A very warm welcome to this festive winter edition of my newsletter.
The transition into the darker months can feel challenging, but once the big coats, cosy blankets, glowing candles, and twinkling fairy lights appear, winter reveals itself to be every bit as magical as the other seasons.
The key, of course, is avoiding those unwelcome colds and flus. Here, you’ll find helpful tips and festive recipe ideas to keep you feeling your jolly best.
I also have a special offer on gift vouchers, exclusive to subscribers—just when you thought the perfect Christmas gift didn’t exist!
And if you know someone who would enjoy this newsletter, please do share it and spread the cheer.
Winter in Ayurveda
Winter, known as Hemant Ritu in Ayurveda, is regarded as the season of strength. During this time, our appetites grow and we naturally crave warmer, earthier, and more substantial foods. This is because our digestive fire (Agni) burns brightest in winter, and—with the right nourishment—it helps keep us warm and resilient against illness.
Yet the cold, dry atmosphere can also aggravate Vata (bringing dryness, restlessness, and stiffness) and increase Kapha(leading to heaviness, sluggishness, and congestion).
By making mindful adjustments, you can align with the season’s rhythm and channel its energy in a positive, life‑enhancing way.
Embrace the season of strength
By aligning your diet and lifestyle with Ayurvedic principles, you can transform the cold season into one of vitality, warmth, and rejuvenation. Please note: these tips are intended as general guidance to support balance. For a plan tailored to your unique needs, I recommend a personalised consultation—especially if you have existing health concerns.
Diet
🥘 Hearty meals: Lentil stews, spiced porridges, and rich grains like wheat and oats.
🧈 Fortifying fats: Ghee, sesame oil, nut butters — fuel for skin, joints, and energy.
🥬 Seasonal produce: Root veggies, dark greens, and citrus fruits for balance and immunity.
🌶️ Circulation spices: Cook with ginger, black pepper, cloves, mustard seeds to keep Kapha in check.
🎄 Festive indulgence, the Ayurvedic way: Enjoy holiday treats warm, spiced, and homemade (like baked apples with cinnamon) rather than cold or processed sweets.
Lifestyle
🚶 Move with vigor: Brisk walks, strength training, dynamic yoga.
💆 Oil massage: Warm sesame or mustard oil to counter dryness and increase circulation.
🍵 Immune support: Chyawanprash, Tulsi tea, and citrus for resilience.
🌅 Stay balanced: Rise early, avoid oversleeping, and enjoy cozy gatherings.
🕯️ Festive balance: Celebrate joyfully, but pace yourself — balance late nights and heavy meals with morning breathwork, light movement, and herbal teas.
Seasonal favourites
The spotlight this time is on simple home remedies to support your immune system and wellbeing over the coming months, sprinkled with a couple of festive treats.
Spice soup: A soothing remedy for coughs and colds, as well as digestive tract issues like bloating and constipation.
Baked porridge: Your winter breakfast just got an upgrade!
Lemon ginger elixir: More than a classic first-aid cold remedy, this delicious hot drink also works preventatively.
Festive Glow: A delightful, non-alcoholic alternative to mulled wine.
Cold feet? Treat yourself to a lovely foot bath with Epsom salt and mustard powder to boost circulation.
The perfect Christmas gift 🎁
Subscribe to my newsletter until 31st December 2025 to receive a £50 consultation voucher.
Thank you for all your support this year and for being part of the sama:you journey! Wishing you a joyful Christmas and a happy, healthy New Year!
Claudia
Curious to find out how I may be able to help you? Check out my FAQs, About me and ‘Can I help you?‘ section and reach out to arrange your free 15-minute introductory call.
