In the northern hemisphere, Pitta-heat usually gives way to Vata’s windy, dry, mobile imbalances. Because Vata tends to be unstable it needs Virgo’s attention and processing of daily habits. Practicing Karna Pidasana, Halasana and Sarvangasana assist in grounding Vata’s quick, light system. And Vata imbalances, like Virgo’s, are often revealed via the digestive system, both energies are well served by short, seasonal cleanses.
From the Daily Breath “Happy New Year“
Because fall guidelines primarily deal with balancing the dry, cool, rough qualities in Vata Dosha, which like Libra, is an air energy, the body needs to waken earlier. While it’s still peaceful Practice at least 12 Sun Salutations, (building up to as many as your age.) Other Vata pacifying poses are: Cow, Camel, Cat, and Cobra, in other words, chest openers. Cool down with Lotus, or Malasana, then ten minutes for Savasana.
From the Daily Breath “Equinox Ritual“
In Ayurveda medicine routine plays a highly important, healing role for all the doshas. Simple morning regimes follow the flow of energy in the body and in the environment, Basics practices such as: wake before sunrise, excrete waste, cleanse teeth, and scrape tongue, drink a glass of warm water to cleanse kidneys and large intestine, self massage with oils, then bathe. Do simple Pranayama/breathing exercises, a short Practice, and meditation, followed by breakfast. High & holy out of simple and practical, which is also a Virgo mantra.
From the Daily Breath “Sacred & Profane“
Just as Libra seeks a graceful center ground, so too does Vata in pacifying its imbalances. Avoid extremes during fall weather-changes, especially loud noise/music, driving too fast, getting really cold, or too hot, don’t overdo your Practice, don’t fast…in other words, be calm, and comfort aware, Venus qualities.
From the Daily Breath “Harvest Moon“
Vata, like Libra, can drift into many directions easily. Not only is fall Vata’s time of greater imbalance, but as we age, we all become more Vata, suffering from forgetfulness that grows from being distracted. A few basic Vata-balancing practices are keeping the skin moist with sesame oil, eating warm, moist foods, adding more grains, and choosing sweeter fruits, (bananas, apples, mangos).
From the Daily Breath “We are the Mystery“
The restless, cool, volatile energy of Vata Dosha increases. Pay attention to drier skin, fatigue, even a rise in stress. To counteract this, be more regular in eating and sleeping schedules. Balance out the cold with warmer foods that ground the body.
From the Daily Breath “All Saints Celebrate“
In the northern hemisphere, energy is shifting from light, airy Vata toward watery, muddy Kapha energies. Our bodies need more heat through warm foods, and a stronger, more physical practice. Eat less kapha-increasing foods such as: cheeses, yogurt, ice cream, and/or cold drinks. Eat more like a Lion!
From the Daily Breath “Crazy Makes the Community“
Following nature is the Ayurvedic mantra for good health. This establishes balance and regulates internal clocks to the environment. Late fall, early winter is usually the move from Vata to Kapha imbalances, ushering in cooler bodies, inertia, with less energy. We are more prone to depression. Pay attention to what creates happiness and energy, like warm oil massage. These help prevent headaches, reduce excess Vata, improve sounder sleep, greater blood circulation, and slows balding, or hair graying.
From the Daily Breath “Shakti Dance“
As the cold increases, Vata and Kapha energies need greater attention. As with the shifts in spring, fall is a perfect time to do small cleanses. De-toxify to prepare the body for winter. Especially pay attention to drinking enough liquids. We tend not to feel as thirsty, but the body needs moisture as much now as in summer.
From the Daily Breath “Samantha’s Web“
Like Yoga, the mind-body care of India’s ancient healing system includes spiritual philosophy, not necessarily religious, that brings practical applications to every day habits. Heading into colder weather, avoid stagnation. Practice a more energetic Yoga routine, stimulate desire with new poses. Let go old precepts and fears.
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