Autumn calls for a holistic approach to skincare and diet with soothing elixirs that balance the inherent qualities of the Vata dosha. The essence of Ayurvedic rituals for autumn is grounded in the elements of air and ether. Vata resonates with dryness, coolness, and instability, thus urging us to prioritise nourishment, warmth, and grounding practices for optimal skincare and overall well-being.
Harmonising Face Masks: Here are some Ayurvedic face mask recipes that are designed to nurture and restore balance to Vata-prone skin.
Nourishing Avocado and Honey Mask
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1 tablespoon of raw honey
1 teaspoon milk
1 teaspoon of rose water
Method: Blend the mashed avocado with raw honey, milk and rose water to create a luxurious, hydrating paste. Gently apply the mask, allowing the skin to absorb its nourishing elements for 15 minutes before rinsing off with lukewarm water.
Soothing Almond and Milk Mask
2 tablespoons of almond powder
2 tablespoons of raw milk
1 teaspoon of aloe vera gel
A pinch of turmeric
Method: Combine almond powder, raw milk, aloe vera gel and turmeric to form a creamy consistency. Apply the mask evenly. Rinse gently after 20 minutes for a revitalised and supple complexion.
Balanced Beauty Beverages: Elevate your skincare regimen with these Ayurvedic-inspired beauty beverages and soothing milk drinks formulated to align with the Vata dosha to restore balance from within.
Ginger and Turmeric Tea
1 teaspoon of grated ginger
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder1 teaspoon of raw honey
2 cups of water
Method: Boil water with grated ginger and turmeric powder for 10 minutes. Strain the concoction into a cup, adding raw honey for a touch of sweetness. Savour the comforting warmth of this Vata balancing elixir to calm the mind and nurture the body.
Cinnamon and Cardamom Infusion
1 cinnamon stick
3-4 cardamom pods
2 cups of water
1 teaspoon of jaggery (optional)
Method: Boil water with cinnamon sticks and cardamom pods for 15 minutes. Allow the aroma to infuse the water and add jaggery for a subtle sweetness. Indulge in this comforting beverage to foster a sense of tranquillity amidst the seasonal changes.
Spiced Turmeric Milk
1 cup of milk (almond, coconut, or A2 cow’s milk)
1 teaspoon of turmeric powder
1/2 teaspoon of ground cinnamon
A pinch of ground ginger
A pinch of ground nutmeg
1 teaspoon of raw honey
Method: In a saucepan, heat the milk over low heat. Add turmeric, cinnamon, ginger, and nutmeg. Allow the spices to infuse the milk. Stir gently until the milk is warm and the flavours are well incorporated. Sweeten with raw honey, pour into a mug, and relish the soothing warmth of this Vata balancing elixir.
Revitalising Diet for Vata Balance:
Emphasise nourishing, warm, and easily digestible foods during the Vata season to maintain equilibrium within the body. Opt for cooked grains, soups, stews, and root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets. Incorporate healthy fats from sources like ghee, sesame oil, and avocados to support skin hydration and internal balance.
Lentil Vata Stew
A nourishing Vata stew, brimming with wholesome ingredients that embrace the essence of Autumn.
Hearty Lentil and Vegetable Stew
1 cup mixed lentils (red and green lentils)
2 cups chopped seasonal vegetables (carrots, sweet potatoes, and kale)
1 tablespoon of ghee
1 teaspoon of cumin seeds
1 teaspoon of ground coriander
1 teaspoon grated ginger
1 green chili finely chopped (optional)
1/2 teaspoon of ground black pepper
4 cups of vegetable broth or water
Salt to taste
Method: In a large pot, heat ghee over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle. Stir in ground coriander, fresh grated ginger, chopped green chilli and black pepper. Add chopped vegetables and sauté for a few minutes. Rinse lentils and add them to the pot along with vegetable broth or water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes until the lentils and vegetables are tender. Season with salt to taste.
Serve this soul-soothing Vata stew in a bowl, allowing its nourishing warmth to envelop your senses and provide comfort during the cool autumn evenings.
A Holistic Journey of Self-Nurturing: Immerse yourself in the gentle allure of Ayurvedic fall rituals, celebrating the Vata season’s transient beauty and transformative energy to foster a holistic sense of well-being and vitality. Let your skincare, diet, and culinary rituals narrate the saga of balance, rejuvenation, and timeless allure, echoing the grace of Ayurvedic wisdom in every moment.
Seema Puri Bhatia
Seema is a culinary expert who blends ancestral culinary traditions in a holistic approach to well-being by combining nourishing foods, healing teas, meditation and yogic practices.
A global citizen having lived in London, Hong Kong and Mumbai, Seema is inspired by her extensive travels. She believes in the profound connection between diet, thoughts, and breath, impacting mental and physical health. As a certified “Breath, Water & Sound” teacher with The Art of Living, Seema conducts transformative sessions in London and online. Her unique approach integrates diet, breathwork, ayurvedic beauty, affirmations, and meditation, nurturing holistic well-being.
In Hong Kong and Singapore, Seema has hosted sacred evenings of yoga, meditation, and ecstatic dance featuring her renowned “Shakti Shots” and “Indonesian Jamu,” served alongside a yogic meal at the end of each event. She also teaches holistic cooking while sharing her culinary wisdom. Seema tailors self-care prescriptions for each individual, incorporating an ayurvedic-inspired diet, breath work, meditation, beauty rituals, and holistic facials into a personalized wellness journey. Her commitment to holistic wellness, rooted in ancient wisdom, empowers others to live their fullest potential.
