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Disclaimer: This article provides general information and does not constitute medical advice. If you are experiencing symptoms of SAD, please consult a mental health professional for personalized guidance.
The transition into the fall season, from the changing leaves and the cozy sweater weather, can evoke feelings of joy and nostalgia. However, for many, the transition from the vibrant summer months to the darker, colder days can also bring about a sense of melancholy or even anxiety and depression. This seasonal shift, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), can significantly impact one’s mental and emotional well-being.
In Ayurvedic medicine, an ancient Indian system of holistic healing, the changing seasons are believed to influence the body’s balance of doshas, the three primary energies that govern our physical and mental health. These doshas are Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Understanding how these doshas are affected by the fall season can help us identify and address the root causes of anxiety and depression. Read on for additional insight and tips to help you stay in balance this season.
Vata and Fall
Vata is associated with air and ether, and it is characterized by qualities such as lightness, dryness, and movement. The fall season, with its cooler temperatures and increased wind, can exacerbate Vata. When Vata is imbalanced, it can manifest as anxiety, restlessness, and feelings of emptiness.
Managing Vata Imbalance:
- Diet: Incorporate grounding, nourishing foods that are rich in moisture and oil, such as cooked grains, legumes, and soups. Avoid cold, dry, and astringent foods like raw vegetables and excessive amounts of caffeine.
- Lifestyle: Practice calming activities like meditation, yoga, and gentle exercise. Create a warm and cozy environment at home, and avoid excessive exposure to cold and windy conditions.
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Pitta and Fall
Pitta is associated with fire and water, and it is characterized by qualities such as heat, intensity, and sharpness. While the fall season is generally considered Vata-predominant, Pitta can also be affected, especially in individuals with a Pitta-dominant constitution. When Pitta is imbalanced, it can lead to irritability, anger, and feelings of overwhelm.
Managing Pitta Imbalance:
- Diet: Opt for cooling and soothing foods, such as sweet, sour, and salty tastes. Avoid spicy, pungent, and sour foods that can aggravate Pitta.
- Lifestyle: Practice calming activities like deep breathing, meditation, and spending time in nature. Avoid excessive exposure to heat and sunlight.
Kapha and Fall
Kapha is associated with earth and water, and it is characterized by qualities such as heaviness, stability, and slowness. While Kapha may not be as significantly affected by the fall season as Vata and Pitta, individuals with a Kapha-dominant constitution may experience sluggishness, heaviness, and a tendency towards depression.
Managing Kapha Imbalance:
- Diet: Incorporate warming and stimulating foods, such as bitter, pungent, and salty tastes. Avoid heavy, oily, and sweet foods that can aggravate Kapha.
- Lifestyle: Engage in regular exercise to boost energy levels. Avoid excessive sleep and sedentary activities.
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Additional Ayurvedic Strategies
- Abhyanga: Daily self-massage with warm oil can help balance the doshas and promote relaxation.
- Panchakarma: A comprehensive Ayurvedic detoxification and rejuvenation therapy can be beneficial for addressing deep-seated imbalances. Please contact a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner for guidance.
- Herbs and Spices: Certain herbs and spices, such as ashwagandha, turmeric, and triphala, have specific properties that can help balance the doshas and support mental health.
By understanding the doshas and their connection to the fall season, we can take proactive steps to manage anxiety and depression. Incorporating Ayurvedic principles into our daily lives can help us cultivate a sense of balance and well-being, even during the most challenging times of the year. Here’s to a grounded fall season.
Steph R. Long is a Chopra-certified Ayurvedic health instructor, meditation instructor, and well-being coach. She’s also the founder of holistic wellness and coaching company SRL Well-Being and the former Deputy Director of Enterprise for Refinery29 Unbothered, where she oversaw health, wellness, and spirituality content.
MORE FROM STEPH R. LONG:
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How Ayurveda Can Help You Elevate Your Wellness Routine
Autumn Ayurveda: Balance Your Doshas for a Harmonious Fall
Creator’s Corner: How Stephanie Long Radiates Wellness Through Ayurvedic Principles
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