Snap, crackle and pop…the sounds of Autumn?
As we venture out we may be hearing the twigs snap underneath our feet and the crackle of the leaves as they dance with the wind. We may have also noticed these sensations showing up in body and mind…
As we enter Autumn, or Vata season, Ayurveda tells us it's mobile (think wind), erratic (a sense of restlessness or rollercoaster of emotions and thoughts in the mind), cold and dry (which may show up in our skin, digestion or we may hear our joints being a bit more vocal in their pops and clicks).
For those for which Vata (the air and ether elements) dominates in their constitution these qualities may be showing up quite clearly, others may just notice a subtle shift or one that comes and goes. Either way there are some easy and nourishing things we can incorporate into our days to bring a sense of stability, suppleness and warmth into our minds, bodies and spirits
What are we Feeding our bodies?
T’is the season of warm, unctuous and earthy foods- soups, stews, roasted root vegetables-yum!
When preparing your roasted veggies ghee and olive and sesame oil are great options this time of year- and great oils for whatever you are making in the kitchen. Additionally, turmeric, cardamom, cinnamon, ginger, rosemary ,and thyme are great addition to whatever we are preparing.
Autumn is the perfect time of year to try out new soup recipes or revisit some of you favorite crock pot creations. One staple this time of year, not only because of its warming and nourishing qualities , but also because of its support for the immune system is bone broth. There are many recipes available, below is a basic one.
Bone Broth
Place turkey, chicken, bison, fish or beef bones (ideally from an organically fed and local animal) in a pot large and cover with ~2inches water. If time allows you may also roast bones, garlic and onion before placing in water.
Add 2-3 tbsp of apple cider vinegar and leave sit for one hour (in order to allow the minerals from the bones to become accessible).
Coarsely chop any of the following veggies - garlic, onions, ginger, turmeric, carrots, parsnips, turnips, beets, celery
Add root veggies to the pot and boil for 1 hour (or up to 12 hours in slow cooker)
About 1/2hr before the end of cook time add the softer veggies including celery and carrots. 15 minutes later add rosemary, thyme or any other herbs that are calling!
Strain into mason or other glass sealable jars to freeze or serve and enjoy (may add black pepper to taste)!
And if meat isn’t part of your diet no worries- just leave behind the bones add reishi mushroom or astragalus with your root vegetables and of course keep the garlic, ginger and turmeric root!
How are we feeding our bodies?
Ensuring that we eat regular meals and stoke our digestive fire (agni) is key this time of year. If Vata is out of balance it can be easy to forget or forego meals, ginger tea (perhaps with a bit of honey) first thing in the morning and in between meals is a great way to kindle our digestive fire so that it is ready to be nourished regularly.
How are we feeding our minds & bodies?
Vata season can lead to erratic qualities in the nerves and mind- what can we do to cultivate stability? Waking up early (but ensuring plenty of rest) can allow our minds to set a steady tone in a more naturally, still part of the day. Be mindful of the amount and quality of noise you are taking in- music, radio, podcasts, etc- and be sure to allow your mind some time to enjoy the sound of nothing, the sound of the wind or the leaves falling to the ground.
Breathwork is our direct connection to the nervous system… 3 part or dirga pranayama and belly breath are both wonderful practices this time of year.
Slow and mindful movement, walking, tai-chi, and yoga are wonderful ways to keep the body warm and strengthen the mind-body connection
Finally, on a practical note, keeping the body warm is key throughout the cooler days- layers are great and a scarf can just be added to the list of things to take with. you as you head out the door- keys, wallet, mask and scarf- check! While at home and particularly just before a warm shower. abhyanga or self massage on your skin or body with warm sesame oil, mahanarayan oil, or vata massage oil is wonderful to counter the dryness and cold affecting the skin, and joints (and mind) at this time of year.
Wishing you and yours a soothing and enjoyable Fall season!
These are a few ideas that we hope you find helpful. We’d love to hear what keeps you warm, soothed and stable during the Autumn months? Please share in the comments below!