Get ready to embrace Autumn with this free Ayurveda Kitchen Workshop and guide.
Autumn is such a visually beautiful time of year and one which is full of abundance.
Free 30 minute Ayurveda Kitchen Workshop
All the ripe and plentiful fruits, nuts, grains and vegetables ready for harvesting. Now is the time to get into the kitchen and make something big or small. Could be a simple fruit compote, a jam or chutney, or a beautiful sauerkraut. In this video I talk you through an Ayurvedic viewpoint on Autumn in the Kitchen. I also give a great recipe for making your own sauerkraut to enjoy throughout the Autumn and Winter. As well as a recipe for a spice mix and pickle.
Which Doshas are affected in the Autumn?
Autumn according to Ayurveda is a season for the potential increase in Vata. These days practically speaking this is limited owing to the fact we live in insulated houses, ride in cars or on public transport and so are potentially less effected by the changes in nature. When we are outside though good clothing is key and if you are prone to an increase in Vata symptoms this time of year, there is plenty you can do to help yourself.
Vata is comprised of Air and Ether. These elements have the qualities of being dry, rough, cold, mobile, subtle and light. So in order to stay grounded we are looking to incorporate more warm, stable, denser, smoother, unctuous and heavier foods and activities. In terms of food this means warm, well cooked and seasoned foods containing nuts, grains and healthy fats. If you still like the taste of some fresh leaves or raw things you can still enjoy a few of these on the side. Just cover them in some olive oil, lemon juice and seasonings to help balance them out.
Fruits are magnificent this time of year especially apples and pears, enjoyed either raw or cooked. Finding locally grown ones are awesome as their skins support our own gut microbiome. Additionally, the pectin and fibre really help improve the motility in our intestines, balance blood sugar levels and can even help with cholesterol. There really is something in the saying ‘an apple a day keeps the doctor away’. Perhaps something should be added to the end like, ‘especially during the autumn and winter!’ Now is the time of year to enjoy the local market produce more than ever!
How to balance pacify Vata
To keep Vata in check and pacify it bring more warming healthy fats into your daily life both internally and externally. You can use cured sesame oil or a Vata Oil to help bring balance. Give yourself a soothing massage before bathing. You can warm the oil before applying it and then jump in a warm shower or bath and let it penetrate further. Giving yourself Abhyanga or self massage is a way of sharing self love. In the kitchen cooking with Ghee and or Olive Oil soothe the gut and nourish the body from inside out.
While the leaves are still on the trees it is a great time to get out into nature and breathe deeply. Observing both the changing colours of the leaves while deeply ingesting the life giving oxygen is true food for the soul! Happy Autumn.
