An Ayurvedic Guide to Spring, Our Season of Renewal

by Olivia Fried

Spring is a time of transition. It is evident everywhere around us. Trees and shrubs are bursting forth in bloom. The world is becoming green as temperatures gradually rise.  
 
While we all enjoy the promise of warmer weather and the more colorful season that is Spring, many also dread this time of year due to allergy and respiratory ailments, along with the winter weight gain and depression that we may be feeling. Ayurveda, the ancient medical science and sister science of Yoga, teaches us that to enjoy good health, we must adapt our lifestyle practices to the changes in our environment. Since Spring is a heavy, wet, cool season our practices should incorporate those that are warming, light and dry. We:
 

• Shift our diet away from “winter” vegetables (winter squash, pumpkin, sweet potatoes) to incorporate the bitter, lighter greens (collards, dandelions, asparagus) that come into season now. Berries are also an important part of a Spring diet as are sprouts. 
• Avoid cold, wet, raw foods such as dairy, cold salads and iced drinks.
• Use more pungent spices such as ginger and pepper to stimulate digestion and incorporate other spices such as fennel, cumin and coriander in your diet. 
• Increase exercise – get outside for a walk as often as possible.
• Start to wake-up a little earlier each morning. Rise with the birds!

 
Becoming aware of the effects of seasonal changes on our bodies and minds can lead us to lifestyles practices that support a healthier, more fulfilling life!

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Olivia Fried is a Certified Ayurvedic Practioner, Licensed Massage Therapist (LMBT#13895) and Registered 200 hr Yoga Teacher. Olivia designs basic lifestyle plans that serve her clients in their quest for living a healthy, vibrant life. Together with regular Massage and Yoga practices, these plans move clients along their
Path to Wellness.
 
For more information, or to join a Yoga Class,
see ventureintowellness.massagetherapy.com or
contact Olivia directly at olivia.ayurveda@gmail.com.