Wishy Washy Weather and Ayurveda

This week we are be enjoying some beautiful weather in the Reno Tahoe area.  The sun is out and cold mornings are warming up to t-shirt and shorts afternoons reaching temperatures in the mid-60s.  However, we are in the middle of winter and cold weather is sure to creep up again starting with this weekend with highs only getting into the 40s. 

Variations in our environment have an impact on our overall health.  If you already feel overwhelmed and stressed these ups and downs in weather and environment could possibly be the straw that breaks the camels back and you get sick.  Add on lack of rest, sleep and exercise, over working, eating poorly or on the run, over-stimulation from electronic devices and more.  We often think, “I am sick because I was around someone who had a cold or flu,” but stress on the body can come in many forms and can compromise the immune system.  Truth is, we get exposed to germs everyday whether we get sick or not depends on our diet, life-style, routines, consistencies and inconsistencies, energy levels and general health.

Use Ayurvedic Principles to stay healthy during change and variations.  Here’s a list of simple habits that can keep you healthy during environmental ups and downs.

1. Take a 20 min walk at night to release accumulated daily stress.

Take a 20 min walk at night to release accumulated daily stress.

2. Create a routine around eating.  

Eat your breakfast, lunch and dinner around the same time every day.

3. Create a routine at night. 

Go to bed at the same time every night and turn off all electronics 1 to 2 hours before bed.  Remove all devices from the bedroom.  Eat your evening meal a minimum of 3 hours before bed.

4. If you wake in the night, DO NOT GET UP.

Resolve to let the body rest practicing simple breathing techniques such as easy effortless inhale and slow lengthened exhale.  (If you wake up to use the bathroom and can’t go back to sleep use the same breathing method).

5. Incorporate rest into your daily routine.  

Give yourself moments of silence and stillness.  You can add 2 minutes of stillness in the morning before rising, before each meal having gratitude for the food you are about to eat, or before you go into a meeting or an appointment.  STOP, feel your breath, feel your body, feel your feet on the ground.  These moments of stillness can build into adding a meditation practice into your life and the benefits are abounding.

For diet, life-style and routines that are right for you, make an Ayurvedic appointment today.  The knowledge you gain is long-lasting and will improve your quality of life. 

To learn more contact Marie Harger AHP - Ayurvedic Health Practitioner.