Ayurvedic Tips for Spring
by Neena McIlwaine
Spring is a time of renewal and growth, and in Ayurveda, it is an important season for balancing the body and mind.
According to Ayurveda, spring is a time of Kapha dosha, which is associated with earth and water elements. Kapha governs structure, stability, and lubrication in the body, and when it is in balance, it promotes strength, endurance, and immunity.
However, when Kapha is out of balance, it can lead to a variety of health issues, such as congestion, lethargy, and weight gain. That's why it's important to take a proactive approach to maintaining balance during the spring season.
Here are our top five tips to transition into Kapha season gracefully.
Prioritize restful sleep
Spring can be a busy and energizing time, but it's important to prioritize restful sleep to support overall health and wellbeing. Try to maintain a consistent sleep schedule, and incorporate relaxing practices like abhyanga or gentle yoga before bedtime to help promote restful sleep. Consider avoiding stimulating activities like scrolling through your phone or computer late at night, as these can interfere with sleep quality.
Embrace seasonal foods
As the weather warms up, it's important to incorporate seasonal foods into your diet. In the spring, try to focus on lighter, fresher, and more astringent foods like leafy greens, berries, sprouts, and raw honey. This can help to balance Kapha dosha and prevent any potential springtime sluggishness.
Incorporate invigorating scents
In the spring, it can be beneficial to incorporate invigorating scents into your daily routine. Try using essential oils like peppermint, eucalyptus, or citrus in a diffuser, or as a natural fragrance to uplift your mood and promote mental clarity.
Daily movement
Up the yoga! Just as too much movement can throw Vata off balance, lack of movement can create Kapha imbalance. Try incorporating daily movement into your routine, such as brisk walks or maybe now is the time to try that pilates or HIIT class. This can help to stimulate the body, improve circulation, and reduce any potential Kapha-related stagnation. Be sure to listen to your body and adjust the intensity of your exercise based on your own needs and abilities. Move that energy out on the mat!
Start your day with a warm drink
The weather can be unpredictable and changeable. One day feels light, dry, and cold, taking on more of the ether & air elements of Vata while the next day it’s wet, heavy, and cool from the influence of Kapha elements, earth and water. Starting your day with a warm drink like ginger tea or warm lemon water can help to stoke the digestive fire, promote detoxification, and balance the body's natural rhythms.
In Ayurveda, the transition to spring is typically marked by a detoxification process, which can help to clear out any accumulated toxins from the winter months. This may involve incorporating a gentle spring cleanse, such as a mono-diet of kitchari to help support the body's natural detoxification processes and prepare for the new season.
We recommend the support of an Ayurvedic professional to safely cleanse based on your unique body type. Book an appointment with an Ayurvedic Doctor, Practitioner, or Health Counselor to guide you through a cleanse.
Daily self abhyanga is a great practice to have in your routine. When someone else does it for you, it’s even better. Book an Abhyanga appointment with one of our expert Ayurvedic bodyworkers.
