There is something rather beautiful about the changing seasons. Nature reminds us that there is a time to grow, a time to flourish and, just as importantly, a time to rest.
Yet as the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, we often do quite the opposite. Our diaries become fuller, our minds busier, and we wonder why we're feeling depleted.
Ayurveda, India's ancient system of holistic wellbeing, encourages us to live in harmony with nature, recognising that what nourishes us in summer may not be what we need in winter. Welcome to Vata season.
According to Ayurveda, we are each influenced by three doshas: Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Vata represents air and space, and is associated with movement, lightness, dryness and coolness.
Autumn and early winter are traditionally considered Vata season in temperate climates. Think colder winds, falling leaves and drier air. Ayurveda teaches that these external changes can influence how we feel internally. You may notice drier skin, restless nights, a busy mind or simply a greater need for comfort.
The Ayurvedic principle is beautifully simple: like increases like, while opposites create balance. So when the world feels cold, dry and unsettled, we turn towards warmth, nourishment and stillness. Here are my favourite ways to embrace the season.
One
Nourish yourself from within
There's a reason we instinctively crave comforting food when the temperature drops. Ayurveda traditionally favours warm, freshly prepared meals during Vata season: nourishing soups, lentils, slow-cooked vegetables and warming spices such as ginger, cumin, cinnamon and cardamom. I love the simple pleasure of preparing a pot of tea and actually taking time to enjoy it, rather than drinking it between emails. Eating well should never feel like another chore. It should be one of life's pleasures.
Two
Make skincare a ritual
Colder weather and central heating can leave skin feeling dry and uncomfortable. One of Ayurveda's most beautiful traditions is Abhyanga, the practice of self-massage with warm oil. Growing up surrounded by Indian traditions, I came to appreciate that applying oil was about more than caring for the skin. It was also a moment of connection and nourishment. Massage a little botanical oil into your body using slow, rhythmic movements, and give your face some extra love with a nourishing serum and moisturiser. Five minutes can transform an everyday routine into a moment worth looking forward to.
Three
Find comfort in routine
Vata is associated with movement and change, so Ayurveda encourages consistency. I'm not suggesting we become rigid about our days, life is far too interesting for that! But regular mealtimes, a familiar bedtime and a few moments of quiet can provide wonderful anchors when everything else feels busy. Sometimes the kindest thing we can do for ourselves is return to the basics.
Four
Move, but listen to your body
I love running, and know how much movement can lift our spirits. But wellbeing isn't about pushing ourselves harder every day. Ayurveda traditionally favours gentle, grounding exercise during Vata season. Walking, stretching and yoga can be wonderful companions to a more energetic routine. Some days we feel strong and full of energy. Other days, a walk followed by a warm bath is exactly what we need. There is real wisdom in knowing the difference.
Five
Make rest a ritual, not a reward
If there's one thing I'd love us all to embrace, it's that rest isn't something we have to earn. Dim the lights, put your phone away, enjoy a warm bath and surround yourself with comforting aromas. I have always loved how scent can transform an ordinary moment into something special. A familiar fragrance can become a lovely reminder that the working day is over. And remember that connection is nourishment, too. Share a meal, call someone you love or make time for laughter.
A season to return to yourself
What I love most about Ayurveda is that it doesn't ask us to be perfect. It asks us to become more aware. To notice when we're depleted. To recognise when we need comfort, warmth or quiet. And to remember that balance isn't a destination, but something we gently return to.
Vata season reminds us that flourishing doesn't always mean doing more. Sometimes it means slowing down, nourishing ourselves and finding joy in the everyday. After all, nature doesn't flourish in the same way all year round. And neither should we.