Welcome Autumn!

I always enjoy the transition from season to season. I can't say that I have a favorite season because there are elements of each that bring me joy.
The leaves changing color.
The cooler temperatures and lower humidity.
The harvest of root vegetables and my craving for thick, creamy soups and stews.
Autumn is a cool, dry season, corresponding to the earth elements of air and ether. In Ayurveda, a sister science to yoga, this is known as a Vata season - light, airy, cool. We all have inside us a degree of Vata. Those who identify with the qualities of Vata may have:
long, slender bones with very mobile joints
dryness in the skin, hair, and nails
a creative mind that quickly hops from one thought to another
Does this describe you? A little or a lot?
Ayurveda teaches us how to adjust our diets and exercise (including yoga asana) to adapt to the changing seasons. For those who have Vata tendencies, try:
Slowing down your yoga practice.
Move slowly from one pose to the next
Breath slowly and deeply as you move
Hold poses longer
Choose poses that are closer to the ground (reclined/seated vs. standing)
Include forward folds and twists; avoid or do fewer back bending postures
Eating foods that are warm and moist (to counter the cool dryness of Vata)
Roasted root vegetables, such as winter squash, parsnips, carrots, turnips and beets
Cream-based soups and stews (for vegetarians look for recipes using coconut milk or cashews as thickeners)
Avoid cool dry foods such as crackers, salads and other raw vegetables.
If you're curious about Ayurveda and your body type (or dosha), you can learn more at More Than a Dosha Quiz from Banyan Botanicals.
Then read Fall Guide: An Ayurvedic Guide to a Soothing and Stable Vata Season for more information about navigating the change of season.
September classes at Ah-sana Yoga will be focused on Vata and helping you feel more grounded and connected to the earth.