetables, (not too hot,) creamy, mushy soup with ghee and some crunchy croutons would be ideal for lunch. If your care for meat, Ayurveda recommends chicken and turkey.
A good Winter breakfast includes oatmeal, cornmeal, and either tapioca cream, or quinoa cream. A good tea recipe includes 1/2 teaspoon of ginger, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon and a pinch of clove. This drink is energetic and heating, in order to balance those chilly Winter days.
Sleeping in the day time is not recommended because it will increase Kapha, slow down the metabolism and reduce the gastric fire.
The cloudy days in the winter tends to make us feel depressed, and lonely, so seek for companions. Your family, friends, and pets are your best allies to feel connected and reduce melancholy feelings.
The best herbs for Winter are pippali, liquorice (avoid if high blood pressure is a concerned), ginger, black pepper, and kutki. Chyavanprash is also good as it is used for herbal tonic.
Light fasting is also recommended of a day or two. Drinks such as apple or pomogranate juices are good if you enjoy.
Keeping a predictable routine is best to keep Kapha and Vata dosha in balance. At the end of the day rub a small amount of sesame oil on your scalp and feet for a sound sleep.
Exercise in the Winter is beneficial to support physical and mental well-being. Think of early walking, tai chi, or gentle yoga for Vata. To combat feeling of sluginess give yourself a push with more invigorating exercises such as dancing, jogging, a challenging hike or snowshoeing. 6:00 to 10:00 am or pm are best times to exercise.
Winter is the season to slow down, so make a priority 10 minutes for quiet meditation and breathing exercises to recharge and give yourself a deserved break.
If you are struggling with colds, allergies and congestion consider to seek help. Consult and Ayurvedic Therapist for a customized wellness program to your individual needs.
Monica Daza-Stephan | Ayurveda & Yoga Therapist | Phone: 416-275-9141 |Email info@yogafymylife.com