Step out of the sluggishness and spring into happiness.
Spring Kapha excess.
Ayurveda is based on three primary doshas, or constitutions, and the seasons can alter the balance of our predominant dosha energy. In early spring, people naturally tend to feel excess Kapha energy- and the fatigue that goes with it.
So what do we do?
Ayurveda suggests keeping a regular sleep/wake schedule, adding in some daily movements (Yoga, walking, playing with a pet - anything that gets you moving a bit!), and consuming invigorating foods.
In this article:
Ayurveda is a holistic healthcare system that has been practiced in India for thousands of years. The philosophy behind it is that each person has a unique constitution, or dosha, and that by understanding this, you can work with your body to stay healthy and balanced.
Kapha Dosha
Kapha is one of the three doshas, which are the basic constitutional types in Ayurveda. Kapha is made up of the earth and water elements and is associated with the qualities of strong, slow, and stable. People with a predominance of kapha in their constitution are said to be patient, forgiving, and reliable.
People with a kapha constitution are typically stable and strong. They often have a good sense of humor and are very loyal friends. They are good at managing many demands and have a strong sense of time, but they may find it difficult to change their routine or adapt to new situations. They may also be slow to move and take action, and may be prone to lethargy.
Due to their slower metabolism, Kaphas need to have regular exercise, as well as fresh air, and a balanced diet of healthy foods to stay centered.
Late Winter and Early Spring: Kapha Season
The Kapha dosha is said to be dominant in late winter and early spring, when the season is full of rain: heaviness, cold, wet, and stillness in anticipation of all the new life that is about to spring up.
Kapha individuals are likely to feel more weighed down and lethargic. Even if Kapha is not your predominant dosha, if you tend to experience weight gain, lethargy, congestion, or feelings of being slow and stuck during this time, you may be experiencing an imbalance of Kapha energy.
Here are a few tips to help you balance your Kapha energy during this time of year.
Food and Drinks for Kapha Balance
To balance out the Kapha dosha in the spring, it is important to get plenty of exercise and eat lighter, fresher foods. The emphasis should be on foods that are dry, warm, and slightly acidic, including spices like Tulsi, ginger, turmeric, black pepper, and cumin. Ideal light foods for spring include beans, bitter green leafy vegetables, sprouts, radishes, and parsley.
One of the Ayurvedic herbs with the most ubiquitous health benefits is Tulsi, also known as Holy Basil. The Invigorating Blend, a carefully hand-milled set of spices featuring Tulsi and other organic herbs, is ideal for seasonal Kapha sensitivities. Tulsi is a pro-immune and respiratory factor, long used in India to aid the healthy inflammatory response and help lung function.
Yoga for Kapha
Spring is the season of new beginnings, and it's also the time of year when Kapha energy is strongest. Kapha is the dosha associated with earth and water, and it's responsible for creating stability and structure in our lives. When Kapha is in balance, we feel strong, grounded, and content.
In spring, Kapha energy can help us to get rid of bad habits and establish new, healthy ones. It can also help us to connect with our physical and emotional selves, and to find ways to express our creativity. If you're feeling out of balance this spring, try incorporating creative outlets that have a physical component, like yoga.
In order to balance Kapha during the spring season, consider practicing yoga that focuses on the breath and on gentle, twisting movements. We recommend these poses when aided by a knowledgable teacher who can help ensure safe practice*:
- Bhastrika Pranayama (Bellows breath)
- Ujjayi Pranayama
- Kapalabhati Pranayama
A New Start
This spring, celebrate a fresh start; all dosha types appreciate a surge of energy and hope for new beginnings. It is the season of renewal.
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*Please exercise caution with all pranayamas. They are powerful tools and they should not be performed in individuals without proper training or certain medical conditions. As always, if you attempt any exercise and experience discomfort or lightheadedness, stop immediately and seek medical attention.