Honoring Nature’s Rhythm: An Ayurvedic Approach to Autumn and Anxiety
Written by Emma Dasco
You innately know how to take care of yourself, and there is instinctive wisdom that already exists within you which guides internal and external transitions. Think about when you get a cold, you may instinctively turn to nourishing foods, warmth, and doing things that bring you ease. We can channel the same intuitive wisdom to bring harmony to the transition into Autumn. The seasonal transition into Autumn ushers in cooler, dryer weather, and the element of Air becomes more pronounced in our mind and bodies. We can turn to ancient Ayurvedic remedies to embrace an easeful transition into Autumn, and pacify your anxious energy. Leaning into the following tips, which you may instinctively be doing already, will help your mind, body, and spirit integrate into the season of Autumn.
Warm and Nourishing Foods: To counter the coolness of fall, favor soups, stews, and meals with grounding root vegetables.
Decluttering: Autumn is a season of change and letting go. Much like the trees shedding their leaves, embrace this natural rhythm by simplifying your living and work space. Meditation or mindfulness practices are great for mental decluttering.
Grounding: Grounding gives us an opportunity to connect with the healing vibrations of the Earth element. Consider going outside for a walk, getting morning sunlight, watching the sunset, and putting your feet on the Earth.
Hydrate: Vata is cool and dry, so incorporating a variety of warm nourishing teas, broths, and warm or room temperature water is vital in balancing the body.
Ritual: Establishing a regular daily practice and routine will help bring stability to ground the mind. This could be a practice of meditation, morning sunlight, slow breathing practices, or taking a few moments to relax.
Incorporating the principles of Ayurveda not only during a season change, but during an emotional shift as well, can assist in maintaining balance and harmony. Embrace the wisdom of Ayurveda and your intuition as you welcome a smooth transition into Autumn that is filled with a sense of vitality, balance, and well-being.
Photo by: Annie Spratt