Keeping Up with Kapha Season
In Ayurveda, everything is rooted in the three life forces and energies, known as Doshas: Kapha, Pitta, and Vata. Everyone has a dominant dosha that helps shape their physical, mental and spiritual state, and no matter which house you fall under, we’re all affected by seasonal unbalance.
Right now we’re in the last stretches of Kapha season, which begins at the back end of winter, and lasts until the true summer months arrive. With the spring season arriving, and the winter months behind us at last, we’ve compiled some Ayurvedic tips to help make your seasonal transition a breeze:
Rise With The Sun
It’s vital to get plenty of rest while you’re adjusting to the seasonal change, but not all sleep is good sleep. The sunrise arrives earlier each day as we approach summer, so be sure to take advantage of the natural light to wake in alignment with your circadian rhythms. Greet the day by doing some sun salutations outside or in front of a window.
Jump Start Your Morning
Begin each day with a glass of hot water with lemon juice to get your digestive system moving. Lemon contains antibacterial and immune-boosting properties that promote healing, clear your skin, and balance PH levels, and is even thought to aid in weight loss!
Adjust Your Diet
It’s easy to opt for heavy, fat-filled foods as a form of winter-comfort, but with the arrival of warm weather comes a new opportunity for healthy eating. Swap dairy, fatty meats, oily foods, and anything iced for lighter options like fresh cooked vegetables and light grains such as quinoa and barley. Incorporate spicy, bitter, and acidic flavors into your cooking to aid in detoxification and clear out any allergy-related mucus.
Sweat It Out
Shed the veil of winter with an outdoor jog, or vigorous yoga session. Putting your body into motion will help stimulate its systems and eliminate any sluggishness from all those months spent cozied up inside. Try an outdoor power-yoga class for an experience that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and full of energy.
Cleanse Your System
There are plenty of ways to partake in a dietary cleanse without starving yourself for days on end. Rather than shelling out hundreds of dollars on a trendy juice service, we recommend spending a 5-10 days eating fresh fruits and vegetables, with the occasional addition of a non-wheat based grain. While cleansing, make sure to drink plenty of green, chamomile, and/or ginger tea to aid in detoxification and help you to feel full.