According to Ayurveda, health is s state of balance of the three vital energies (doshas): Vata (air/space), Pitta (fire/water), and Kapha (earth/water). They shape how we feel physically and mentally. By the way, ‘sama’ is the Sanskrit word for balance – now you know what sama:you stands for.
Our environment influences these energies and a different dosha runs the show, depending on the season.
- Vata is wearing the trousers in autumn and early winter (light, dry, cold, and mobile).
- Pitta is firing up in summer (hot, sharp, oily and intense).
- Kapha can cause havoc in late winter and spring (cold, heavy, sticky and damp).
All doshas play a vital role in the functioning of our body, but if any of them get out of whack for long enough, it causes discomfort and, over time, disease. That’s why it’s so important to adjust our routines in a way that maintains or creates balance, whatever life throws at us.
How do you feel right now?
As the leaves fall and the air gets crisp, some of us are embracing the cosy vibes, while others feel a bit all over the place. That’s totally normal! Vata is taking over – the energy of movement, dryness, and coolness. And when Vata gets too wild, we can feel scattered, anxious, or just “off.”
The good news is, we can keep Vata at bay by consuming opposite qualities.
Diet tips for autumn
🥣 Warm it up: Soups, stews, porridge—yes please. Skip the cold salads and icy drinks. Herbal teas and warm water are your new best friends.
🧈 Healthy fats: Ghee, olive oil, coconut oil = nourishment for your skin, joints, and nerves.
🥕 Root veggies: Think carrots, sweet potatoes, beetroot—earthy and grounding.
🌿 Spices: Cinnamon, ginger, cardamom, cumin—warming and digestion-friendly.
Lifestyle tips for autumn
🕰 Stick to a routine: Regular meals and sleep times help calm Vata’s unpredictable nature.
🧣 Layer up: Scarves, socks, and cosy jumpers are basically medicine.
🧘🏽♀️ Gentle movement: Go for yoga, stretching, or slow walks over intense workouts.
🛁 Oil massage (Abhyanga): Warm sesame oil + self-massage = bliss.
☕ Get cosy: Read, bake, knit, or just chill with a hot drink. Your body needs more rest now – honour that.
Seasonal favourites
- Masala chai: delicious, warming, gently energising. And the ritual of making it is half the joy!
- Spiced coconut porridge with stewed apples: my go-to breakfast.
- Sweet potato & lentil stew: seasonal veg, warming spices, and grounding goodness.
- Chakra balancing yoga by Akshaya Agnes: try it, you’ll feel amazing!
Let me know if you’ve tried any of these and please reach out if you’re interested in personalised Ayurvedic support. I’d love to hear from you!
Catch you soon,
Claudia
