wisdom

We surround ourselves with the love of family and the comfort of food traditions throughout the season. While these things bring us joy, it often leaves us feeling depleted. Many of us experience the stress of family dynamics, pressure of shopping and tight schedules. Most of us leave with digestive issues for weeks, including bloating, reflux, constipation, and a general feeling of sluggishness.

Ayurveda can bring us back into balance in our bodies and clarity in our minds for a healthy season. A few simple practices will help you stay connected to your inner voice, keep your nervous system regulated, and bring you into greater awareness so you can fully enjoy this special time of year.

During events:

• Remember to enjoy AND be aware of how you feel. Listen to your body.
• Avoid cold drinks, especially during meals. Pause drinking 30 min before and after meals so not to dilute digestive juices.
• Go easy on the alcohol as it is drying and causes inflammation
• Sip on warm water or CCF throughout the day.
• Eat a little slice of fresh ginger with pink salt before eating to stoke Agni and digestion
• Avoid snacking and grazing
• Eat to 2/3 full and you will feel so much better after the meal
• Step away for alone time, fresh air - when you need it.
• Lay on your left side for 10-20 min after eating to encourage efficient digestion
• Take triphala at night before bed to detox and cleanse the system
• Add Ashwagandha to your tea or take a pill to relax the nervous system, if needed

After the party:

• Circadian Rhythms - Keep your waking and sleep times as regular as possible, aiming to wake near 6:30 and sleep no later than 10:00. Eat at regular times, with the heaviest meal mid-day, and dinner no later than 6. This helps you synchronize with circadian rhythms and your metabolism is bolstered by nature.

• Nourishing Body - Minimize sugar and alcohol. Sip on warm water throughout the day. Eat warm, cooked foods. Have Khichdi at least once/week, and for 2-4 days after a major eating event. Come to Kosa for ours! Or buy our Khichdi spice.

• Herbal Balancing - In addition to your warm water, make your herbal tea for your specific tummy needs: Kosa CCF for all around detox and digestive health, fresh ginger and touch of black pepper for bloating, fennel and ajwain for reflux. Put herbs in a little jar or baggie and carry with you to your destination and make with hot water before or after meals. A little tea does wonders!

• Nervous System Care - Spend 2-10 minutes each morning calming the nervous system. Try a short walk outside, meditation, or simple breath work. See video below for an essential breath work practice for calming the nervous system, giving your more space and resource to stay healthy in the mind.

• Come to the spa and let us take care of you. Detox in the steam/sauna, disconnect in the Sanctuary, sip on CCF tea, experience healing touch with our organic herbal oils and skincare.