Spring - time of kapha dosha
Are you embracing the spring season?
Spring through the lens of Ayurveda & Yoga
Nature is awakening from hibernation; the days are getting longer again – we all noticed that, right? Some of us may have more energy and the feeling of aliveness and hope.
On the other side, some of you may have noticed Spring also brings coughs, colds, allergies, weaker digestion and Spring fatigue. There may be a loss of appetite, congestion in the sinuses and heaviness and dullness in the mind.
In Ayurveda, Spring is considered as kapha dosha time. Kapha is one of the three doshas, or energetic humours and they constitute everything in the universe. When there is an excess of one dosha, it needs to be reduced to maintain balance and harmony.
Qualities of kapha dosha are heavy, stable, wet, slow, moist, and cold. Think of the elements of water and earth.
“Like attract likes, opposites bring balance.”
To reduce kapha, we move towards invigorating, enlivening, stimulating and heating actions, foods, and thoughts.
· Practices that are more vigorous and more dynamic.
· Foods that include heating spices as well as being lighter, more easily digested foods.
· Lifestyle adaptations include less sleep, more challenge, intentionality, breaking patterns to overcome personal limitations.
· Practicing letting go, and shedding attachments.
When kapha is in balance we feel stable, strong, loving and deeply nourished.
A few simple tips on how to stay balanced this season:
1. Diet - ahar
Start your morning with warm ginger water (a couple of thin slices will do) to support your digestion. Ginger is a sattvic spice and its qualities bring balance.
2. Lifestyle - vihar
Get up early! The kapha time begins at 6 AM which I totally get may be hard for many. However, if you do so, followed by some movement or yoga asana you are breaking up that heaviness and stagnation. This will make you more energised and productive! Give it a try and see how it feels.
Naps in the afternoon are not recommended in the long term they contribute towards tamas (quality of heaviness, darkness) and disturb your sleeping pattern. Swap it for a relaxation or Yoga Nidra. You can go to sleep early instead – ideally around or before 10 PM.
3. Kitchari reset
Kitchari is a healing Ayurvedic dish. It is easy to digest and creates an opportunity for the body to reset and rejuvenate. I recommend having it once a week (lunch and dinner) not just in the Springtime. For those who are familiar with this dish, treat yourself to a 3-day reset! Find a delicious recipe here from my teacher Myra from Hale Pule.
4. Yoga
Return to the practices that are more vigorous and dynamic; building up strength and resilience.
Pranayama – Kapalabhati breath – purifying breath work
Meditation – practising letting go, shedding attachments and inner purification. Reflect on Patanjali’s Yama and Niyama of Aparigraha (non-possessiveness, non-greed) and Soucha (purity, cleanliness) in all aspects of your life -home, body, energy, mind and soul.
5. Reconnect to Nature
Remember, we are nature and nature is part of us. Reconnect to your senses through walks at the beach, forest bathing, and care of your houseplants or garden.
6. Community
Nothing thrives in isolation. Reconnect with other human beings. Find a sense of community. In one way or another; we all like to be heard and expressed and have a sense of belonging. There is a beautiful quote that just popped into my head:
“We are all just walking each other home.” - Ram Dass
If you would like to establish an Ayurvedic lifestyle, find the right Yoga practices and meditation, understand the food as your medicine for your constitution or need a little help with your current state of health please refer to my 'Ayurveda' page to see what I have to offer.
Blessings,
Ivana Tara x