The windier, cooler, and lighter season calls us to slow down, warm up, and nourish ourselves more deeply
Look at nature and see that each seasonal change brings distinct gradual yet steady shifts. Like it or not, this also applies to us!
The cooler, windier air, which signals a shift away from the warmth and activity of summer, is a transition that can bring both opportunities for transformation and challenges. So, it’s essential to slow down and ‘mind the gap’.
Nature calls us to notice the temperament of the Season.
Primarily made up of the Air Element, Wind is Autumn’s mood.
When we know how to manage this particular temperament, here are the characteristics that stand out: creativity, flexibility, and enthusiasm. When on the other hand we let ourselves be taken by ‘The Wind,’ unpleasantries such as insomnia, bloating, dizziness, lowered immunity, dryness such as crackling skin, or constipation manifest.
You see, Vata — one of three Doshas — is the ruler of Autumn. Dosha is the word used to describe the subtle energies that give shape and form to all there is, including our physical bodies and mental tendencies. The other two Doshas — Kapha and Pitta — are responsible for storing and transforming energy respectively. Vata’s role is to spread and move energy.
It’s during Autumn that this spreading and moving energy challenges your well-being, and if you let this wind get out of control, it will cause havoc to the mind and body. This is unless we heed the advice given when exiting London’s public transportation — “mind the gap”!
This often difficult transition from warm to cold is supported by routines that help you slow down and nourish yourself with warm and cosy everything.
Where to begin?
Here is a 2-part exercise ….
Pt 1 — Observe nature’s way of shifting from summer to winter and reflect on what about this new season ahead is similar to summer. Include here what you’ve been cultivating over the summer that is most worth keeping.
Pt 2 — Contemplate what is different. If a certain change in lifestyle is calling to you, take the time to strategize how you will implement this change.
I can anticipate your mind’s resistance to doing an exercise that requires considering the bigger picture. Especially around something as constant and ever-changing as the changes in seasons.
The nature of the mind is also like the wind. It wants to spread and move. It does not want to be caged in reflection! Yet, Ayurveda, like her sister Yoga, call us to cultivate consciousness.
This means that to embrace the beauty of a ‘Season’, even the most challenging ones, you are willing to steadily direct the wind of your attention.
For specific dietary tips, daily routines including how to prepare for sleep, and so much more to help you navigate seasonal changes, I point you in the direction of Excel In Balance — an easy-to-follow 14-minute-a-day program. Crafted to familiarize you with Ayurveda’s most foundational principles while allowing you to explore dozens of yummy ancient rituals to cultivate a sense of balance and harmony all year through. It’s a gem!
As the leaves fall and the air grows crisp, take a deep breath, embrace the change, and commit to ‘minding the gap’ this autumn.
It will be well worth it!
Thank you for reading!
Be Present
Be Joy
Be YOU
Christianne