We are all more susceptible to respiratory ailments when the seasons change, the reason being that the function of our bodies changes seasonally with the digestive fire or agni trying to adjust from hot to cold or vice versa. Appropriate changes in our diet and daily routine will quickly assist the body to adjust, however, failure to make the appropriate changes will encourage ama or toxins to quickly build up, creating a fertile ground for infection to take hold.
The Auyrvedic theory of immunity is called the beej-bhumi theory or “seed and land”, with seed representing the infection and land representing our bodies. A body filled with toxins will readily become fertile land for penetration of the seeds of infection, whereas a body with a healthy digestive fire will resist the seeds.
In early autumn Ayurveda recommends gentle purifying treatments or panchakarma, such as massage (except while you have a cold or are menstruating), dry rubbing, steam baths and gentle detoxifying intestinal cleansing treatments (seek the help of an Ayurveda practitioner for these treatments) to cleanse the body of any build-up of ama. Gargling with salt water in the morning is an ideal protective measure against bacteria building up in the throat and nasal passages before they enter our bloodstream and weaken our immunity. A neti-pot (available from health food stores) is another way of cleansing the nasal passages, followed by a few drops of sweet almond, coconut or nasya oil applied to the nostrils.
Warm, light, nourishing foods such as soups and mildly spiced vegetables, together with grains such as brown rice, quinoa and millet and immune-boosting herbs like cumin, ginger, black pepper, coriander and tumeric should be eaten during this time. Keeping foods simple, light and portions small is important as the body cleanses and rebuilds agni for the winter months. Good fruit and vegetable choices during autumn are pears and apples (can be lightly stewed), pomegranate, citrus, asparagus, zucchini, squashes, pumpkin, potatoes, lentils. Warm water and herbal teas should be sipped throughout the day and cold foods and drinks avoided.
Regular exercise such as daily walks and yoga are suitable for all body types and essential for helping to eliminate toxins and promote good health and vigour. Sleep is another very important part of the immunity-building process as it promotes cell recovery and renewal and reduces stress. Autumn is a time of realignment of our circadian rhythms with nature and our sleeping time should adjust with the shortening of the days, aiming to sleep by 10.00pm and rise by 6.00am. Keep the body away from cold winds and draughts and dress warmly to ensure head, throat, chest and kidneys are not chilled.
Finally, a daily meditation practice of at least 10-15 minutes, beginning with a few deep breaths, is a soothing balm for our nervous and endocrine systems and helps to reduce daily stress and tension, as well as calming the mind.
Following this simple routine of self-care will greatly boost your immunity as we approach the cooler months.
