In the traditions of Yoga + Ayurveda, fall is known as the season of vata dosha- the time when the elemental energies of air and space predominate. As the warmth (fire) and humidity (water) of summer dissipate, the inner and outer environments become increasingly cool and dry. in this season of harvest, daylight decreases (there’s no saving it!), summer’s abundance wains and all animate things draw energy back toward their core. For many, this time of transition can be challenging – the body may become stiff or achy, stress and anxiety can elevate, we struggle to re-create schedules, and mourn the passing of summer and what is to come. Balance- the ability to remain centered amidst change- is the foundation of well-being.
Essential to re-establishing balance in the fall, is to return to healthy life rhythms. Here are a few tips and a free guided meditation to support you well-being this fall.
Healthy Rest + Sleep: Return to regular patterns of sleep and rest. For most people 10pm – 5 or 6 am is ideal. Prepare for sleep by unplugging (1 hour before bed) and releasing stress. Soaking your feet and oiling them with warm sesame oil is extremely helpful, as is herbal tea. Make time for physical and mental rest everyday. Yoga nidra is a perfect practice.
Regularity in Diet: Make the most of harvest season. Do a cleanse of whole cooked foods (nuts, grains, seeds, legumes, fruits and vegetables and healthy fats). Eat food that is mostly warm and wet, hree regular meals per day, with lunch most important. Have a lighter dinner by 6 to allow for full digestion before bed.
Recommit to Self-Care: You are responsible for maintaining the well-being of your body, mind, energies and heart. No one can do it for you. the more you care for yourself, the more fully you will show up for what is most important in life! Yoga offers a holistic means for self-care.
Yoga Practice: Emphasize steadiness and ease in practice. Forward bending postures, twists, extensions and postures which work the core muscles are excellent. Same Vrtti (1:! breathing) Nadi Shodhana, Ujjayi Pranayama are all recommended. Agni Sara kriya is helpful for physical and mental balance, centeredness and digestion. Golden Egg meditation kriya will help you to gather scattered energies and mind. When you do this meditation, begin at your navel in the mornings and early afternoon, at your heart in the late afternoon or evening.
Non-Attachment: What is unnecessary or unhelpful in your life that can be let go of? This can be an activity, a responsibility, a thought or any way you use energy. Lessen screen time. Moderate consumption of food and beverages, especially those which dull or overstimulate you. Even as you recognize what can be let go of , focus primarily on returning to what is essential in your life. Focus on the relationships that are most important: with yourself, your loved ones and the greater whole of life. re-commit to wats of being that allow you to thrive. Non-attachment is the natural result of returning to your center. Superfluous things will fall away at the right time, like autumnal leaves.
Feel free to email [email protected] with questions or comments. Wishing you all the best in this season of the harvest!
