As the leaves on the trees change colour, and the nights start to draw in, we can feel a sense of transformation happening.

According to Ayurvedic principles, we need to be conscientious of our actions in order to adjust properly to the change in seasons.

Autumn is governed by Vata energy, which is said to be made up of the air and ether elements. With Vata energy, we can can feel ungrounded and our bodies and minds can become overwhelmed and out of balance. Although we can't change the seasons around us, we can make some changes in our lives, through yoga and food choices that help ground us and stay centred.

Yoga Postures

Grounding postures are therefore very beneficial during this change into Autumn, and to help balance out Vata energy it is important to go slow. This will bring more focus to the mind and body. Surya Namaskara (Sun Sequence) is great at this time of year as it can bring a warmth to the body while there is a chill in the air. Vrksasana (Tree Posture) and Prithvi Namaskara (Earth Sequence) are fantastic to feel grounded and connected to the earth. Throughout your practice, try to breathe slowly and mindfully. This not only focuses the mind and body but also calms the nervous system by activating the vagus nerve. 

Food

As the air gets cooler, we need to keep our bodies warm and our Agni (or digestive fire) ignited and balanced. So we recommend that you have plenty of warm soups, cut down on raw vegetables and enjoy plenty of warm healthy drinks.

An Ayurvedic drink that we love here at Dru is a Turmeric Latte. It is also known as Golden Milk. Our delicious tried and tested recipe can be found here so you can save it for a future time.

Lifestyle

Vata energy can contribute to an unfocused mind leaving us feeling overwhelmed, and causing stress and anxiety. Some simple lifestyle changes can help bring us back into balance;

• establish a regular routine
• schedule your yoga practice at the same time every day and for the same length of time
• eat three meals a day, preferably at the same time each day
• try to get at least 8hrs sleep each night, rising with the sun
• help centre and ground the mind with a regular meditation practice

Vata is cold, light, irregular, dry, and always changing. To balance Vata, make choices that bring warmth, stability, and consistency to your life.

Hannah Mackay