the transition of season
For me, Labor Day weekend marks the transition from summer into fall. Even though it is not the official day that begins on the fall equinox, there is a subtle shift during this time of year. In Ayurveda, we honor these times of transition known as the period of Ritusandhi (Ritu = season Sandhi = junction). Rutusandi is a period when one should start preparing for the upcoming season changing diet and lifestyle habits. Our bodies become accustomed to the diet and lifestyle of the current season. Without the awareness of how each season affects the mind-body ecosystem transitioning to a new season can break down the immune system. It is during this period that we are more susceptible of illness.
Here are a few tips to navigate this transition of season:
Begin to transition from the foods of summer and incorporate seasonal foods. This will happen naturally, if you are eating seasonally, and seasonal eating will balance this transition into fall. Root vegetables, squashes, pumpkins, and apples will begin to become available. Enjoy them in warming soups or roasted. Instead of raw fruit for breakfast, have stewed apples or cooked fruit. Choose warm cooked foods over foods that are raw and salads.
Stick to a daily routine. As sunrise and sunset times shift, think about how your daily routine might need to change. Prioritize a time to move your body daily, as well as breath work and meditation practices to support your mind, body, and spiritual well-being. The days become shorter, and the nights are longer during this time of year. These practices will support good mental health.
Check in with yourself and notice whether your routine and daily practices are serving you. Do your habits uplift and nourish you? If not, how can you make changes to support your health and wellness as you transition into this new season? If your habits are not in sync with the season, you are in a cycle of degeneration rather than rejuvenation. If you want to make changes to your habits, check out The Essential Habits Course. You will gain the knowledge and support to make changes that last.
Consider doing a cleanse to detoxify, reset, and rest the digestive system. In Ayurveda, this is recommended twice a year during the Fall and Spring season when we move from hot to cold and cold to hot. It is an inexpensive and effective way. To give your mind and body a much-needed rest, strengthen the body's immunity, and rejuvenate the body from the summer. I will guide a Fall Digestive Reset from October 3rd to October 17th where you can experience an Ayurvedic cleanse. You can join the Fall Digestive Rest here