Kapha Season
Tips, and trick to staying healthy in winter
Winter is a time to stay active in order to keep your body warm and energy moving. The qualities of winter are cold, damp, heavy, and slow. Some Vata provoking qualities such as dry, cold, and wind are present during winter. Therefore a Kapha pacifying regimen should be adopted. Both Kapha and Vata individuals would benefit from being extra diligent with their lifestyle during these months.
The good news is there is no need to wake up early in Kapha season-- around 7 am should be just fine. I love doing a self abhyanga, but it’s especially welcomed into my morning routine during the winter. Staying near family and friends, and having a support system during these dark days are crucial. Be cautious with the kidneys and bladder during the winter months, as these two organs are most affected by winter.
Beneficial yoga postures for this season are Fish, Locust, Boat, Bow, Lion, Camel pose, and shoulder and headstands (if it is in your practice). Furhter, any and most twisting poses are wonderful to practice. During this season, more than half your practice should be done standing, especially those who are Kapha or tend to have Kapha imbalances. Breath of fire and right nostril breathing are recommended if you already know this practice.
Try a warming winter tea made with ginger, cinnamon, and clove. Wear warm colored clothing, and always keep your head covered, warm, and dry.
A day or two of fasting is acceptable if your digestion is strong. Soups made from root vegetables along with ginger, cayenne, and garlic make for a great supper in the winter months. Millet and Buckwheat are wonderful starches for the winter. Add some lentils, adzuki, or mung beans, and you have a great base for a variety of steamed, baked, or sautéed vegetables. Stay away from dairy, and if you must have a piece of cheese, choose soft goat cheese or Feta and be sparing with the serving size. The following fruits and vegetables are considered in season on the east coast:
· Beetroot, carrot, celeriac, cabbage, Brussels sprouts, red cabbage, squash, endive, yam, turnip, parsnip, sweet potato, leek, potato, Jerusalem artichoke, chicory, chestnut, hazelnut, walnut, pear, apple, lemon, date, mandarin orange, grapefruit, and pomelo
And of course, always try to eat seasonally. Stay Happy and Healthy.
As always, with love and light,
Daria