Ozark Mountain Yoga Mindful Living Magazine April 2015 | Page 13

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and earth. As spring approaches, it brings along the water and earth elements. Snow begins to thaw, hydrating the ground in hopes of producing a robust harvest. In Ayurveda, this is known as the Kapha time of year.

With excess accumulation of the water and earth elements you may notice a shift in your body. As this time of year approaches, mucus will begin to accumulate, heavier and stickier stools may occur and you may feel all around lethargic. To solve this shift in your body, Ayurveda refers to the principle of opposites; like increases like, and opposites balance. By tuning into your body and practicing this principle, you can begin to cleanse your body, mind and life.

Just as the snow begins to thaw, your body starts to shed the excess mucus and fat that was necessary for winter. In protection against the winter elements (ether and air) during this time of year it is natural to eat heavy foods such as, meat, grains, root vegetables and dairy. As spring takes control, your body emerges from hibernation. When applying the rule of opposites to your food, during the spring favor the astringent and bitter vegetables that begin to grow (i.e. sprouts, leafy greens, berries, etc.). In order to avoid congestion in your body and life, think about making light choices. Instead of making the dense, sticky pot roast opt for a barley and vegetable soup. Help alleviate the heaviness in your body by cooking with spices. Explore the wonderful world of ginger, turmeric, fennel and cumin. Cooking with these spices will help stimulate digestion as well as holding a number of other benefits.

Another quality that spring carries is attachment, or a feeling of being stuck in the mud. Spring-cleaning is a great way to release from the stickiness of the season. What is the number one way to get rid of excess? Donate. Let go of the items that may be lurking in the back of your closet or garage. Deep clean your home to feel lighter and more reinvigorated.

In addition to cleaning your environment, begin cleansing your sense organs. If possible, cut extra stimuli out of your environment. Try taking a one-week break from social media. Refrain from music in the car; allow the quiet to captivate you. When at home, avoid using cell phone or checking email. Challenge yourself to be present by allowing your sense organs to relax.

As nature begins to shift and grow, encourage yourself to do the same. Get to know your body and tune in to the subtle cues it is trying to tell you. Are you feeling heavy and congested? By practicing Ayurveda’s principle of opposites, how can you reduce the excess mud in your body, life and mind? Upon waking, ask yourself, “How do I feel and what do I need?” Continue this practice throughout the day and to transform into spring gracefully.

Balance Your Spring with Grace

Creating space in

your body, life

and mind

through Ayurveda

It is Ayurveda’s goal for our bodies to sync up to the rhythm of nature. We see nature reveal herself within the five elements: ether (space), air, fire, water

Alex Mauer is currently teaching Yoga and leading Ayurveda workshops in St. Louis, Mo. She is studying to be an Ayurvedic Health Counselor at Kripalu Center for Yoga and Health. For more information on Ayurveda you can contact her at [email protected].