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New Year, New You

Ayurvedic Practices for Seasonal Wellness

by Aasiya Rizvi (Ayurveda Practitioner) | Published January 1st

Ayurvedic Practices for Seasonal Wellness
As winter sets in, it is a wonderful opportunity to reflect, reset, and rejuvenate. Winter is a time of renewal—a season to restore balance in our lives. Well-being goes beyond physical health; it is about balancing the mind, body, and spirit. When we achieve this balance, we create harmony within ourselves, particularly in the colder months when our bodies need extra care and nourishment.

Understanding the Seasons and Doshas: Connecting with Nature’s Rhythms:
The changing seasons affect us deeply, and Ayurveda traditional medicine offers insights into how we can stay in balance with nature’s rhythms. Ayurveda teaches that the body is governed by three primary energies, or doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—which are influenced by nature’s elements. Vata (air and space) governs movement, Pitta (fire and water) controls digestion and metabolism, and Kapha (earth and water) supports stability and immunity. When these doshas are balanced, they promote health.

The Concept of Doshas and Ancient Wisdom:
The concept of doshas is not unique to Ayurveda. Many traditional medical systems worldwide, including ancient Greek, Roman, and European shared similar principles. The idea of bodily humours—phlegm, blood, yellow bile, and black bile—was prevalent in Western medicine for centuries. These humours were thought to influence both physical health and emotional states. In many ways, doshas in Ayurveda and humours in the West describe the balance of internal forces that influence health and well-being.
Modern Science and the Relevance of Doshas:
While scientific validation of doshas is ongoing and complex, recent advance-ments in genetics and personalised medicine are shedding light on their practical health benefits. Studies are exploring correlations between genetic markers and individual dosha types, suggesting that a person’s genetic makeup can influence optimal health practices, such as diet and lifestyle.

Adapting to Winter: Nurturing Your Body & Mind
In cold weather, the body loses moisture and warmth, leading to dryness, fatigue, and sluggish digestion. Ayurveda recommends warm, nourishing foods, proper hydration, and grounding practices to counteract these imbalances.

Nourishing Foods for Winter Wellness:
To support digestion and energy, incorporate easily digestible, warming foods like soups, stews, and root vegetables. Spices such as ginger, cinnamon, turmeric, and garam masala stimulate digestion and help maintain internal warmth. Avoid cold, raw foods and excess stimulants like caffeine, which can disrupt balance during the winter months.

Grounding Practices and Winter Health:
Winter’s cold and dry qualities can impact the Vata or ‘Air’ dosha, leading to imbalances in energy and digestion. Grounding practices such as gentle yoga, prayer, or breathwork help calm the mind and restore balance. Restorative yoga poses or mindful breathing techniques like Ujjayipranayama can help increase energy and warmth.

Hydration and Rest:
The dry winter air can lead to dehydration, so it is important to stay hydrated with warm water and herbal teas like ginger, turmeric, or chamomile. For better sleep, try sipping warm milk with honey, a comforting remedy that can promote relaxation. Ensure you are getting enough sleep to support energy levels and overall well-being, incorporating calming evening routines like stretching or sipping these soothing drinks before bed.
Ethical Living for Health and Renewal:
Holistic health goes beyond physical practices to include ethical living. Values like peacefulness, truthfulness, and cleanliness promote mindfulness, compassion, and balance. Reflect on these principles as part of your New Year’s resolutions to nurture both your physical and mental well-being.

A Mindful New Year:
As you set intentions for the year ahead, prioritise practices that nurture both body and spirit. Reflect on your blessings, em-brace gratitude, and focus on joy, kindness, and connection. Whether through prayer, quiet moments, or laughter, nurturing your spirit brings warmth and positivity into your life.
Winter Health
The New Year: A Fresh Start
The New Year is a beautiful chance to begin again, reconnecting with what truly matters. Health is more than just caring for the body—it’s about creating a life full of peace, balance, and harmony. Let this winter season be a gentle reminder, helping you nourish your body, mind, and spirit with warmth, grounding, and self-care. By staying mindful of your intentions, you’ll move into the year ahead with peace and joy, paving the way for a healthier, happier, and more fulfilling journey.
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Aasiya Rizvi (Vaidya) aasiya@post.com
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