Ayurveda for health and wellness – a transition from Pitta to Vata
“Ayurveda teaches us that our bodies are microcosms of the larger universe, and by aligning with nature’s cycles, we can achieve optimal health and vitality.” – Unknown
All physical life is composed of the same elements. The heart of Ayurvedic science lies in the understanding that the elements in our foods nourish those in our bodies and minds. It originates from the ancient Vedic belief that we all stem from cosmic consciousness.
As we approach a seasonal transition from Pitta to Vata, it’s an excellent time to think about Ayurveda for autumn health and wellness.
At Yoga For Good, we are conscious of modern culture’s fixation on chasing health as if something is inherently wrong with us. However, we know that we aren’t born with disease or in need of constant wellness pursuits. Our natural state is wellness.
In the Vedic tradition, the beginning of physical phenomena began with unified consciousness. Vibrations led to the creation of space, then air, fire, water and finally, earth. Each bite of food connects us to this process, nurturing and shaping our life force, movement and internal well-being, making food an expression of our unity with nature.
Seasonal cycles
The Ayurvedic calendar charts six seasons that mirror the stages of Earth’s journey around the sun. They don’t simply mark time. They outline the rhythms of nature. In India, these rhythms are captured in the musical form called Raga. Each Raga represents a season, embodying its unique essence and influence over nature.
Just take a moment to listen to nature, and you’ll feel it—those harmonies and rhythms that make up the universe. Whether it’s the babbling of a stream, the gentle rustle of leaves in the wind or the cheerful chorus of birdsong, these sounds stir something deep within us. They fill our hearts and open our spirits to discovering our true nature.
Indigenous Australians also recognise six seasons, each determined by the behaviours of animals and the cycles of native vegetation. These cycles reflect spring, late spring, summer, early autumn, autumn and winter.
Autumn and the Vata season
As you watch the leaves transforming from green to vibrant shades of red, orange and yellow, it’s evident that autumn heralds a period of transition and change. The air becomes cooler, inviting outdoor activities like hiking, gardening and bonfires. It’s also typical to feel a sense of nostalgia and reflection, bidding farewell to summer memories and readying oneself for the approaching winter chill.
Infusing our meals with positive energy as we prepare and enjoy them, we can be mindful of affirmations tailored to the Vata season.
These reflections remind us of the cyclical nature of our biorhythms, guiding us through transitions and personal growth. In early autumn, our focus lies in harvesting and simplifying. Later in autumn, we gather and contain.
During seasonal shifts, our internal state mirrors nature’s changes, leaving us more vulnerable to its influences as our immunity weakens. Around the Autumn Equinox, it’s important to acknowledge and embrace these transitions. This is an opportunity to cleanse ourselves from any toxicity and consciously realign. Practices such as fasting, meditation and prayer help restore balance to mind, body and spirit.
The three doshas
The three doshas – Vata, Pitta and Kapha – coexist in varying degrees within all living organisms. Each of us has a predominant dosha type, which determines our metabolic functions and constitution.
When an imbalance occurs, it manifests through uncomfortable bodily discharges such as mucus, bile and wind.
These signs signal a need for alignment, and ignoring them can lead to illness. Although the causes of disease are diverse, irritation of the doshas undeniably impacts health.
The proportion of Vata, Pitta and Kapha within you defines your unique constitution, which is delineated into nine body types. Understanding your dosha type is pivotal for balancing health and adapting your lifestyle. To uncover your dosha type, take this quiz. However, consulting with an Ayurvedic clinic is highly recommended for confirmation and personalised advice.
Yoga, nutrition and self-care for autumn
Vata, Pitta, and Kapha tend to be vulnerable in early autumn. Understanding your dominant and secondary doshas can help guide your food choices during this transition period. To maintain balance and well-being, it’s advisable to steer clear of certain foods based on your dosha type. For example, Vata types should avoid astringent, bitter tastes and excess cold, dry foods. Pitta should avoid excess pungent, salty, oily and fatty foods, and Kapha should avoid excess sweet, salty, cold, oily and greasy foods.
Each dosha is amplified during its respective season. In autumn, Vata takes precedence, increasing the likelihood of imbalances in individuals with a Vata constitution.
Achieving balance in your dominant dosha will naturally align the secondary dosha. The below recommendations are for your dominant metabolic type. However, depending on your imbalances and seasonal needs, you may occasionally nourish doshas other than your own.
VATA:
- Steady routine for eating and sleeping
- Ease-inducing activities
- Ample rest
- Warm, nourishing foods
- Avoid bitter, cold foods
- Shield from cold, damp environments
- Embrace warmth and healthy rituals
PITTA:
- Rise early, sleep by 10 pm
- Plan activities to avoid stress
- Choose calming foods
- Avoid hot, spicy foods
- Shield from hot, humid environments
- Embrace serenity and calmness
KAPHA:
- Daily stimulating exercise
- Embrace new experiences
- Rise early
- Light, stimulating foods
- Avoid cold, oily foods
- Shield from cold, damp environments
- Lighten your heart
Connect with your true self through the transformative power of yoga
At Yoga For Good, nature is one of our core values, and we know you can find balance and harmony in the natural world this autumn.
Ayurveda is deeply rooted in ancient traditions of healing, healthful living and longevity, offering a holistic approach to wellbeing. Understanding the doshas can empower you to achieve and maintain optimal health.
According to Vedic seers, disease arises from living in ways that disregard natural laws and rhythms, neglecting innate wisdom, misusing the mind and senses, improper eating habits and ignoring inner rhythms and seasonal cycles. Let’s take our cues from nature for autumn health and wellness.
Connect with your true self on a regular basis by attending our free community classes.
For additional insights on nature, doshas and seasonal health and wellness, as well as numerous other valuable lessons derived from yoga, explore our Yoga for Good Foundation articles.
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