If you've been following me for awhile you know that I often write about the seasons and about Ayurveda (traditional Indian medicine and the sister science of yoga). Seasonal cycles are incredibly important to Ayurveda. Learning more about these seasonal rhythms and corresponding characteristics has helped me find so much more balance in times of change (both in life and in the seasons)!
Here in Detroit we are slowly entering spring. There are warm days and then cold (and then rain then sleet then sunshine!). There's plenty of dampness- of rain, mud; and a kind of chilly, damp humidity in the air. However, there is also this palpable excitement as first the snowdrops, then the crocuses, then the daffodils start to bloom. We're starting to emerge from our hibernation, ready for fresh air, for change, for socializing. These are all characteristics of kapha, one of the 3 constitutions or doshas in Ayurveda. Kapha is made of the earth and water elements. These 3 doshas are present within us in varying ratios and in the seasons. Late winter and spring are the kapha-dominant time of year.
So what does this mean? It means it's a great time to get moving, to start new projects and renew our dedication to ongoing endeavors. We are strong and capable; we got this! It's about reaching out and strengthening our relationships. Kapha has the strong foundation for resilience and growth. Kapha is support and loyalty in relationships. Kapha is all about growth, support, and stability. However, we want to really kick start and get moving so that the stability of kapha doesn't turn into an imbalance- feeling stuck and stagnant, lack of motivation and procrastination. I know we've all been there. There are those stacks of paper on the desk, the ignored emails, the looming deadlines, and we hide under covers. It's so cozy under the covers! I know, I know! But Ayurveda also reminds us that opposites balance. So we need to bring in the fire and the wind (in our movement routines, in our food, in our relationships, in our passion!) to keep the heaviness of kapha from getting too strong. Some of that heaviness is great and keeps us grounded if there's too much wind and ether element (hello vata, fall and early winter). We just don't need an overabundance of it.
3 Quick Tips to Balance Kapha:
Have a daily routine (dinacharya in Ayurveda) and stick to it! Simple is good and can help your routine succeed. Drink enough water. Brush your teeth. Eat meals at regular times. Read more here.
As part of your daily routine get up early! Before the sun rises (and ideally before 6 am, IKIK) and include some active movement in your early mornings.
Include small things in your day to bring you joyful energy! Have a dance break with your favorite song. Drink some zingy ginger tea. Run around outside with a pet or child. Watch a funny show or movie.