As winter blankets the world in its chilly embrace, our bodies respond to the changing of the seasons naturally by shifting our energy patterns. Have you ever noticed that your mood and motivation in the winter months often feel quite different than during the warmer weather months? In Ayurveda, each of the four seasons (winter, spring, summer, fall) is associated with a corresponding “dosha type.” The three metabolic types or “doshas,” known as Vata, Pitta, and Kapha represent the fundamental energies that govern our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. As the seasons change in your external environment, the dosha type associated with that season will naturally increase in your internal environment ie. your dosha constitution. (If you’re new to this philosophy, check out our introduction to dosha types here!) Creating a proper balance among the three dosha types is essential for achieving holistic balance inside and out.
Kapha is associated with winter/spring due to their shared cold, damp, and heavy qualities. In order to address this excess of Kapha energy in winter and further to feel your very best, there are a series of practices you can adopt in your daily routine to strike balance. We call these “kapha-pacifying practices.” Incorporating the practices in this morning-to-night guide can help to increase blood flow and immune system functionality, provide greater mental clarity, an increase in energy, and an overall sense of balance and stability in your day-to-day life. Ready to elevate your winter wellbeing with Ayurveda? Let’s get started.
Morning
Waking Up
Kapha energy is associated with lethargy and stagnation, so if you notice that it’s harder to get out of bed in the morning this time of year, you’re not the only one! One way to improve your energy is to establish a consistent daily routine. This helps balance sluggish Kapha energy by promoting discipline and stability.
Skincare
Kapha’s cool, dense energy can lead to excessive oiliness and dullness of the skin and an increased potential for clogged pores and breakouts. Winter weather often leaves our skin feeling parched for hydration, so a skincare routine that incorporates exfoliation, detoxification, as well as hydration is key. RaniRitual™ combines four of our bestselling kapha-pacifying products to keep skin balanced and healthy all winter long.
Fuel Up
An excess of Kapha energy can slow our metabolism. In order to promote balanced digestion, enjoy a breakfast of light and relatively dry foods. Granola with pumpkin seeds and berries or a small portion of oatmeal with warming spices like cinnamon and cardamom are great options. Cooked foods typically provide a warming element that raw food such as fruit do not, and are easier to digest, so opt for a light warm breakfast this time of year.
Get Moving
Start the day with a physical activity that will stimulate blood flow and wake up the body. This could be a vinyasa yoga flow, going for a jog or hike, dancing around your kitchen, whatever gets you moving to avoid stagnation.
Afternoon
Stay Hydrated
Opt for a Copper Water Bottle to maximize your healing and hydration routine all winter long. Copper’s ability to reduce inflammation of the stomach lining supports healthy digestion, allowing it to be a natural remedy for bloating, indigestion, and infections. Additionally, copper-infused water has been noted to stimulate the secretion of digestive enzymes, facilitating the breakdown of food in the stomach and aiding in nutrient absorption.
Breathwork
Instead of reaching for another cup of coffee, try this breathwork practice! Bhastrika, or “bellows breath,” helps to energize the body, increase Prana (life force), and clarify the mind to keep you feeling balanced. It also helps to promote healthy digestion and boost your metabolism!
How To:
- Find a comfortable, seated position with your shoulders relaxed. Take a few regular deep breaths in and out of the nose to prepare.
- Inhale deeply into your nose, expanding your belly as you do so. Then, sharply exhale through your nose.
- Continue this pattern in 1-second increments, inhaling through the nose for one second, sharply exhaling through the nose for one second.
- Repeat 10-15 times
Evening
Fuel Up
Nothing beats winter weather like a warming bowl of soup. A light, lentil soup is great for balancing an excess of Kapha energy while keeping you fueled and alert through the afternoon. Try out this recipe!
Bedtime Ritual
To help wind down for the night, try a cup of "CCF" tea (cumin, coriander, and fennel) before bedtime or a glass of warm milk with half a teaspoon of turmeric and a bit of black pepper (turmeric powder is a powerful digestive healer and all-natural remedy for bloating, stomach discomfort, and other digestive issues.)
Time For Sleep
Aim to go to sleep at the same time each night, if possible. 6-7 hours of healthy sleep a night is the sweet-spot to pacify an excess of Kapha energy.
Embracing an Ayurvedic approach to your daily routine this time of year will allow you to navigate the winter season with balance and vitality. By incorporating warmth, movement, and a nourishing diet, you can transform the winter months into a time of rejuvenation and well-being.
