autumn ayurveda: let go and turn inward
The power of change; we see it in every season. Nature innately adapts to change. A physically fit body and a steady and creative mind are the result for humans who master the practice of moving through change—personal or professional—with focus, ease and grace.
A fresh season is the perfect time to learn how Ayurveda, the sister science to yoga and the art of self-care, can improve everything from workouts to sleep, digestion to mental clarity, emotional balance and creativity.
In fall, nature’s rhythm is to let go and turn inward. Trees shed their leaves. The sun clocks shorter days. Crops are harvested. Many animals hibernate. In essence, nature slows down. It’s a season of respite and rejuvenation.
Rest is as necessary an element in our own routines. When we align with the slower pace during fall, whether it’s jogging or practicing yoga, we create long-term benefits and optimal potential in our health, well-being, career, and personal relationships.
This fall, integrate these easy, effective, and enjoyable Ayurvedic tips into your daily routine. You’ll discover how a little rest and relaxation will actually rev up your workouts and expand your inner bliss.
5 Ayurvedic Tips for Autumn
Get to the root of nature-inspired poses
Strengthen your core in vrksasana. Strike a tree pose next to a real one. With slow, steady breaths, align with the tree’s energy of letting go and rooting down. Exhale: Mentally release foods, thoughts, or relationships that no longer nourish you. Inhale: Extend the legs and expand toes onto the ground. Root into what nourishes you. Align with earth’s stable quality and state aloud your personal core values. Know that universal rhythms of change always support your dreams and goals.
Meditation cushions are the new yoga mats
Discover why professional athletes include daily meditation time. Create a Bat Cave, a cozy place at home to retreat for eight minutes a day to rest and recharge. Unplug from the harsh light of smartphones. Close eyes and enter the stillness of your inner world. Wait and watch. Enjoy the inner light of your soul as it begins to glow brighter. You’ll emerge revitalized and ready to deal with the jokers in Gotham City.
The sweet smell of success
Aromatherapy will help get you to a place of tranquility. Transform your home into a blissful haven with spices and essential oils. Make hot mulled cider with warming spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, clove, and vanilla. The aroma will fill your home, creating an instant spa effect. Use soothing oils like lavender, sage, pine, and frankincense in a diffuser, or blend in your favourite base oil and rub on soles of feet at bedtime.
When in doubt, massage it out
Autumn winds are typically cool and dry, causing dehydration and irritation in the skin. Invest in a few minutes of Abhyangha—warm oil self massage—three times a week before showering and stoke a youthful glow. This Ayurvedic self-massage uses warm herbal oil to lower stress, improve immunity, stimulate the lymph system, and improve skin tone and texture. (Click here for how to do this powerful at-home spa therapy.)
“Silence at the proper season is wisdom” –Plutarch
Cooler weather and blustery winds can aggravate the ears and sinuses. On rides and runs, don a warm hat or ear warmer. (Ed’s note: we’re partial to our Run With Me Toque and Run With Me Ear Warmer.) In addition to keeping you cozy, having your ears blocked from the chaos of the outside world does wonders to calm the mind.
P.S. Don’t forget to have fun. Sprint to catch falling leaves. Bench-press a great pumpkin 20 times before carving it. Regular playtime supports the body’s immune system and stokes an attitude of gratitude.
Kellen is an Ayurvedic Lifestyle Counselor, yoga teacher, writer, and lululemon ambassador in Santa Barbara. She believes daily self-care is the most important element of health, well-being, and optimal creativity. That, and the occasional cupcake. Connect with her at www.kellenbrugman.com.
