Winters in the Netherlands are generally unpredictable, dark, harsh, cold, and damp. Winter is therefore a season where both our minds and bodies are at high risk of becoming completely unbalanced. Depression and melancholy lurk.
According to Ayurveda, the doshas are kapha and vata Winter is dominant, and that's why it's important to pay extra attention to our diet and lifestyle. It's no wonder that flora and fauna also tune in annually to turn inward, for rest and recovery, or to preserve their life energy. Winter represents reflection and making plans for the future. Below, you'll find some tips to help you stay balanced.
Take warm/warming food
Eat fewer raw foods like salads, as they can weaken your digestive fire. Increase your fire (Agni) by using more warming spices like cinnamon, cloves, cumin, and ginger. Include more fat in your diet, such as ghee, sesame oil, or olive oil.
Go for seasonal vegetables
How about pumpkin, parsnips, various types of cabbage, carrots, or sweet potatoes? They're all warming and packed with the nutrients our bodies need. And don't forget fruits like oranges, tangerines, apples, and pears.
Drink warm water or herbal tea regularly
Avoid ice-cold drinks and, instead of warm (boiled) water, opt for hot water with lemon, honey, or ginger. You can also make your own drinks to unleash your creativity. A cup of homemade hot chocolate with some whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder will give you a little extra energy and a temporary feeling of happiness.
Have regular oil massages (abhyanga)
Ayurvedic massages with warm herbal oils are essential during winter. We offer a wide range of massages, including a combination massage with a swedana (steam cabin). Alternatively, you can give yourself a short daily massage with warm oils like sesame oil. This has a warming effect, strengthening your skin, warming your muscles, and calming your nervous system.
Create warmth and coziness
December is the festive month that many look forward to; it's a time for togetherness and pampering yourself in the magical atmosphere of winter paradise, faith, and light. Create a cozy, pleasant, and inviting environment at home. Cocoon yourself, relax on the couch or in a comfortable spot where you can completely unwind. You can do this with candles, warm blankets, soothing ambient music, scents, and reading, watching movies, or meditating.
Be more aware of your exercise habits
Despite the cold and damp weather, get outside regularly. Embrace the sunshine when it unexpectedly appears. Light will give you positive energy and strength. Respect your limits. In your work, be careful not to overload yourself, especially towards the end of the year. And pick up some yoga workouts you enjoy (such as gentle stretching or meditation exercises focused on breathing).
Ayurvedic winter soup with pumpkin and lentils
Ingredients:
- 1 small pumpkin, peeled and diced
- 1 cup red lentils
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon ghee (or olive oil)
- 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger
- 4 cups vegetable stock
- Sea salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: a handful of fresh coriander
Preparation method:
- Heat the ghee in a soup pot and add the cumin seeds. Let them brown slightly until fragrant.
- Add the onion, garlic and ginger and fry until translucent.
- Add the turmeric and cinnamon, followed by the pumpkin cubes. Stir well so the spices coat the pumpkin.
- Add the red lentils and vegetable stock. Simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the pumpkin and lentils are tender.
- Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth, or leave it chunky.
- Season with salt and pepper and garnish with fresh coriander, if desired.
This recipe is suitable for 2 – 4 people.
Enjoy your meal!
