As the season shifts to the golden shades of fall, nature changes, and so do we. According to Ayurveda, an ancient system of holistic medicine, each season has a unique influence on our constitution, with fall being the season of Vata dosha. To navigate this season with balance and vitality, Ayurveda provides us with tips to adjust our routines, diet and movement practices.

Let’s first talk about Vata dosha. Those of us with Vata in our constitution will have a tendency to be a bit more unbalanced this time of year unless we embrace the season and adjust our routine.

Vata is composed of the elements air and ether (space). These elements are predominant in the fall/early winter season, leading to qualities like dryness, coldness, lightness, and variability in the environment and within ourselves. During Vata season, you might notice dry and cool weather, with fluctuating temperatures and increasing winds. These external factors mirror the internal qualities of Vata dosha in our bodies. Vata season can bring about feelings of restlessness, anxiety, and scattered thoughts. It's common to experience a desire for change and novelty during this time even though what will bring us balance is a steady routine.

Ways we can stay balanced this season:

1. Balanced Diet: Opt for warm, nourishing foods that are grounding and moisturizing. Include cooked grains, root vegetables, ghee, and warming spices like ginger and cinnamon in your diet. Think root vegetables, soups and stews. Minimize raw and cold foods.

2. Hydration: Combat dryness by drinking warm herbal teas and room temperature water throughout the day. Avoid excessive caffeine and sugary beverages. Sip on Love or Pitta Soothe tea to stay hydrated and warm.

3. Daily Routine: Establish a consistent daily routine to help stabilize your mind and body. Regularity in activities, sleep, and meals can be grounding and have a lasting positive afec. Fall has a back to school energy even once we are grown up, embrace creating a workout routine, AM/PM routine and weekly practices to help you feel your best. Start simple and add on from there so as not to overwhelm yourself if you are new to routines.

4. Self-Care Practices: Abhyanga, or self-massage, can soothe dry skin and calm the nervous system. Relax is your go-to massage oil for this time of year; this blend can be used on the face and body. Consider incorporating yoga and meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress; even a simple 10-15 minute yoga flow at home can have immense benefits on our minds and bodies. If you are new to meditation, try an app or guided meditation for 3-5 minutes a day to begin.

5. Protection from the Elements: Dress in layers to stay warm and shield yourself from the wind. Don't forget to keep your head, feet and chest covered.

6. Emotional Well-Being: Practice mindfulness and meditation to manage anxiety and restlessness. Engage in calming activities like reading, journaling, or spending time in nature. Avoid social media and news in the evening as it is too stimulating and often stress-inducing. Prioritize quality sleep by creating a night time ritual.

7. Aromatherapy Support: Use essential oils to support your health and wellness in the fall. Think grounding and calming oils such as frankincense, vetiver, cedarwood, sandalwood and palo santo;l these oils are present in our Berlin, Brooklyn, Sedona, Ritual, Serene, and Soothe blends.

As the leaves fall and the days grow shorter, Ayurveda offers us a holistic approach to staying healthy and harmonious during Vata season. By aligning your lifestyle, diet, and self-care practices with the principles of Ayurveda, you can embrace the beauty of fall while nurturing your well-being. Remember the Ayurveda principle, like increase like and opposites decrease each other. Here’s to a fall of routines, balance and stability!