According to Ayurveda, it is extremely important to align one’s diet to the seasons. Autumn is the beginning of the dominance of Vata dosha, which is by nature dry, cool, light, mobile and subtle. In the fall the there is less sun, it is getting colder and windier. These circumstances increase Vata dosha. Digestive fire – agni, can be reduced or disturbed. In order to balance Vata, we need to eat food that pacifies it.
We should increase the intake of healthy fats, such as ghee and sesame or olive oil. Our menu should include more warm protein-rich foods, such as nutritious soups and stews. Breakfast should also be warm – cooked oatmeal should be your go to choice. If you add dried fruits and nuts in it, be sure to soak them in warm water overnight.
For lunch and dinner we should also eat warm stews, soups, cereals ans steamed vegetables. As most pulses will increase Vata dosha, Ayurveda recommends avoiding them in the fall. The exceptions are mung dal and brown lenses. We should cook with spices such as pepper, ginger, cumin, turmeric, curry, garam masala, asafoetida, mustard, cinnamon and nutmeg, as they heat the body.
We should make a habit of drinking hot teas with ginger. Before going to bed a cup of warm milk with turmeric, nutmeg or cinnamon and good quality milk will make a big difference.
Daily exercise is a must. Persons of vata constitution should take care of circulation, joint and signs of cracking or drying of the skin. We strongly recommend abhaynga – massage with warm sesame oil. The oil will nourish the skin, bones and joints.
These are, of course, just general tips. To obtain detailed instructions for your individual constitution, we recommend an individual consultation with an Ayurvedic doctor.