Yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda, focuses on creating balance in our bodies. Ayurveda recommends that we eat and live in relationship to the seasons in order to keep our bodies properly aligned. I love the idea of living closer to nature and learning from the innate wisdom of its cycles. As we celebrated the autumn equinox last week, I’ve started thinking about how I can do my part to bring my body into balance with the fall energy. Here are some ideas of the ways that I intend on keeping with the Ayurvedic philosophy this autumn, in case you want to join me. 🙂
Choose warm, nourishing foods
A big part of living with the seasons is eating accordingly. As we start to transition into fall, it can be helpful to think in terms of how we can warm our bodies from the inside, as the temperature starts to get cooler on the outside. The fall is the perfect time to start nourishing our bodies with soups and stews. There are also a wide variety of fall fruits and vegetables available to us. Roasting root veggies, making apple cobber, and baking pumpkin pies are all delicious ways to start eating with the season.
Stay away from cold foods
As we begin to shift into autumn, we want to be warming our bodies up, not cooling them down. This is the time to start swapping out the cold salads and smoothies we enjoyed all summer for warming soups, hot teas, and rich apple cider. Start to trade off cooling foods for ones that will help you feel nice and cozy.
Make changes
Change is always present in our lives, and never is that more evident than in the fall. The leaves begin to change color and nature starts to let go of everything it doesn’t need. It is important for us to take a cue from nature, and use this time to let go of everything that is no longer serving us. Take a good look at your life and start to consider where it’s time to make some changes. What can you let fall away in order to make space for something better?
Go within
The fall and winter are quieter, more retrospective times. This is the perfect opportunity to start creating a daily routine to focus on your own self care. Take some time each day to do some restorative yoga, light stretches, or meditation. Start to slow down and prepare for the cooler seasons ahead. Spending some quiet time in contemplation each day will help you get in touch with your goals and dreams, and focus on what you want to harvest this season.
What are some ways in which you plan to bring the autumnal energy into your life? Please comment below. I’d love to hear your ideas!
Happy harvesting, friends!
Be well,
Ambar