Ayurveda for Spring Balance and Seasonal Transition
Spring Awakening
Moving out of winter in Northeast Ohio and into spring, is quite volatile. The drastic up and down temperatures, the thawing and freezing, and the not-so-natural but equally disruptive time change can wreak havoc on us!
You may think that the seasons change from winter to spring on the Spring Equinox, around March 20th. But in this area of the world, we still often see frosts and snow through late March and early April.
Just recently I’ve noticed the light increasing, flowers have begun to push up, and the buds on most of my trees are growing.
Why Does Seasonal Change Matter?
Harmonizing with nature keeps us in physical and mental balance. Ayurveda, the sister science of yoga, and the oldest continuously practiced health system in the world, teaches us that if we don't follow the rules and laws of nature we will experience dis-ease in the body. Through the wisdom of this science, we learn that our awareness of what is changing in nature around us is a key indicator or "clue" as to when and what we can be doing to stay well and feel our best.
Subtle Disturbances Spring Can Bring
I'm sure you've noticed some subtle disturbances within your body and mind during this seasonal change, like ears popping, joints aching, or those pesky allergies starting.
Some of the most common symptoms I see with clients this time of year include:
Vertigo/Migraines
When there’s a sudden, drastic change in weather the atmospheric pressure either suddenly goes up, or plummets down and this sudden difference in pressure affects us. These swings can affect the vestibular system in the ear responsible for balance and spatial orientation, and coordinating movement with your balance. Some people experience a headache, migraine or even vertigo due to this change.
Anxiety
According to ayurveda, seasonal junctions can feel like a bump in the road to our status quo. If you're prone to anxiety, this natural change can make you feel "off".
Allergies
They might not be acting up yet, but if you know you suffer from pollen, now is the time to start preparing yourself.
Positive Changes Spring Can Bring
Maybe you also feel the positive, subtle changes.
Motivation
Perhaps, the extra light at the end of the day is motivating. Have you had the urge to start a new project? Does work take on a busier time or slower pace in the spring?
More Time in Nature
Maybe you're looking forward to more time outside. More hours of daylight and more moderate temperatures invite us into the great outdoors. Walks with friends, morning coffee on the patio. Even that annual yard cleanup or gardening can be an opportunity to connect with Nature and notice and harmonize with the world around us.
What Can you Do to Find Balance?
Begin by amping up your awareness to what is changing around you.
Then begin to notice your own subtle changes within.
OBSERVE nature and talk about what you see changing around you and within you. Take a walk with a friend or with family.
GATHER fresh, local ingredients.
COOK a delicious meal together to be enjoyed around a beautiful spring-themed table!
DEDICATE a day for your ayurvedic dinacharya (oiling, massage and self-care)
CLEAN and declutter
FEED the wildlife
Dietary Cleansing can also be beneficial if done safely and at the correct time.
Noticing and harmonizing with nature keeps us in physical and mental balance.
Want to Learn More?
Continue to notice what's happening around you and within you in relation to the arrival of spring and join me April 30th for a special presentation on Living in Balance Through Seasonal Changes for Spring an Ayurvedic Perspective. I'll share what those observations tell you through an ayurvedic lens and recommendations for support. Plus you’ll get a chance to ask any questions you may have about finding health and balance for spring!
About the Author
Julie Konrad, AHC, E-RYT
Julie is the founder of Cleveland Ayurveda. She is a certified Ayurvedic Health Counselor through the Himalayan Institute and a member of the National Ayurvedic Medical Association (NAMA).
Julie is a veteran yoga instructor with over 15 years experience, registered with the Yoga Alliance, as well as an Ayurvedic Yoga Specialist, certified through the Himalayan Institute.
Julie’s passion is empowering others to take control of their health through the practical applications of ayurveda. She has been a speaker at national conferences and continues to travel, sharing lectures throughout the US. She lives in Shaker Heights, OH with her husband and three girls.
