AUTUMN SELF-CARE
9/18/20243 min read
Autumn is an important time from an Ayurvedic perspective, each seasonal transition brings about changes in nature. When we align to the natural cycles we can navigate the change of seasons with ease. And yes that will mean embracing the cold and darkness of winter when it arrives!
The best way to prepare for the inevitable shift from warmer to colder weather is to honour the changes. There are many ways to provide nourishment that we need during the autumn. One of which is abhyanga.
Abhyanga is a self massage using balancing oils. It is a soothing practice that will ground you and calm your nervous system. It is particularly beneficial for vata dosha which can easily get out of balance as we head in to autumn (vata season).
Sesame oil is ideal for autumn, sunflower oil is a neutral oil that can also be used at this time of year.
Allow enough time to practice abhyanga to give yourself enough time to leave the oil on your skin for 15 to 20 minutes. If you have less time this practice is still beneficial, some days I simply perform the oil massage, complete my oral hygiene routine before hopping in the shower.
I practice a full abyhanga session once or twice a week.
Get yourself set up with a designated towel or robe (this will get oily), ensure your environment is warm. Perhaps light a candle and play some soothing music. Next warm your oil (a copper pot or small pan works well, I use a Turkish coffee pot)
Abhyanga is performed using a set pattern which works with the 5 vayus (these are the more subtle elements of vata dosha).
Begin by applying the warm the oil to the front side of your pelvic area with slow movements, including your hips and then your bottom. Movements should be up and down apart from your joints where movements should be circular.
work down your left leg and foot with long strokes and circular movements on the joints. Repeat on your right leg and foot.
Next move the navel, starting at the centre and working outwards using a circular movement. Use sweeping movements up the right side and down the left side of the body. Use vertical strokes over the left chest area following by the right.
Using up and down strokes along the back, along the spine as far as your flexibility allows.
Next move from the left shoulder, down your arm and hand followed by the right shoulder, arm and hand.
Finish with your neck, face and head using light strokes over your face area. Oiling the scalp is very beneficial if you are washing your hair or are happy to leave the oil in until later in the day.
Finally cover yourself with an old towel or PJ's before relaxing for 15-20 minutes. Then take a warm bath or shower without using soap.
As we transition from the warmth of summer it is important to make some changes to our diet and lifestyle. As the temperature drops you should take care to not over expose your senses to the dry, airy and windy elements of Autumn. To counter the effects of autumn here are some ideas to incorporate into your routine:
Increase your intake of more grounding and heavy foods, add in more root vegetables, make warming soups and stews.
Protect your neck and ears during windy conditions when outside
Slow down, embrace the darker evenings with some calming activities (start a new crafting activity, read a book or do some journallng).
Massage the soles of your feet before bed (wear some old socks if using oil)
Ensure you are hydrated with warm water and herbal tea
Add some warming spices to your cooking (cinnamon, cumin, ginger, bay, anise, clove, tumeric, thyme, rosemary, nutmeg)
