As we peel off the jumpers and scarves with the approaching Spring weather we might also find others layers of Winter accumulation within ourselves that we’re ready to peel off too.
According to Ayurveda, the traditional medicine system of India and sister science to Yoga, by Spring we have an excess of water and earth element in our body after the cold months of Winter.
This is called a Kapha imbalance and can lead to congestion, sinus sensitivity, increased weight and sometimes a mental or emotional fog that we need to clear.
So at this time of year we need to actively bring in the opposite of water and earth element to stay balanced — that means more lightness, heating and drying with our foods, activities and attitudes.
Enjoy these Tips for Spring Balancing with Ayurveda.
These tastes stimulate digestive heat, cut through mucus and open the channels of elimination so critical for purification.
- Pungent means spicy like onion, chilli, garlic and spices.
- Bitter can be found in many greens as well as turmeric and sprouts.
- Astringent foods are drying like lentils, most raw veggies and grapefruit.
Dairy builds mucus and is heavy, the exact qualities that we’re trying to avoid in Spring. So dodge the seasonal sinus and congestion bullet by reducing it. Dairy also slows digestion. Rice milk and almond milk are good substitutes as is chia pudding for yogurt.
Spring is about renewal and we can capitalise on this energy by setting some intentions - but it’s also about feeling lighter, playful and trying new things, so don’t be too strict with yourself.
Dress in bright, warming colours like reds, yellows, and oranges in the early spring, while the weather remains cool and wet. As the weather heats up, gradually shift toward cooling blues, greens, purples, and whites.
Bring more heat into your yoga practice with sun salutations, breath of fire (Kapalabhati), longer warrior holds and uplifting inversions like hand stands to activate your mental and physical energy. Add more twists to massage and purify the organs and stimulate the metabolism of accumulated Winter toxicity.
