Seasonal Grounding
As the seasons change, the cool air drifts in, and new routines start back up, we notice how our energy also shifts. In the ancient Ayurveda tradition, Vata (air/ether) dominant energy is associated with Autumn. Vata, one of the three Doshas (life forces), is responsible for our mental and physical adaptability. Vata energizes and governs our nervous system. Vata energy is dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, and mobile. Out of balance, this energy can present as dry skin, irregular appetite, cold hands and feet, restlessness, and anxiousness among other things.
In order to keep this energy in balance, we can begin to utilize grounding practices that connect us to our bodies and the Earth throughout the season. Practices are behaviors or rituals we can intentionally bring into our daily/weekly living. Grounding allows one to balance energy, connect, and help one to feel safe + centered. Here are four Practice for Grounding this Fall.
1) Restorative Yoga: This style of asana practice focuses on deep rest, relaxation, and long held stretches supported by yoga props like bolsters, blankets and blocks. All the the postures are held at the floor, creating connection to the Earth beneath. Similar to Yin yoga, Restorative yoga slows the practitioner down by guiding them into the Divine Feminine Energy of surrender.
2) Oil Massage: Abhyanga is an Ayurvedic self care practice of massaging warm oil from the scalp to the toes. Using a specific blend of oils like our Ground Massage Blend, placing a drop of oil on the crown of the head, and massaging into the skin circular motions. The massage continues down the body, sweeping motions on longer bones like the arms and legs, circular motions over the joints, then finished with a warm shower or bath. This practice draws one into their body for grounding, and warms the body too.
3) Warm Foods + Beverages: You know that craving for soup, chilli, and stew when the temperature drops, it’s your body wisdom’s desire to eat with the season. Vata season can chill us, causing our inner energetic fire to diminish. If an effort to stoke the fire, follow the urge to consume warm, spiced soups, stews, root veggies, and baked fruits like apples. Hot tea with orange, cinnamon, or ginger help to warm the body physically and energetically.
4) Breathing Practices: Breath work, or Pranayama, is a tool to connect to the body, the Earth, and neutralize over active Vata energy. My favorite is Mother’s Breath, a practice used to slow and extend the breath for a fuller inhalation/exhalation. Start with a cleansing breath in through the nose, open the jaw, big exhale out. On your next inhale, breath in through the nose to a count of 1-7, hold for a count, then exhale for a full seven count. Repeat 6-8 times or more. Notice the energy in the body settling in, and the nervous system settle in.
Enjoy this season by allowing yourself to slow down, stay warm, and maintain your connection to self + Earth. Namaste!