Here in the Western Hemisphere we are in the period of late summer moving into the cooler season of autumn. In many parts of the country it’s still quite hot, but the waning light is noticeable. Some of the leaves and colors are changing around us into more muted and warm earth tones. This space can feel quite liminal. How do we support our bodies and minds with the wisdom of Ayurveda as the season shifts around us?
During times of transition it’s always important to lean more deeply into our foundational practices. Allow your body and mind to slow down as much as possible, pay attention to your nervous system. Be mindful of what you are consuming with your five senses, our body has to break down, filter, and digest everything we take in. Depending on how strong our agni (digestive fire) is, we will either turn all we consume into fuel, or āma (toxins & stagnation) will begin to accumulate causing inflammation and other imbalances in our systems. Our team of Ayurvedic practitioners can support you in finding balance in mind and body.
Allow yourself to find moments of rest throughout the day and be sure to get adequate sleep in the night. Do your best to fully discharge any intense energies from conflict or upheaval in your life through movement, journaling, talk therapy, and practicing self-compassion. Keep your neck covered if the air becomes chilly, windy, or you are spending extensive time indoors in air conditioned environments. Simple broths, herbal infusions, and ghee can add extra minerals and hydration to our bodies allowing for deeper nourishment.
If this transitional time stirs feelings of melancholy, overwhelm, or you are noticing imbalances in your physical body, don’t be afraid to reach out for support from friends, family, therapy, body-work, or even seeing an Ayurvedic practitioner. We are here at Santa Cruz Ayurveda to serve and support you, and we look forward to hearing from you!
8/31/22