Ayurvedic wisdom for winter wellbeing!

13 Dec Ayurvedic wisdom for winter wellbeing!

As the year comes to an end, it is time to welcome the increasing cold and sharper winds! We call this “Hematha Ritu – the Pre Winter-Season”, according to Ayurveda. Approaching from mid – November and into mid – January, this marks to need to prepare for the cold winter.

In the winter season – because of the body’s natural mechanism to protect itself from the cold- we can notice in time that our digestive fire (Agni) is at its peak, making this the best time to nourish the body with wholesome foods and follow routines that preserve our health.

Let us explore how you can align your lifestyle and habits with Ayurvedic principles to thrive during this season.

Why is winter important?

In winter, the cold and dry climate can aggravate Vata dosha, alongside which the body also holds the strongest Agni (digestion), allowing the digestion of heavier, nutrient rich foods. However, improper care during this season can lead to imbalances, causing dry skin, joint pain, and seasonal illnesses like colds and coughs. Following the Ayurvedic practices ensures that the body remains warm, nourished and balanced.

Food practices to indulge in –

The foundation for the winter season is consuming foods that are warm and those which nourish your body.

1. Indulge in foods that are specifically sweet, sour and salty in taste, because these kinds of food help you to balance the Vata dosha, thereby protecting you from internal and external dryness.
2. Add in warming spices like pepper, cardamom, cinnamon, clove and turmeric- they are good to keep the energy and warmth of the body intact.
3. Increase your intake of dried fruits and seeds. But remember to soak the dried fruits overnight to increase the digestive capability and absorption to the body.
4. Include some cow’s ghee in your diet as it will help to balance Vata dosha and impart the required nourishment to the skin.
5. Avoid excess pungent, bitter and astringent food. These can increase appetite, which is undesirable as the appetite is already high during this season.

Lifestyle adjustments for winter-

1. Daily Oil Massage– Massage the body with warm sesame oil or Ayurvedic oils like Sesame oil, Mahanarayana oil, or – Ksheerabala oil. This practise relieves dryness, strengthens muscles, and boosts circulation.
2. Dress appropriately– wear warm, layered clothing, especially protecting the head, chest, and feet from cold.
3. Exercise Regularly – Engage in physical activity like yoga, brisk walking or light weight training to balance the Kapha dosha by keeping the body active.
4. Sleep cycle – longer nights in winter allow for extended rest. Ensure you do not skip your sleep, because that can aggravate your Vata dosha.

To sum up, winter is more than just a season, it is an invitation to align with nature’s rhythm and embrace practices that nurture the body, mind and soul. By following the principles of Ayurveda for the winter season, you can harness the season’s potential to build strength, boost immunity, and prepare for the challenges of winter. Ayurveda reminds us that seasonal transitions are opportunities to restore balance and deepen our connection with ourselves and the world around us.

This winter, let the wisdom of Ayurveda be your guide. Embrace warm, nourishing foods, adopt protective and mindful habits, and stay accustomed to the body’s needs. When you live in harmony with the seasons, you not only safeguard your health but also find joy and vitality in every moment.

Step into winter with confidence and care, and let it be a season of well-being and transformation.