Ayurvedic Winter Tips for Well Being

Winter is the season of Vata - cold, dry and windy.  Vata is associated with the Ayurvedic element of AIR.  This element is fast, moving and mostly found in the nervous system and abdomen.  Vata energy is characterized by the qualities of quick, light, dry, cool and airy components.  Anything that adds to these qualities in the system will create an imbalance. 

A Vata imbalance can lead to conditions of nervous and anxious thoughts, headaches and insomnia.  This excess occurs when there has been much activity or travel, especially air travel.  An excess of winter dryness can lead to dry skin and hair, brittle nails, and incomplete digestion with resulting constipation and/or gas.  This dryness can also manifest as joint pain, backaches, and even osteoarthritis. 

The quality of wind represents movement.  Vata people are drawn to quick, fast movements and then they tire quickly.  There is little to no reserve in their systems as they tend to be lean, fine featured and tall.  When they are tired, anxiety and worry set in leading to thought and digestive disruptions.  They are drawn to being in high gear which can lead to "spinning out" or being an "air-head".  They learn something quickly and as quickly forget it...leading to worry and anxiety that they are "losing their mind".

Lifestyles changes that support calm thoughts include being in warm, hydrated air environments with quiet colors, soothing sounds, and less activity.  A regular schedule is beneficial - regular mealtimes, regular bedtime and regular rising time work best.  Exercise that is more meditative and slower paced work best for Vata.

Eating whole foods that are warm and moist are optimal for Vata health.  This might include soups and stews.  Cold, dry foods would best be avoided.

The addition of ginger and turmeric, anti-imflammatory herbs, help with joint issues.  The use of the Ayurvedic herb, ashwagandha, a heating herb, helps stablilze nervous energy during the day and enhances sleep at night. 

Body treatments would include warmed oil applications to soothe the dryness -abhyanga.  Seasame oil is the traditional oil for Vata as it is heavy and locks in moisture.  Traditionally, a gentle skin brushing toward the heart in the morning [garshana] would be followed by a liberal warmed seasame oil massage over the body and hair, The oil would be left on or followed by a warm shower.  This can be done at home. {this is a great treatment for Pitta people for its lymphatic and detoxifying benefits.}