October Wellness Tips
Photo by Christophe Dion on Unsplash
The air has a crisp, coolness and the highlight of the changing leaves is underway, we embrace Autumn.
Autumn symbolizes the ending of things. As we say goodbye to the vibrancy of Summer, we now prepare for the true cold that lies ahead.
This means it’s time to turn our attention inward. Bring out the cozy blankets, warm sweaters and fuzzy socks, October invites us to spend more time indoors, with loved ones.
It’s also important to turn inward emotionally as well. Autumn tends to bring an increase in anxiety, and overwhelm. Be kind to yourself and allow things to flow as they are, you don’t want to overstimulate yourself during this time as it might lead to weekend immunity and frailty.
Use this month to clear up any remaining imbalances from the Summer to ensure a strong and healthy winter season. As nature begins to turn inward, so should we, prepare you home and body for the Winter ahead as the cycle continues.
Continue reading to learn more specific tips for nourishing the body, mind and soul. Along with practical ways to build ojas, the Sanskrit term for immunity, strength and resilience.
In the Mind
Autumn can be a challenging time mentally and emotionally for a lot of people. As Nature around us is shutting down for the season, we begin to feel the impact in our bodies as well.
The leaves fall from the trees allowing the racing winds to stir up even more within us. This time of year increases the tendency to experience more anxiousness, overwhelm, loneliness, restlessness, and degeneration.
Be sure to spend quality one-on-one time with trusted friends and family, this will keep you connected and grounded in all areas of life.
Photo by Toa Heftiba on Unsplash
In the Body
Now that the heat of Summer has dissipated, we begin to notice the dry, colder breeze around us.
Because of this, you may notice your skin getting drier, weakened digestion & elimination or even struggle to fall asleep at night. These are common disturbances that occur during the Autumn season.
If you notice these things happening within you, that’s a sign that your body is seeking extra support during this season.
Follow the October Food Guide found below for ways to find balance through your food.
Also, remember to keep warm- this applies to your body, food, and self-care. When heading out of the house, make sure to walk with extra layers because the climate is very unpredictable at this time.
Your body naturally shifts in preparation for this, you may notice that your appetite is stronger during this time of year. That’s because your blood is being pulled from your limbs to your core to keep you vital organs warm.
All the extra blood circulating in the abdomen provides nourishment to the organs but also stokes the digestive fire causing you to crave larger, more nutritious meals. Honour this by choosing what’s seasonally appropriate, this will provide the body what it needs, just be sure not to overindulge it.
One key nutrient that they body is seeking is fats. Your body is craving more dense foods as this will create a healthy insulation to withstand the Winter and also build immunity.
Add extra oils to your meals and body, see below for more details.
Photo by Kelly Sikkema on Unsplash
Daily Routine
If there’s only one thing you take away from this blog it’s the importance of your routine this time of year. With the changing seasons and drastic change in temperature, the mind, body, and soul can easily be thrown out of balance.
Here are my 3 biggest recommendation of the month of October.
No. 1- Proper Meal
As we say in Ayurveda, “how you eat is more important than what you eat.” And this is even more crucial during the Autumn and Winter months as digestion can waiver. Keep your meals warm, cooked and at a consistent time, this will keep the Vata dosa happy and in check. Planning ahead can be game-changer!
No. 2- Quality Sleep
Growing up when asked, what’s your favourite activity, mine was always sleep and that hasn’t changed yet. Sleep is essential for optimal health, while you’re sleeping your brain is doing the deep cleaning that’s required for proper function. Be in bed by 10pm, and aim to get to bed and out of bed at the same time daily, even if you’re not sleeping.
Photo by Claudia Mañas on Unsplash
No. 3- Healthy Fats
First, I need to break the thought-pattern that fats are bad. Yes, in excess and when using the wrong kinds of fats it can have a negative impact on your health. However, in moderation and using the appropriate type of fat for your body, you can actually lose weight, reduce aches and pains, become more mentally and emotionally stable and age with grace.
Try a self-oil massage before your shower and add extra oils to your food this time of year to reduce unwanted cold and dryness. By doing both of these, you will provide deep moisture externally and internally.
Food is Medicine
What I find so amazing (and challenging) is that everything you do, from your food, movement, and self-care- or lack thereof- can have a huge impact on your overall health.
But remember, this also gives you the power to be in control. Use these dietary tips to help promote health and support your journey to holistic wellness.
Favour the sweet, salty and sour tastes
Meals should be warm, oily and heavy
Spice with moderation, should not make you sweat
Beneficial herbs: cinnamon, black pepper, turmeric, ginger, nutmeg (for sleep)
Cinnamon tea: 1/4 tsp of cinnamon powder + a squeeze of lemon + boiled water… sip this throughout the day to support healthy digestion and elimination, while also promoting proper circulation.
October Wellness Handbook
Download these PDFs to access a complete wellness handbook containing:
Food Guide
Movement practices
Self-care practices
Recipe of the Month
Pumpkin spice and everything nice!
Try this warm, nourishing pumpkin chai latte to keep you warm, grounded and at ease all month long!
Spicy Pumpkin Chai!