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As the seasons shift, it is wise to follow the changes in nature by incorporating into your routine some Ayurvedic practices. The sometimes drastic shifts in weather can make our body more vulnerable to ill health, so it is of even greater importance that we nurture ourselves from the inside out. While wintertime may seem leaving, there are still some remnants of the season around. Here are some basic Ayurveda tips that’ll help you weather the rest of the season before shifting into spring.
Experts ancient and modern have both recommended Vitamin C rich foods to boost immunity. To get the full benefits of Vitamin C, adding Vitamin C-rich seasonal foods into your diet is a great step. These include citruses, broccoli, red cabbage, Brussel sprouts, amla (Indian gooseberry) and strawberries. Check out which of these would match up to your constitution.
Each of our Doshas demands different types of physical stimulation in order to balance our temperaments and bodies, but during the winter, it is best to be precautious if you are just starting an exercise routine. The cold weather causes our muscles to stiffen. Start with slow and gentle exercises that will not strain your body. Since we are stuck inside during a large part of the winter it is important to keep active through a fitness routine.
Our bodies are trying to bulk up during the winter, so often our appetites tend to soar during this season. It is common to gain a little weight during the winter, but with a little bit of mindfulness you can easily maintain your regular weight. Add filling foods to your diet by eating more proteins like beans, tofu and eggs. Also add in warming spices and warm beverages that’ll help heat the body from the inside out, which brings us to our next tip.
The body expends a lot of energy to stay warm, so we must take efforts to preserve energy for more vital tasks. Wear appropriate clothing including hats, gloves, scarves and multiple layers. Also, drink plenty of warm beverages, especially tea. If you feel yourself starting to get chilled when you are sitting down, get up and walk around for a little bit.
General advice, while useful, may not specifically address your constitutional needs. It is advisable to consult with an Ayurvedic health practitioner with the change in seasons to fully assess your own set of needs. They can help you use the knowledge you know to create a wintertime plan to specifically match your needs.
Stay Warm!
