Ayurvedic Tips for a Cosy Winter
During the chilly season, yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda, is here to help!
In the aftermath of the winter solstice, as the crisp winter air continues to envelop us in its cool embrace, it’s the perfect time to seek solace in the cosy corners of our studio, hearts and homes.
During the chilly season, yoga’s sister science, Ayurveda, is here to help nourish our bodies and minds. Ayurveda is an ancient holistic healing system from India that focuses on balancing the mind, body, and spirit through natural remedies, lifestyle practices, and personalised wellness rituals. And in this season of stillness, it can provide us with delicious philosophies and practices for keeping us snug as bugs in rugs.
Settle in with a warm one, yogis, as we explore our favourite Ayurvedic rituals for cosiness.
#1: Nourish from the inside out
Nourishing, grounding foods play an essential role in staying cosy during the cool months. Think hearty soups and slow-cooked stews infused with aromatic spices that help warm you from the inside out like turmeric, cumin, and cinnamon. These spices add flavour, boost immunity, and help keep you warm. You can find a few hearty recipes on our social media pages.
#2: Embrace the warmth of herbal teas
Sip on warming beverages like fresh ginger tea, turmeric lattes, or a steaming cup of spiced chai. These herbal elixirs will warm your body and ignite your inner fire (agni), enhancing digestion and circulation.
This is my favorite masala chai recipe from Govinda's.
#3: Self-care for the senses
Try the Ayurvedic art of Abhyanga - self-massage, by warming some cold-pressed sesame oil then massaging it over your body. Wait ten minutes then jump into a warm bath or shower to wash off the oil. This ancient practice helps to moisturise your skin and strengthen your immune system.
"When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need." – Ayurvedic proverb
#4: Practise yoga for warmth
When it comes to warming winter asanas you really can’t go wrong. Vinyasa or a gentle flow yoga is a beautiful practice for awakening the dormant energy within you and keeping you warm. Gentler, restorative, and yin-like practices will allow your body and mind to recharge and rejuvenate. Our studio is always heated to a comfortable temperature with plenty of props available to make sure you stay warm during your practice. If you feel the chill through the floor-boards, a good tip is to place a blanket over your mat, wide enough so your arms rest on the blanket (not the cold floor).
#5: Enjoy the magic of meditation
Meditation is a magic ritual for calming a restless mind and allowing you to tap into the tranquil essence of winter. Set aside a few moments each day to sit in stillness, be present with nature, and watch the gentle ebb and flow of your beautiful breath.
We are not separate to nature, we are a part of nature. Fall in sync with the cycle of nature and slow down during winter. Gift yourself time this winter to care of yourself, inside and out. Your health will take you a lot further than an expensive pair of shoes...
Much love,
~Caroline