We’re in the “dead of winter” now, which has the energetics of cold, heavy, and slow, and can cause stagnation in the body. To counteract these energetics we want warm, light and mobile, so try a few of these tips.
Upon waking, get moving with yoga or Tai Chi. A few rounds of Sun Salutation will warm you up and wake you up. Weather permitting, try a walk.
Cut down on, or avoid, heavy or gooey foods such as dairy and wheat.
We need warming foods now to combat the cold, so avoid raw foods. Instead, eat cooked foods, and try broth, soups, and stews.
Cut down on the heavy carbs (like cookies, cakes, etc.) and have lean protein and more fiber, such as veggies, fruit and whole grains.
Cook with warming herbs such as ginger, turmeric, black pepper, chili peppers, cinnamon, and cloves to help move stagnation and increase circulation.
Stay hydrated but don’t gulp. Sip on water throughout the day; and ideally, the water should be room temperature or warmer.
Wear layers of clothing to stay warm. If you suffer from low back pain or a kidney condition, keep this area warm with a wrap, such as a scarf, or you can purchase a Kidney Wrap online.
Happy New Year!
Resources:
https://www.joyfulbelly.com/Ayurveda/article/Ayurvedic-Diet-for-January/978?
New Mexico School of Yoga, "Ayurvedic Winter Wisdom", 2023
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