 By Danielle Schwartz With the descent of winter, Ayurveda, the ancient Indian holistic healing system, prescribes a cache of wisdom to synchronize our internal landscape with the external environment. As the chill sets in, here’s a compilation of the top six Ayurvedic tips to maintain a robust health in the colder months. 1. Nourish with Warm, Cooked Foods In the Ayurvedic perspective, winter aggravates Vata (air and space elements) which brings cold and dry qualities. To counterbalance, opt for warm, cooked, slightly oily, and grounding foods. Hearty soups, whole grains, root vegetables, and stews are favorable. Spices like ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and black pepper not just add flavor but impart warmth and aid digestion. Increasing intake of ghee (clarified cow butter) nourishes and lubricates the body, providing warmth and strength. 2. Sip on Warm Beverages Drinking warm water throughout the day or herbal teas such as tulsi, ginger, or licorice can promote hydration and heat from within. Warm drinks stoke the digestive fire, known as Agni in Ayurveda, which is essential for efficient digestion and metabolism. 3. Embrace Sesame Oil The practice of Abhyanga, or self-massage with sesame oil, is exceptionally beneficial in the winter. With its warming properties, sesame oil helps in pacifying Vata, improving circulation, and nourishing the skin which tends to become dry and rough during this season.  4. Practice Regular Movement
Physical activity is crucial to keep the body’s warmth and circulation in check. Emphasizing yoga and breathing exercises (pranayama) can be especially harmonious as they center the mind, regulate energy, and maintain inner warmth. Try practicing Surya Namaskar (Sun Salutations) to absorb the vital energy of the sun and invigorate the body. You can begin with one of our short how-to videos below. Half Sun Salutations Seated Sun Salutations Sun Salutations with a Chair 5. Regulate Sleep Patterns Winter’s longer nights invite more rest. Ayurveda suggests going to bed early and rising with the sun. This complies with the natural rhythm and encourages a restorative sleep which is essential for the body to repair and maintain health. 6. Mindful Meditation and Relaxation Winter is a time for introspection and conserving energy. Engaging in meditation and deep relaxation practices helps to destress and align with the serenity of the season. It fortifies mental resilience and fosters a sense of inner peace which is reflective of the dormant nature of the winter landscape. Integrating these Ayurvedic insights can offer a sturdy foundation for health during winter. It’s not just about specific actions, but about cultivating a rhythm that resonates with the season’s essence. Embrace these timeless Ayurvedic rituals to harmonize with the cold months, and witness a transition that isn't just about surviving the winter, but thriving in its midst.
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