wellpdx

In the past several weeks, I've offered to a few people my hopes that their New Year is off to a great start. The majority of responses haven't been stellar. In fact, yesterday, when asked how his year's been so far, a colleague responded with hesitation, "Well, umm, its been interesting." I laughed, and admitted the same.

Perhaps its partially the collective energy being put into the infamous emergence of 2012, but this turning over of years has certainly brought up opportunities for self-examination and exploration. Along with this can be discomfort, or a feeling of not being in balance.

From an Ayurvedic perspective, its also helpful to remember how our external environment influences our physical and mental state. For most of the west coast, a lack of rain and snowfall has created an unusually dry winter,

evermore increasing Vata in our constitutions. Increased Vata can mean restless sleep, poor elimination, and an overactive mind which gives way to fears, anxieties and worry.

During this time of year, we must remember to nurture and care for ourselves in healthy and whole ways, checking in with what our body needs for grounding and ease in life. As winter comes to a close, we might consider clearing this excess accumulated Vata through a gentle Ayurvedic cleanse and detox to insure a healthy transition into the Kapha springtime of rebirth and renewal.