The dry, cold months in the northern hemisphere are characterized by increased vata (air+ether) and kapha (earth+water). Winter is particularly difficult for vata or kapha-dominant individuals; however, everyone is susceptible to vata related dis-ease during this time.
When we have excess vata, we may experience any of the following symptoms:
Ear pain
Dry skin conditions
Trouble with sleep
Decreased appetite
Nervous disorders
Symptoms due to an excess of kapha are:
Increased mucous
Congestion (sinus/throat/chest)
Fatigue
Lack of Motivation
Rapid weight gain
To subdue vata and kapha, we can adjust our diet, incorporate certain herbs, physical self-care, and particular ayurvedic treatments.
Firstly, your grandma was right when she said to dress warmly or else you'll get sick. While you may not necessarily come down with the common cold, you will expose yourself to absorbing an excess of the cold elements which will eventually lead to any of the above problems or other issues related to excess vata or kapha. It is especially important to cover your head, as this is where we lose the most body heat from. Also, avoid cold beverages in cold climates!
Foods that pacify the vata dosha are sour and/or salty in rasa (taste). Pungent rasas help to subdue kapha (though too much can cause vata aggravation!). Examples of sour are: most citrus fruits, fermented foods, vinegar; salty foods include: onions, garlic, asparagus, chives. Many herbs and spices are classified as pungent, for example: ginger, nutmeg, cloves, oregano, thyme, rosemary, cinnamon, cayenne pepper.
Other treatments to increase winter wellness can include swedhana panchakarma (detoxification by sweating) or abhyanga (oil massage). A certified practitioner can help you with choosing the right oil for you, if you decide to do self-massage at home.
Comments