As the southern hemisphere transitions from the heat of summer to the coolness of autumn, it's essential to adjust our routines to maintain balance according to Ayurvedic principles.This relates to the macrocosm microcosm theory, where we are a representation of our universe, and our universe is a representation of us.
Summer is more of a Pitta season, with heat being present (the fire element), and as summer ends and moves towards Autumn, it becomes more of a Vata Season with wind, dryness and cooler weather. This can however depend on where it is you live.
Cold dry and windy all represent Vata, which can increase anxiety, overthinking, worry, aches and pains and dryness. If your Autumn is cold and wet, then it can have more Kapha qualities. These suggestions are more associated with balancing Vata dosha.
To ensure your body, skin, mind and spirit remain in balance throughout these changes, here are some helpful tips this autumn season.
Skincare
Add a facial oil to your routine! A few drops of your preferred OmVeda facial oil can be applied under your daily moisturiser for additional nourishment, and in the evenings, either massage your facial oil into your skin and massage the face, neck and décolletage to increase the circulation, nourish and allow your skin to repair and rejuvenate overnight.
If your skin is naturally dry all year round, the OmVeda Overnight Radiance Balm is another great option. It is fragrance free, and deeply nourishing for the face, hands and any other areas prone to dryness.
Haircare
Try traditional Ayurvedic Hair care principals!
In dryer seasons, or if you are prone to dandruff or hair thinning due to stress, rather than using conditioner, move to a hair oil.
Our hair oils are formulated to improve the quality of the scalp, nourish and protect the hair shaft, and are infused herbal decoctions with some being beneficial for calming the mind.
They are best gently warmed and massaged into the scalp and then can be combed through to the ends of the Hair with our Neem wood comb. Leave the oil on for a minimum of 20 minutes, or even overnight, and shampoo with either Amla or Green Apple shampoo. No need to condition.
Body care
To balance the nervous system and prevent the skin drying out, practice the art of self-massage (abhyanga). Massage warmed OmVeda Massage oil into the body prior to showering. While showering, use body cleansers sparingly, and once finished, gently pat the skin dry.
Diet
Drink warm fluids rather than cold drinks. Herbal teas are ideal.
Reduce cold foods and instead have warm meals based on fresh seasonal produce. Ensure you follow a great daily routine and eat 3 meals a day at the same time daily. If your dosha is prone to cold, such as Vata or Kapha, warming herbs and spices can be added to bring your being into balance.
In colder weather, I am partial to some ground Cinnamon and a few Fennel seeds in my morning Black Coffee. Both have warming qualities and also work to support the digestion.
Lifestyle
As the activity of Summer ceases, Autumn begins the time to look more inward. Vigorous exercise will temporarily increase heat, and you may lose moisture through sweating, as well as movement increasing Vata. Instead find time for gentle movement such as a Slow Flow yoga class or Tai Chi.