Vata spring wellbeing guide

For vata types, spring is one of their favourite seasons because vata types thrive in times of change. But, because of the high level of energy that spring brings with it, vata types are at risk of potential ‘burn out’. Which, is not always a bad thing, but it’s important to remain balanced.

A balance of vata in the body brings comfortable movement, regular breathing, a consistent appetite, normal bowel function, positive enthusiasm, healthy desire, good energy, a calm mind and inspirational creativity. Perfect for welcoming in the new life energy that spring symbolises.

What are the signs of an increased vata?

An imbalanced vata is likely to experience the following symptoms:

• Weight loss

• Increased dryness of the skin, hair and bowels

• Feeling dehydrated

• Excessive bloating

• Erratic digestion

• Insomnia and anxiety

If you don’t know which dosha you are, take our dosha quiz to find out.

How do you balance vata in the spring?

You can balance vata’s cold, airy and dry tendencies by increasing its opposite qualities and introducing more warmth, earthiness and oily nourishment into your life.

This includes staying warm at all times, keeping a regular sleep pattern, and enjoying earthy spices and foods.

The vata diet in spring

The vata diet is about nourishing the nervous system, raising the digestive fire and aiding the body in absorbing nutrients. Vata types are aggravated by drying and cold foods, so keep your level of warmth and oil intake high, particularly in early spring where the weather might still be a bit chilly. Try a lentil based dahl made with coconut oil and garnished with ghee.  

Try to practise these good eating habits during the change in the seasons:

• Eat at regular intervals and don’t over-eat or forget to eat

• Relax and spend time with your food

• Emphasise foods that are warm, soupy, heavy and oily.

• Increase your intake of natural oils

• Favour foods that are sweet, sour or salty

• Reduce foods that are cold, dry or hard

• Reduce foods that are very spicy, bitter or astringent

• Avoid refined foods, stimulants and processed foods

Daily spring rituals for vata

Vata types need to remain balanced and calm during the excitement of spring, so it’s an ideal time for some mind-full meditation practice. Self-massage with castor/sesame oil will also help reduce dry skin conditions from appearing. 

1. Firstly warm the oil to a comfortable temperature in a heated bowl or cup.

2. Dip you fingers into the warm castor oil and spread across over your entire body, starting with your scalp and working all the way down to your toes. This will give the castor oil time to begin soaking in before you begin your self-massage.

3. Using form circular motions, begin massaging your scalp (for 3-4 minutes), continuing down to your face and ears. Continue with circular strokes on both shoulders, lengthening strokes for your arms and legs, and being more gentle for areas such as the stomach and groin. Don't forget the base of your back and bottom also. Be sure to give your feet special attention, allowing time to work between toes and on the soles of the feet to help relieve tension.

4. Take a good 15-20 minutes to do this and allow the oil to sink in. Then take warm bath or shower to rinse any excess oil off. Try only washing your main areas, as the oil will continue to absorb into and cleanse the skin once you have rinsed.

Spring herbal heroes for vata Herbs to help balance the changeable nature of vata in the spring are those that support our nervous system.

• Holy Basil (Tulsi)

• Chamomile

• Ashwagandha

• Valerian

• Castor Oil

Pukka herbal teas for spring include Love, Relax and Tulsi Clarity.

Take our dosha quiz to find out which dosha you are.