The Space Between

We have all shifted into this powerful space between summer and autumn, where there is so much change occurring. There is great beauty in tumbling and turning and shuffling - it is as though everything has been tossed up into the air and all the pieces are waiting to fall into their new found places. It is exciting to peer into the uncertainty of the possibilities. This is the time when Vata is most prominent and it is important to be selective about our diet and lifestyle. Vatic energy needs to be stabilized now; otherwise it has the powerful ability to sweep us into a state of depletion, accelerated stress and exhaustion.

Vata is the energy associated with the element air. It can move through us like a gentle breeze or a forceful tornado. It is unpredictable and cannot be seen until it moves through something or felt through our sense of touch. Vata is dry, cold, rough and always in motion. Traveling, loud noises, constant stimulation, sugar, alcohol, and cold foods all will make you vata deranged!

A few of the best ways to ground vata is by focusing your attention on the Apana Vayu (the downward flow of energy) in your yoga practice. In your life, the next three weeks are for rest rest rest. Ayurvedic wisdom suggests that this is not the ideal time to begin new projects, particularly those that have the potential to be life changing. Avoid over-scheduling, carve out healthy boundaries and be selective about what and who you choose to expose yourself to (just until the equinox). Harvest and harmonize the bounty and blessings in your life. Notice what you HAVE, not what you want right now.

Fasting is not recommended this time of the year because it tends to led to depletion and agitation which makes vata worse. Instead, rethink one of your eating patterns. Skip the daily chocolate. Cut back on the caffeine. Avoid processed cereal and bread. Also, cut down on cold and iced beverages and foods. Move toward drinking more teas and eating soupy and "mushy" foods which will be soothing to your nervous and digestive systems.

And lastly, stay warm. Particularly in the evening so that your body can rest deeply. Take warmer showers and begin oiling your skin daily. Make sure that your feet are warm and that you are never chilled while you are sleeping at night.

The next three weeks can present some of the greatest challenges of the year. However like so many yogic practices, using tapas (determined effort) to stay grounded and not over-do ANYTHING, the swell of peace which can fill us gently unfolds our heart center. Once the autumn equinox arrives, we are balanced and better prepared to move through the end of the year with gratitude and generosity.

It's a practice ~ much love to you all.
Shani Elyse