Though we try to hold on the last bit of summer for as long as we can, the reality is that Fall is just around the corner. But don’t despair; this new season has much to offer. Welcome the cooler temperatures to release the heat accumulated during the long hot summer days.
During this transition time, Ayurveda asks us to pause, reflect and strategize. Flow through this seasonal transition and maintain good health and strength. Notice whatever imbalances may be present.
Nature is slowly shifting alongside our body and our minds are also following suit, guided by the rhythm set forth by nature. For example, some of you will experience a change in schedule, activities or responsibilities. For most, this is similar to the New Year energy where we re-group, re-calibrate and set goals all over again.
So as you prepare the new season, here are some of my favorite Fall initiation practices:
- As nights grow cooler and darker, notice a change in your evening routine from that of Summer. For example, begin to slow down and unplug before 8 pm. Enjoy a warm bath, a self-oil massage (abhyanga) or nourishing warm spiced milk at bedtime.
- Slowly move away from eating raw foods like salads and favor soupy and hearty stews that are grounding and warming to offset the windy, cool, rough qualities of the fall.
- Bundle up! Don’t get lazy and forget to layer and protect the ears, back of the neck and back, eyes and head from the cooler and/or windier temperatures. If cold air enters these areas it can easily disturb the principle of Vata in the body and create ringing in the ears, low back pain, neck pain, dry skin, and cough.
- Ayurvedic fall detoxification is highly recommended to release summer heat, irritation, and inflammation both mentally and physically. During the transition between summer and winter it is usually a good time to detoxify the mind and body to avoid the disease that come with Winter like flus, colds, congestion, upper respiratory infections, etc.
- Enjoy warm drinks. Make herbal teas with basic kitchen spices that can help calm the nervous system and support digestion like cardamom, nutmeg, coriander, ginger, clove and cinnamon.
Stay in the flow and follow Nature’s rhythm shifting around you. Awaken to the beautiful transition all around you and you will live in balance and health.
If you like this article, study with us! Check out our Calendar of workshops, retreats, and certifications.
