Understanding Vata and the Autumnal Shift
Ah, autumn. The season of pumpkin-spiced…. everything, Instagram-worthy foliage, and... Vata? Yes, while many are gearing up for sweater weather and feasts, those well-versed in Ayurveda are preparing for Vata season. If you're wondering, "What on Earth (or Air) is Vata?" don't worry – we've got you covered (and not just with a cozy blanket). Let’s dig into moving through Vata season with rituals, recipes and more.
Vata: The Airy Whirlwind of Doshas, First things first, Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with the elements of air, space, ether or “Akasha”. If Doshas were characters in a sitcom, Vata would be the unpredictable, whimsical one, breezing in and out of scenes causing a bit of chaos and a lot of laughter. It’s fun, it’s light, but boy, can it be overwhelming when left unchecked.
The Vata Vibes of Autumn - Ever noticed how fall can sometimes feel like Mother Nature’s mood swings? One day she's sun-kissed and serene, and the next, she's throwing a gusty tantrum. That's Vata in action. And for some, this Vata boost can turn them into a human leaf – dry, restless, and fluttering about. If you've ever had a day when your hair stands up in static rebellion, or your skin feels like it might audition for the next mummy movie, thank Vata. It's the Dosha's cheeky way of saying hello.
Balancing Vata: It's Not Just Hot Cocoa Time Sure, hot cocoa is an autumnal delight, but Vata season requires more than just chocolatey warmth. Here's how to keep Vata in check without dampening the autumn spirit:
Warm Foods & Beverages: While pumpkin-spiced everything is on trend, Ayurveda recommends foods that are a bit more grounding. Think warm soups, stews, and yes, teas (but maybe skip the iced version). Cold salads? Let's leaf them for summer!
Slow Pranayama:. Kick back and balance out with pranayama practices like Nadi Shodhana (sounds fancy, but it's just the Alternate Nostril breath), hum like a bee with Bhramari, or get all victorious with the Ujjayi (Yes, it's called the Victorious Breath). Inhale, exhale, and let the Vata calm flow through.
Warm Abhyanga: An Ayurvedic self-massage with warm oil? Yes, please! And while it might sound like a spa day indulgence, it's Vata's nemesis. Just be prepared for the slippery aftermath – a small price to pay for doschic harmony.
Cozy Environments: As tempting as it is to have a disco party with flashy lights, Vata season calls for some chill vibes. Dim those lights, light some candles, and curl up in a cozy reading nook.
While Vata might have its quirks (looking at you, static hair), with some conscious practices, it doesn’t have to wreak havoc on your fall. So, this season, when the leaves start to rustle and the winds pick up, remember to give a nod to Vata. With a bit of humor and understanding, you can waltz (or wobble) gracefully through the crispness of autumn, Vata-balanced and beaming all the way.
Rituals for Vata Season:
Warm Food and Beverages:
Ditch iced beverages and dry snacks.
Consume warm, well-cooked foods enriched with ghee or oil.
Drink warm or hot water and tea throughout the day to calm the mind and body.
Slow Pranayama:
Shift from fast breath-work to slower pranayama techniques.
Engage in slow, deep belly breaths: inhale for five counts, exhale for seven.
Implement Nadi Shodhana and Sama Vritti breath techniques.
Warm Abhyanga:
Perform Ayurvedic self-massage using warm sesame oil.
Use long strokes and circular motions around joints for at least 15 minutes.
Follow with a warm shower to rinse off.
Curate an Intentional Environment:
Create a cozy space with warm, dim lighting.
Limit blue light and stimulation, especially in the evenings.
Use candles and soothing scents.
Dedicate time for rest and nourishment.
Hydrate:
While consuming warm beverages, also ensure proper hydration throughout the day.
Warm and Moisturizing Baths:
Opt for warm baths infused with calming essential oils like lavender or chamomile.
Add Epsom salts or oatmeal for added moisturization.
Foods That Vibe with Vata:
Souper Meals: Trade those crisp salads for soul-soothing soups and stews that'll make Vata do a happy dance.
Fat-tastic Choices: From ghee-drenched popcorn to avo-toast, Vata loves a good healthy fat. Olive oil? More like ol' reliable!
Cereal Killer: Warm oatmeal or rice porridge, maybe with a pinch of cinnamon? Breakfast of Vata champions!
Soothing Sweets: Think naturally sweet fruits like dates, figs, and ripe bananas. Dates are possibly the most delicious treat on the planet and I like to tell kids they are cockroaches, because why not?
Herb Heroes for Harmonizing Vata:
Ashwagandha: The ancient chill pill. Helps calm the mind and strengthen the body.
Triphala: A trio of fruits that ensure your digestion doesn't go on a wild Vata roller coaster.
Cardamom & Cumin: Spice up your life (and your digestion) the Vata way!
Oils that Oil the Vata Gears:
Sesame Oil: Perfect for that Abhyanga massage. It's like a warm hug in a bottle.
Olive Oil: Drizzle it, cook with it, maybe even flirt with the idea of a hair mask. Vata's not judging.
Coconut Oil: From frying to DIY lip balms – Vata's tropical best friend.
Enjoy this easy and delicious recipe to balance vata today!
Rich Rice Porridge
Roasted Rice with Dates, Cinnamon and Cardamom
1 c Basmati Rice
Dash Black Pepper - freshly ground if possible
Generous pinch of ground cardamom more or less depending on your taste
Generous pinch of ground cinnamon - I go heavy on cinnamon :)
A fist full of pistachios (my favorite addition) you could use other nuts too
4 -5 dried dates, diced
1 tbsp Ghee
solid pinch of salt
3 cups of water
I add a tbs of maple syrup because I am a new englander :) but the dates are truly sweet enough by themselves.
I also love to add a splash of cream, or milk (any kind)
The way to make this marvelous is to place half your dates, ghee and rice in a saucepan on low or medium heat and sauté until it smells amazing! Ghee has a very high smoke point, but I am careful not to over cook the raw rice. Once the rice is slightly toasted and drenched in ghee, you can add your spices, remaining dates, and let that just merge for a few minutes. When its smelling too good to be real, add your water, bring to a boil and then cover and let simmer for about 20-30 minutes until the rice is soft. I like to make this ahead and reheat in a covered saucepan with a splash of milk when I am ready to eat. Enjoy a lovely, warm, vata balancing meal :)