VATA SEASON: Late Fall to Late Winter (Late Sept. to the muds of March)
Elements: Space/Ether & Air
Winter, depending on where you live, often includes snow. A walk in nature brings to it a sense of quietude & stillness. Look to nature in winter; what are the animals, plants, birds doing? They are turning inward; living at a slower pace, with more pause. For beings it can be a time to draw away from the external pressure of life; from the constant feeling that something needs to be accomplished at all times. Instead, slow down and pause. Take a wake and look around. Let go of the noise and rest. Put down the list of do’s and grab a blanket to cuddle with on the couch. It’s okay to put aside and simply let go.
Qualities/Characteristics: light, dry, rough, mobile, irregular, cold, subtle. Queen of change: irregular digestion, unpredictable holidays, influence is cooling & drying, erractice winds. . Dry skin; oil massages, improve circulation, ground.
Vata regulates the nervous system, elimination and the flow of prana (energy), each functions best when the body is given a rhythm; meals & sleep. Stick to a routine, stop multitasking as irregular movements can aggravate the Vata Dosha which can leave us feeling scattered, frenetic, and increasingly anxious resulting in dryness, constipation and anxiety. WE need to ground.
Yoga & Vata: Your yoga practice should include: warmth, stability, circulation & inward quietude. Rest-Reflect-Restore
According to Ms. Russell; "In Early Winter focus on standing, balancing asanas, forward folds & restorative. In Late WInter the practice will focus on Sun Salutations, backbends, and twists. Your practice might be scaled back during the cold months. Practices are slow & gentle. Warm the body to balance out the coolness of winter."
Meditation during the Vata time is one of centering. Moving our attention inward; away from external pressures.
Pranayama Breathing takes our breath to Nadhi Shodhana or Alternate Nostril Breathing. Nadhi Shodhana clear & purify the channels of the body; and balances the three doshas.
The Law of Ayurveda: "Like increases like qualities & opposite qualities balance. To balance: reduce what is aggravating & add the opposite quality." (Russell)
What one should EAT:
Healthy fats. Ghee (clarified butter) is a cook’s best friend; especially during windy and cool Vata season. Consume as many healthy fats as possible. This can include: raw milk, olive oil, nuts (almonds, walnuts, cashews, hazelnuts), seeds (sunflower, pumpkin), avocado, and of course the golden elixir of life, ghee.
Warm, cooked and heavy foods. Stick to warm and easily digestible meals such as stews, soups, basmati or brown or wild rice, dahl, and cooked root vegetables.
Hot, nourishing beverages. Spiced teas such as ginger, licorice, and cinnamon are balancing for light and airy Vata. "Golden Milk" can help with stiff joints, strengthen your immunity and bring a sense of calm. (Turmeric, milk (substitute: coconut, soy, oat, or almond milk). Every morning I drink a warm glass of water with lemon in it. I feel as though, and have read, that this really helps with my digestion (I also do three rounds of standing Kapalbhati breathing).
Spices. These exotic Ayurvedic spices not only taste amazing, they are also energetically warming and grounding - and Vata-pacifying. Additionally, they help with digestion, which Vata may struggle with. Try: turmeric, cumin, coriander, ginger, anise, basil, cinnamon, cardamom, fennel, mustard seeds, nutmeg, black pepper, or saffron.
Broths. Sip on homemade vegetable broth, chicken broth, bone broth, as the weather cools. It is also a good idea to drink warm water throughout the day.
What one may want to AVOID:
Foods that may aggravate Vata stay away from raw, cold foods, dry foods, and bitter foods. .. Vegetables high in air & space. Keep internal fire (agni) kindled.. Eat warm, moist foods (stews, soups, root veggies)..Hot drinks..
Raw foods and salads. These are difficult to digest in Vata season, and will unbalance you during this time. Summer (Pitta season) is the best time to eat raw vegetables.
Bitter, astringent and pungent foods. Indulge instead in sweet, salty and sour tastes, which will balance Vata.
Leftovers, raw foods, canned foods, processed foods - these will aggravate Vata. Eating fresh, homemade, sattvic meals is best for Vata types.
Coffee and caffeinated tea. Especially for Vata-dominant types, these are too stimulating. Consume in moderation. Herbal teas or a coffee alternative are best.
Dry snack foods. This includes chips, popcorn, crackers, and dry, cold cereal. Your body's digestion may struggle with dry foods as they can be difficult to digest.
Life everyday:
I begin everyday with a glass of warm lemon water to cleanse my body.
Try to get 9 hours of sleep a night: bed by ten and up between 6-7 am.
Create a routine and be as consistent as you can.
Reduce your sensory stimulation in the evening by lowering the lights & turning off the tv & technology.
Exercise every day. Take a walk, ride your stationary bike, practice yoga, etc.
Resources:
https://www.toesox.com/blog/2015/10/05/ayurveda-diet-and-lifestyle-tips-for-fall-transitioning-into-vata-season/
https://yoursingoodhealth.me/2016/10/23/keeping-healthy-during-vata-season/
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