24 Aug Spring is in the air
Energy is a fundamental concept in Ayurveda and is known as “prana” or life force. Prana is believed to be present in all living things and is responsible for sustaining the body and mind.
We all know we are a complex interplay of energy and matter. Interplay being the key word here. The energy of the environment around us affects us deeply.
The way in which Ayurveda talks and categorizes energy is through the three Doshas known as – Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. The theory of the three Doshas is the crown jewel of Ayurvedic science and the cornerstone of all its diagnostic and treatment modalities.
Spring is coming and Ayurveda has a lot to say about this season and the change in energy.
As the sun warms up the earth, it also warms up our bodies, and just as the earth begins to become softer and moist, as do our bodies. We start to warm solidified ama (toxins) which are then liquified and released.
Spring is the season that the body does its own spring cleaning and Kapha toxins are released from the body. The word Kapha means to stick together. Or, less pleasantly, it means phlegm (think of “kaph” as “cough”).
Kapha is the Ayurvedic constitution made up of earth and water elements.
In nature, when earth and water mix, you get mud. When these elements mix in the body, you get excessive mucus production from the intestinal and respiratory mucus membranes. So, think hay fever, congestion, and colds. I am sure you or someone you know always gets sick at the start of the season?
Ayurveda is preventative medicine. So, what can you do to avoid congestion, spring allergies and the like, and spring clean your body:
- Cleanse and Detoxify: Spring is a natural time for the body to release accumulated toxins from winter. A diet rich in bitter and astringent tastes help your body cleanse toxins:
Eat Bitter Tastes:
- Leafy Greens: Kale, spinach, rocket, dandelion greens, and swiss chard.
- Broccoli: A cruciferous vegetable with a slightly bitter taste.
- Brussels Sprouts: Another cruciferous vegetable that can have a bitter note.
- Endive: A bitter lettuce often used in salads.
- Dandelion Greens: Known for their bitter flavor and detoxifying properties.
- Radishes: Certain varieties like daikon have a bitter taste.
Astringent Tastes:
- Legumes: Beans, lentils, and chickpeas are examples of astringent foods.
- Pomegranate: A fruit with astringent qualities and rich in antioxidants.
- Cauliflower: A cruciferous vegetable that has a mild astringent taste.
- Cranberries: These berries have a characteristic astringent quality.
- Quinoa: A light and astringent grain often used as a rice substitute.
- Green Apples: Apples with a bit of tartness fall into the astringent category.
Incorporating a variety of bitter and astringent foods into your meals can help support your body’s natural detoxification processes and maintain balance during the seasonal transition.
- Engage in Daily Movement: Spring is a time of increased energy and movement in nature. Embrace regular exercise or yoga to keep your circulation flowing and maintain a healthy weight. Focus on activities that energise you without being too intense, as overexertion can disturb your body’s balance. Morning walks, swims or gentle yoga routines can be great choices.
- Practice Mindfulness and Meditation: Spring’s energy can sometimes bring restlessness or scattered thoughts. Dedicate time to mindfulness, meditation, or deep breathing exercises. This will help calm your mind, reduce stress, and promote mental clarity. Cultivating a sense of inner stillness can also help you stay grounded during this transitional season.
- Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Abhyanga, a self-massage with warm oil, is a rejuvenating practice recommended in Ayurveda. During spring, use a lighter oil like sesame or almond, and gently massage your body before bathing. This practice not only nourishes the skin but also helps balance the nervous system, promote circulation, and soothe the senses
- Remember if the above sounds like too much, then the time-honored healer, laughter, is also very effective.
Ayurveda is a personalized approach, and your constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances (Vikriti) will influence the specific recommendations that suit you best. It’s always a good idea to consult an Ayurvedic practitioner before making significant changes to your routine, especially if you’re new to these practices or have specific health concerns.
I’m offering all Monty readers a free 20-minute consultation to talk about your health concerns and how an Ayurvedic lifestyle can benefit you, text or call Supriya on 0417 888 830 for an appointment.
