By: Jennifer Much
As snowflakes gently drop from the sky and each exhale of breath can be seen, we are blissfully aware that winter is upon us. Alongside those chilly mornings with frosted windows, is an opportunity to embrace our bodies and promote healing with the ancient practice of Ayurveda.
Just as the seasons change, how we nourish our bodies changes, too. When preparing for winter, there are ways we can instinctively take care of ourselves, despite the dropping temps outside! There is no better way to embrace this season than gently focusing on our minds and hearts.
Ways to Balance Vata
Since the Vata dosha is associated with lightness, space, and coldness, it brings forward great changes. The season begins from late fall into early winter before welcoming the Kapha season.
During this season, be diligent in watching out for frenetic and unpredictable energy. With all the hustle and bustle of the holidays, we can often feel depleted. The cold weather can also wreak havoc on our skin and cause irregular digestion.
The best way to revitalize your mind, body and spirit is by balancing Vata.
Nosh on Warm Foods
Warm up your heart and stomach by focusing on hearty, cooked foods. Consider homemade soups, stews, casseroles, and dishes with root vegetables. Not only are these options rich in nutrients and vitamins, but there is something magically nostalgic like enjoying your favorite childhood soup.
Give these warm recipes a try!
Sip on Something Hot
Enjoy your favorite cup of coffee, a mug of hot chocolate or a steamy cup of tea. Slowly sip to savor the heat and flavors and take a minute to embrace calmness. Warm milk and stir in ghee and a drizzle of honey for a soothing nighttime elixir before bed.
Stretch Your Muscles
Whether you are in our studio or at home, grounding yoga poses can help stretch your muscles and keep you focused on the present.
One of the most fitting grounding yoga poses is Tadasana, or the Mountain pose. Just as the Vada dosha revolves around cold, mountains feature billowy snow-covered peaks.
The Mountain pose, while simple, is the foundation for all standing yoga poses. Practice this pose by standing tall while taking slow, deep breaths. Feel the stability and strength of the earth beneath your feet. Not only is this pose powerful, but it's highly connective and mindfully rewarding.
Meditate & Appreciate
Meditation is one of the most beneficial relievers of stress. With all the holiday shopping and festivities on our calendars, we all could use a little extra time to meditate and find our centers.
Find a quiet spot at home or in nature and wrap yourself in a cozy blanket, scarf, or shawl. Close your eyes and focus on your breath and the sound of the world around you. Leave behind your worries and immerse yourself in thankfulness, gratitude, and peace.
In tune with the holidays, listen to soft classical ballads to accentuate your experience. Repeat this as often as you need. We also invite you to a tranquil sound bath session on December 22nd from 11:15 am until noon and a Stretch, Restore, & Sound Bath class on January 14th from 2-3:30pm.
Treat Yourself to a Massage
There is so much tension that swirls around this time of year, so don't forget to schedule time for you, too!
Massage Therapy not only works on tired muscles, but heals the mind. In light of Ayurveda, ask to add hot stones to your next massage. As the heated stones touch your skin, your muscles will be cradled in a soothing warmness. Paired with meditation, this is the ultimate way to celebrate Ayurveda and to combat the cold.
Not only is this a gift to yourself, but you can share the love by gifting the experience to a loved one or friend as well. Gift certificates are available in traditional paper form or electronically.
Speaking of gifts, we can help you find the perfect present for everyone on your list with our collection of boutique items at our studio!
5 Unique RY Gift Ideas
Stop by when the studio opens 20 minutes before all yoga classes or make an appointment for your shopping needs and give the most healing gift!
Lavender Eye Pillows
Essential Oils
KarAva Maple Syrup
RY Merchandise
RY Gift Certificates