What happens to my body in Winter? In winter months our ‘agni’ is very strong. According to Ayurveda the accumulation of un/partly digested food leave toxins ‘ama’ which is a result of poor digestive fire ‘agni’.
Over time the accumulation of ‘ama’ can accumulate and may result is poor health, fatigue and worse disease.
What is Ayurveda?
Ayurveda is a science of life (Ayur = life, Veda = science or knowledge).
It is based on a 5,000-year-old Vedic system originating in India. This science is designed to bring your body in balance and harmony so that it can heal itself.
IS there a Winter Ritual? Auyurvedic texts have laid out detailed Seasonal regimes “Ritucharya” (Ritu = Seasonal, Charya = Do’s & don’t s).
The following Winter Rituals can be followed from mid-Nov till mid-March.
(1) Did someone say massage?
Warm oil body massages (‘Abhyama’) improve blood circulations and help eliminate toxins from the body via skin. Massages also, improve stamina, flexibility and skin complexion. Go for massage oils that contain have ‘vata’ balancing properties look for the following ingredients: bhringraj, brahmi , gooseberry and liquorice.
As part of your winter ritual focus on massaging your scalp and forehead.
Note: It is not advisable to have massage especially in your first trimester of pregnancy. Consult with your doctor if you are pregnant.
(2) Food: During winter eat healthy fats such as nuts, seeds, etc and drink warm drinks. Try to consume foods that are sweet, salty and savoury.
To get you started try this sample 1-day meal plan:
- As soon as you wake-up: Detox herbal drink – lemon & ginger tea or carrot, ginger & ambla (Indian gooseberry) juice
- After half an hour: have a bowl of seasonal locally produced fruits
- Lunch: Bowl of khichadi
- Evening snack: Organic Veggie Soup
- Dinner: Organic Veggie Oats (daliya)
Note: It is NOT advisable to fast to detoxify during winter.
(3) Exercise: Did you know according to Ayurveda we are at our physically strongest during the winter? It’s therefore an excellent time to exercise, travel etc. It is also considered the best time to conceive!
Live and eat in harmony with the seasons and do try to incorporate this winter ritual into your daily routine.
* The information is this article is a lifestyle piece so, before changing your diet significantly do consult with your doctor or nutritionist.