Does Season Transition Mean More Colds?

In Ayurveda there are three seasons, vata, kapha and pitta. Pitta season is June through October. Vata is from November through February, and Kapha begins in March and lasts through June. The transitioning of seasons is hard on the body.  When the body is stressed or working harder, our immunity naturally lowers.  This means we need extra care.  

Currently we are in Kapha season, which lasts from the second half of winter through spring, and in many areas that means plenty of wet weather. Along with the cold in the earlier parts of the season, it is this theme of wetness that defines Kapha season. No matter what your body (dosha) type is, you will be influenced by Kapha’s prevailing qualities at this time of year.  Extra movement to flush out some of the toxins that have accumulated during the cold winter from heavier foods and less activity is the best way to begin adjusting as well as tongue scraping and possibly neti pot to move extra mucous from the system.  Plus incorporate more pungent and bitter tastes like greens and turmeric.  Yet, each type should balance the focus in the right way for them.  Vata and Kapha types both need to stay warm, but Vata needs to center and ground while Kapha needs to get moving and lighten their diet.  Pitta types like this cool weather and they are encouraged to spend time in nature to calm their competitive and goal oriented personality.

Herbal and supplement support helps our immunity.  First and foremost make sure vitamin D levels are adequate.  Research shows people with healthy levels of vitamin D suffer less from colds and flu. Vitamin C is very important, and it is found in one of Ayurveda's most popular herb of amalaki.
Zinc, oregano oil, propolis, olive leaf extract and garlic are also linked to strengthening immunity and shortening the duration of colds and flu.

By becoming stronger from within we become more resilient and less affected by the things around us.  There will always be germs.  Good self care makes us stronger and healthier.

Stay healthy & well,
Lisa