Seasonal Routine for Winter
In Ayurveda, each season has a dominant Dosha. Around November to February, it is Vata season. The temperatures are lower. So, we often experience changes in the environment and our bodies that encompass the Vata qualities of coldness, roughness and dryness.
During this time, as the atmosphere is cold, it constricts the skin and blood vessels to prevent heat loss of the body. So, the body heat increases, due to which the appetite and digestion capacity increases. People of Vata prakruti or going through Vata imbalances need to take extra care of their food and lifestyle better to maintain dosha balance. If you have sudden onset or recent aggravation of symptoms such as insomnia, constipation, dry skin and hair and lower back pain, you may be going through a Vata imbalance.
General tips for winter to avoid or overcome the Vata imbalances:
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Generally, reduce stress and over activity;
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Favor sweet, sour, salty and having heavy and oily qualities;
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Favor more of grains, nuts and seeds;
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Favor warm and nourishing food and liquids, avoid ice creams and cold drinks;
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Favor cooked foods over raw foods, avoid cold and raw salads;
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Slightly oil foods are OK, using a little ghee is beneficial for all seasons;
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Abyanga - Massage oil into hair and body before bath;
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Keep warm, wear socks and clothing as required;
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Warming exercises like gymnastics and yoga; avoid swimming in cold water;
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Follow regular schedule for sleep, meals and exercise.
Frequent imbalances due to Vata increase during winter are insomnia, constipation, dry skin, dry hair, etc.
Below are some additional tips for overcoming them:
Insomnia
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Avoid electronics one hour before bed;
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Have warm milk;
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Massage your head with warm oil for 10 minutes before bed;
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Alternatively, if you prefer not to make your hair oily, try massage of forehead and temples;
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Massage your feet with oil as well for additional benefits;
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Sleep routine should be set to 10 to 6, go to bed by 10 p.m. and wake up by 6 a.m.
Constipation
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Drink warm water early in the morning, practice to eliminate first thing in the morning;
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Perform Yoga postures like sun salutations once every day.
Dry skin and hair
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Abyanga – Massage oil into hair and body before bath every day;
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Use sesame oil for additional benefits.
Disclaimer: The purpose of this article is for general education only, not for diagnosis, treatment, prevention or cure of any ailments. If you have any health concerns, please consult a trained health professional. Any recommendations are not a substitute for medical examination, diagnosis and treatment for any disease, mental or physical.
Mohan Govindappa, Ayurvedic Life Coach, is a Certified Ayurvedic Practitioner at Satvik Ayurveda in Lake Mary, and can be reached at (267) 357-1221, email [email protected], or visit www.SatvikAyurveda.com
