Rest, Root & Rejuvenate
Embracing November with Ayurveda: , Rest, Root & Rejuvenate
November's crisp air and the golden hues of falling leaves remind us of the shift in nature and within ourselves. As per Ayurveda, this month signifies a time for nourishing foods, grounding practices, and rejuvenating therapies. It's all about understanding our body's natural rhythms and adapting to the season's demands.
Combating Dryness: The Essence of November
Cold weather induces vasoconstriction - a narrowing of the blood vessels, leading to loss of fluids. This physiological response results in dryness. Hence, as the temperatures drop, Ayurveda emphasizes combatting this dryness to maintain the body's balance.
Soluble fibers, found abundantly in foods like chia seeds, flax seeds, steel-cut oats, yams, and turnips, fortify our bodies and mucous membranes, aiding in combating dryness. These fibers not only support digestion by lubricating the gut wall but also ease constipation and bolster immunity. The result? A body well-equipped to face the challenges of the season.
November's Feast: Foods to Relish
One of the benefits of cold weather is its ability to stoke our digestive fire. This heightened 'Agni' or digestive power allows us to indulge in sweet, sour, and salty foods. Traditional holiday dishes, often rich and hearty, come just at the right time when our bodies have the power to digest them. Think soups, stews, casseroles, and porridge - everything with a warm mineral-rich liquid base.
Garlic, one of Ayurveda's three Amrit herbs, is particularly emphasized during this season. Roasted or integrated into ghee, this herb offers digestive support, removes toxicity, and rejuvenates the skin. Note to our Pitta friends, use Garlic with more caution due to its rajasic (stimulating) and heating nature. Check out Farmtrue’s fabulous Garlic Ghee @Farmtrue
Chai Spices: The Flavor of the Season
No November is complete without the warming embrace of chai spices. Incorporate cardamom, cloves, anise, caraway, cumin, cinnamon, saffron, ginger, and turmeric into your culinary adventures this month. From spicing up your butternut squash soup to brewing a comforting cup of chai spiced tea, these spices not only warm the body but also kindle the soul.
Ayurvedic Insights for Doshas
Vata: For those predominantly Vata, this is a time to double down on self-care. External oleation, early nights, and nourishing foods should be the mantra. The resources Vata individuals command during spring and summer tend to diminish now, hence grounding practices are vital.
Kapha: Blessed with abundant natural resources, Kaphas can navigate November with relative ease. However, caution against overindulgence in heavy foods is crucial. Proper nourishment without excess ensures Kaphas transitions smoothly into the challenging spring months.
Pitta: Those with a dominant Pitta dosha are poised to relish November's feast provided they've undergone their autumn cleanse. With their inherent robust digestive power, Pittas can feast joyously but should be wary of overcommitting their time.
Rejuvenation with Ayurvedic Rasayanas
To further strengthen the body for the impending winter, Ayurveda recommends rejuvenating preparations known as Rasayanas. Chyawanprash, a lung tonic with its base in Amalaki (Indian gooseberry), is rich in natural Vitamin C. It supports immunity, aids digestion, calms the nervous system, and slows aging.
Another rasayana, Shilajit, is a warming mineral pitch that combats weakness and rejuvenates. However, it's crucial to source authentic Shilajit and consult a physician before including it in one's routine.
Oil: The Elixir of Love and Care
Perhaps the most profound of Ayurvedic teachings is the emphasis on oiling. "Oil is to the body what love is to the soul," Ayurveda says. Practices like Abhyanga (self-massage) and Pada Abhyanga (foot massage) using therapeutic oils like sesame, coconut, and apricot kernel oil can transform one's well-being. A nightly foot massage with castor oil infused with frankincense and lavender can ground Vata and enhance sleep quality.
In Sanskrit, the word 'Sneha' means both love and oil. November is a reminder to infuse our lives with both. The season demands self-care, and Ayurveda provides the compass.
Be sure to contact your doctor before changing anything about your diet, lifestyle, or exercise routine
