10 Holistic Ways to Embrace Spring & Renew Your Energy
Spring has arrived. The time of year when the hibernation of winter draws to an end, and we can start to crawl out from under the duvet and unbatten the hatches.
In place of winter is the promise of lighter and brighter days and nights. Nature has redecorated, and is blooming with spring flowers and awash with greener pastures. If that wasn’t enough to lure us back out, the birds are singing and fields are enriched with new wild and farm animal life.
Spring is the season for renewal and new beginnings and, like nature, we too may feel the desire to shed our winter coats and dawn our spring attire.
Nature, along with our body and mind, knows exactly what to do to shift seasons.
However, there is a lot about the modern world that separates us from our true nature, and I believe it never hurts to give nature a helping hand.
Aligning with the seasons
Often called the sister science of yoga, Ayurveda is one of the oldest recorded wellbeing systems. It is believed to have been developed thousands of years ago in India.
It approaches health holistically, and is principally concerned with prevention and keeping the body in balance – so that it remains in optimal working order.
It works on the premise that we are all made up of a mix of the five elements – ether, air, fire, water, and earth. These five elements take the form of 3 constitutions or doshas named Vata, Pitta, and Kapha.
Our unique blend of the doshas determines our mind-body type. They manifest to influence our mental, physical, and emotional tendencies which, according to Ayurveda, are given to us to help us fulfil our life purpose.
As we move from winter to spring, Kapha, with the elements of earth and water, is the dosha that predominately rules the roost.
In and out of balance
Those who have a dominant Kapha dosha are likely to be warm and friendly, strong, steady, and calm. However, out of balance Kapha can be prone to slow digestion, weight gain, fluid retention, allergies, and low mood. They can be challenging to get motivated and moving, favouring instead more time in bed or in front of the TV.
So, what can we do to step into spring and balance Kapha to boot?
Giving yourself and nature a helping hand
All of the strategies shared below are aimed at giving ourselves, nature and Kapha a helping hand – in transitioning to the new spring season.
1. Spring clean
Whilst spring cleaning will of course result in a cleaner and more organised environment, it can also have a significant impact on our mental and physical wellbeing.
If our home or work environment feels an unclean, cluttered, and disorganised mess, then it is likely to be a stressor that can rob us of our peace. In contrast, when you feel that your environment is somewhat in good shape and under control, it is more likely to be a positive to your mental health.
There are physical benefits to a spring clean too. We are in the season of respiratory issues like hay fever, both benefiting from a clean environment to live, work, and sleep in.
2. Consider a cleanse
A cleanse or detox can relieve the body of any build-up of toxins and give it an opportunity to rest and restore, whilst potentially creating some positive new nutritional habits.
You might like to simply start to move away from the comforting winter foods to more lighter spring choices. Building in lots of fresh produce flavoured with stimulating spices like cumin, chilli, cayenne, and pepper to get those Kapha systems moving. Along with upping your hydration, supported by herbal teas such as lemon and ginger.
3. Spring is in the air!
Our senses are a powerful way to invoke and to experience the new season. Visualisation is a powerful technique that can see you capitalise on those spring vibes.
Simply close your eyes and spend a few moments conjuring up an image of the sights, sounds, and scent of spring, and see if it lifts or shifts your mood?
Or perhaps pop a couple of drops of an uplifting essential oil, like lemongrass, in the shower.
4. Clean out the pipes
Those prone to hay fever may find it starts to get a bit itching and sneezy this time of year.
A Neti Pot is an Ayurvedic technique that is on hand to help. Basically, a neti pot is a device used to flush out mucus, allergens, and bacteria from the nasal passages with a saline solution.
5. Move more
Whatever your dosha, spring is an opportunity to get outside and get back on track. Any energy left in the tank after spring cleaning could be used for a spot of gardening.
Alternatively, make the most of the lighter mornings and evenings with a walk or jog in nature.
6. Skin deep
A key function of the lymphatic system is to provide a variety of detoxification functions. This requires the muscles and joints to be mobile. Dry skin brushing and tapping are two techniques that profess to give the lymphatic and circulatory systems a boost.
Dry skin brushing
Using a natural fibre brush, start at your feet and move up your body using wide, circular, clockwise motions. Always brush upward towards your armpits.
7. Community
If you have been in hibernation, friendships and social interactions may have been put on the back burner. Winter can be a lonely time of year, and spring brings with it an opportunity to catch up with friends or schedule in some events.
8. Lift your mood
If we give the body a boost through nutrition and movement, we are likely to also experience a positive shift to our mind and our mood. A good spring practice is a ‘walking meditation’.
9. Utilise the breath
Breathing practices can elicit relaxation and boost energy. Techniques like Bellows Breath work to increase oxygen and invigorate the body and mind.
10. Spa time
An at-home spa day is a wonderful way to practice self-care and support your body and mind in shifting seasons.
Bev Alderson
Bev Alderson is a Mindfulness, Yoga and Stress Management Consultant bringing authenticity to the work she does through Practically Balanced.
With thanks to Bev for this article. If you have any questions regarding these health topics, please don't hesitate to get in touch with our team.
The Better Health Beat Team