5 Self-Care Practices to Balance Your Vata Energy This Autumn

Honouring the change of the season.

I am absolutely loving the cooler and windier days of autumn. Perhaps because the heat of summer was so so looong in Greece, or maybe because it's the time to slow down and take it easy. Which is great when we give ourselves the permission to do that!

Autumn is often dry, windy and erratic. There is a lot of change and movement. When we ourselves have a lot of vata energy we can become more scattered, forgetful, anxious and overwhelmed. 

To maintain balance and harmony during this season, it’s helpful to incorporate practices that nurture and ground us.

Here are 5 self-care practices to help balance the vata energy this autumn:

1. Daily Oil Massage (Abhyanga): Take a few moments each day to perform a self-massage with warm sesame or almond oil. This practice can soothe your nervous system and hydrate your skin, promoting a sense of calm.

2. Walk In Nature: Escape your to-do list for a few moments and get lost outdoors. Enjoy the changing colours and the rustling sounds. A great way to boost your mood and practice mindfulness, as you take in each moment with all of your senses. 

3. A Steady Routine: Try to do the same things at roughly the same times each day. Like waking up, exercising, eating and going to bed. The consistency creates a sense of security. And it's OK to slow things down. No need to rush!

4. Seek comfort: Create a calm and relaxing space in your home to retreat to. Perhaps a cozy place to read your favourite books. Add extra pillows and blankets, and light some candles. Make your favourite herbal tea and allow yourself to fully embrace the energy of stillness and quiet. 

 5. Gentle Yoga Practices: Incorporate some calming and grounding yogainto your routine. Focus on slower, more restorative practices that promote stability and relaxation. This can help you cultivate a sense of inner peace and balance amidst the changes of the season.