An Ayurvedic Approach to Winter Wellness
by Anisah Madden
In Ayurveda, the ancient Indian "science of life", that teaches us how to live in harmony with the natural world, the seasons each have their own qualities that have an effect on us. Winter and early Spring are associated with Kapha - the water and earth elements. It is a cold, wet, dark and heavy time of year, which can result in feelings of sluggishness, depression, and lack of motivation.
Here are some ideas and tips to support you through this time of year, using the wisdom of Ayurveda and Yoga.
In the Kapha season, we can be more prone to lung and sinus congestion, coughs and colds. In order to avoid mucus congestion, Ayurveda encourages us to avoid cold food and drinks (sorry, frappe & ice-cream lovers!) Instead, eat steamed or baked root vegetables, hearty soups and stews, and use warming herbs as culinary seasonings and in herbal teas to improve circulation and stimulate metabolism. Have your heaviest meal at lunchtime, when the digestive fire is strongest. Choose herbs such as cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, clove, cayenne, garlic, thyme, and rosemary, and include them in your daily diet.
In order to counter heaviness, sluggishness and depression, it is important to make a firm commitment to physical activity and stick to it. Try making a one month goal and choose a variety of activities such as yoga, swimming, skiing, walking, and fitness classes to keep it interesting and fun. Remember, it takes 21 days to form a new habit!
If you practice hatha yoga, do a rigourous morning practice and work up a sweat. the Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutation) is a wonderful way to circulate energy through your entire system. Poses such as Fish, Locust, Boat, Bow, and Camel all open the chest, throat and shoulders, relieve congestion, and invigorate your immune and energy systems.
To improve blood and lymph circulation, decrease edema, and move congestion, incorporate skin brushing and oil massage into your daily self care routine. Before you shower, use a dry skin brush and brush your whole body vigorously toward the heart. This will also help decrease cellulite! After skin brushing, give yourself a full body massage with warm sesame oil to counteract skin dryness and reduce cravings for greasy foods. Sesame oil is beneficial for all body types. (Skin brush and sesame oil are both available at the health food store).
Nurture yourself in this vulnerable time by staying aware of your emotional self. Attachment to comforts, possessions, and emotions can be strong at this time of year. Practice detatchment by clearing excess clutter in the home or workspace, acknowledge and then let go of emotional upsets as they arise. There is a natural tendency to turn inward at this time of year. While retreat and rest are essential, be observant and watch the tendency toward inertia and depression. We are lucky to live in a place where winters are sunny and there are lots of outdoor activities. Aim for a good balance between inner reflection and outer activity, stay warm and dry, and apply compassionate self awareness. When you are able to take charge of your own health and well-being, you will naturally feel of uplifted and more positive about your life.
Anisah Madden is a certified Yoga Instructor and Herbalist, and a founding member of the Seva Centre Co-operative. Contact her at anahata.sky@gmail.com or 250.443.4989
