Ayurveda the ancient science of medicine is based on the theory of the 3 doshas:

• Vata=Air
• Pitta=Fire
• Kapha=Water

These are the basis of the systems of the body, changes of the seasons, circadian rhythms of the day, and the different stages of our lifespan.

The Vata dosha is made up of the elements ether and air. The qualities of Vata are dry, light, cold, rough, subtle, and moving. The season of Vata is fall through winter.

To help maintain the balance of the Vata we should eat warm, moist, oily, heavy foods. If we were living in the natural world and growing our own food we would have stored oats, rice & wheat, onions, garlic, root veggies, potatoes, turnips, parsnips, cabbage, etc… these should be cooked with oil and ghee along with heating spices such as cumin, black pepper, coriander & ginger.

Maintain Health and balance

Health and balance can also be maintained by self warm sesame oil massages or better still a hot oil bath that is done in the evening filling the tub with water as hot as possible and adding a half cup of sesame oil~ soaking for 20-30 minutes while immersing the whole body, including the head. The hot water opens the pores and by immersion in the water, the oil is absorbed into the tissue. One must be very careful getting out, it will be very slippery. Having old rags to clean up is helpful. Using chickpea flour to rub on the body afterward to absorb the oil and exfoliate and clean the skin.

Since Vata is the most unstable of the doshas and we live in a very Vata Imbalanced world (cell phones, computers, airplane travel etc…) Pancha Karma ~ the 5 cleansing and detoxifications along with the Rasayana (rejuvenating) with oil massages, steam & herbal treatments, and Shirodhara can be done in any season at any time to promote health, mental/emotional well-being, and deep spiritual connection through mindfulness and yoga.