With the advent of winter, a majority of us start developing one singular problem-Dry and Chapped Skin. When you put that in perspective with Ayurveda, it has a lot to speak on the “Dashas.” Ayurveda principles suggest we keep balance with our Vata during these colder months.
While one does so, it is also crucial that one mustn’t aggravate the “Kapha.” For starters. It’s worthwhile to know that Vata occurs from a combination of two elements, namely space, and air.
Now, when one imagines the quality of these elements, they are usually visualized as dry and cold. Hence, Ayurveda recommends that we keep our Vata in a balanced state by resorting to ways like warming, moisturizing, and grounding and adopting similar methods to our daily routine.
Ayurvedic beliefs suggest winter to be the best time of the year, where one can take to caring for skin. This is chiefly because this is the time of the year when the skin is dry enough to take in and absorb any nourishment that comes in contact with it. Here’s a look at five easy, but vital Ayurvedic tips for winter that should give you a head start for optimum skin care in winter.
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The Essence of Massage
Ayurveda swears by hot oil massages, which are just great during winter months. It’s an excellent way to start your day in winters with an Ayurvedic Body Massage Oil before you head for the shower.
Give it some time to get absorbed in your body, which shall impact blood circulation and also reduce stress. While in the shower, ensure the water isn’t too cold or too hot. Furthermore, don’t be too dependent on using soap as it generally strips away necessary oils during the winter. You might opt-in for a body cleanser instead.
Deal With Dry Scalp
Winter months give way to dry scalp, which in turn becomes a breeding ground for dandruff, flakes, and itches. As the blood circulation to your scalp takes a hit during the colder months. It becomes all the way more important to massage the same with your fingertips.
However, it’s worthwhile to note that winters make your hair susceptible to breakage. Hence it is important that you use light fingers for massaging. Hair Oils that carry inclusions of Bhringaraj, Brahmi and Amla, works great in offering the much nourishment to your hair follicles.
Also, you must cover your hair wearing a hat or a scarf to keep it protected from the harsh, chilly winds.
Love Thy Feet
While significant attention is paid towards other body parts, your feet too demands care and love; especially, during the winter season when it tends to grow cracks and other blemishes.
An excellent way to rejuvenate them is to keep them soaked in warm water and add a combination of essential oils like rosemary, lavender, or eucalyptus. Soak your feet in warm water for at least 10-15 minutes and use a pumice stone to help clear away the dead cells, which are a common occurrence.
Right after, take a little bit of Castor Oil and rub it on your heels and follow it up by covering your feet with a pair of old socks. Such grounding treatment renders a calming effect to your feet instantly and is a beautiful relaxation technique for both children and adults.
Because Your Face Matters
While we talk about skincare in winter, facial skin gains a paramount of concern. After all, our face is probably the only part that gets no cover compared to other parts of our body.
On a windy day, it becomes all the way more important that you use a scarf or a muffler to cover your face and neck region, preventing it from catching a cold. During the chilly days, resort towards using a facial cleanser and apply Sesame Oil to keep it moisturized.
If you are frostbitten, use Castor Oil to regain normalcy. You can use castor oil all across your face, eyes, and ears, as well. Remember, your facial skin during the winter months closely resembles a rosebud, tender, and moist.
Hence, one should be careful to nurture and keep it supple by taking proper measures on a regular note. Using Ayurvedic products for your facial skin is highly recommended compared to any store-bought cosmetics that do more harm than good.
A Diet to Pacify the Vata
Taking care of your skin and body parts is undoubtedly necessary during the winter months. But, as mentioned earlier, one should ensure to maintain Vata by switching to a supporting diet.
Stews, chilies, and warm soups are just about the perfect choice of food during winter. Keep yourself filled with the goodness of leafy vegetables and grains to keep your Vata under control and achieve optimum balance.
Dairy products are also great to maintain Vata owing to its heavy quality. However, one should consume dairy products in moderation during the winter as it might lead to the formation of mucus easily. Here’s an excellent recipe for Spice Milk; an excellent choice of food during the winter.
- Take a pan and add equal cups of milk and water. Put 4-5 cardamom pods along with cinnamon, nutmeg, and a dash of peppercorns along with a little bit of turmeric.
- Boil the ingredients under medium heat and allow it to simmer until you have a little bit of liquid left.
- Strain the liquid into a clean cup or mug and garnish it with saffron pieces to add to the flavor.
It is all the way possible to maintain healthy and glowing skin, even during the winter months.
While you are at it, also ensure to reduce your daily stress levels, often relax, drink more water to stay hydrated, and eat a well-balanced diet. Additionally, it is also recommended that you exercise daily and get a good amount of sleep to stay healthy and active during the winter.
If you have any suggestion or if you want to add some more Ayurvedic Tips for Winter. Please comment below.
