Close of Summer

I'm always a little sad to see the summer fade into shorter days, but we still have plenty of warm weather and time for the best outdoor hikes of the year ahead! 

I just want to remind you to seek out your tree.

You know...the one I told you to choose to be your seasonal guide.

If you don't have a tree picked out, no worries, choose one this week in your yard, or along your daily walk. Introduce yourself and don't be afraid to give her a pat on the trunk. Connect. It might sound cheesy, but what do you have to lose? 

Your tree is starting to show signs of change. Her top leaves might be turning orange or brown or, she might still be lustrous green but there are changes nonetheless. What do you see, smell and feel about the time we're in. Do you feel any changes within you that go along with this time of year. 

All ayurveda recommends for you to do right now for optimal health is to pay attention. You don't need to change the foods you're eating or the oils you're using quite yet. Just tune in. Start thinking about how you'll change things up for fall. 

I thought this would be a good opportunity to teach you about the gunas.

In ayurveda, the gunas are the specific qualities of all things that are made of matter—including us. They are the culmination of the mingling of the elements and contribute to our unique doshas, traits, and ways of being. Identifying the gunas help us put words to what we sense and feel.

There are 10 pairs of opposites (see below) that make up the gunas. You probably recall choosing between these to help determine your dosha. BUT it's really important to be asking yourself what you're feeling when you're seeking balance, because most likely it's one of these qualities that's ailing you-and sometimes just knowing the opposite of this quality can help you figure out what you need to feel better.

1. Heavy/Light

2. Dull/Sharp

3. Cold/Hot

4. Oily/Dry

5. Smooth/Rough

6. Dense/Porous (or liquid)

7. Soft/Hard

8. Still/Moving

9. Gross/Subtle

10. Cloudy/Clear
    

For example maybe you travelling a lot and you feel "off" if you try grounding yourself, getting some rest and simply try to "still" yourself, you'll feel better.

Maybe you're feeling a dullness in your mind-you might need to engage in the sharpness of focus to feel good again.

Or it could be as simply as being overheated and taking a cold shower or drinking cool water to feel refreshed.

It's important to look at yourself and check in with the gunas because what you'll discover are always giveaways to exactly what must be addressed within your body and/or mind to bring about healing, balance and optimal health.

Take a look at the chart below. You'll notice that the qualities fall under vata/pitta/kapha too. Find the quality that you're dealing with and there is the dosha you need to balance! Voila! Wild huh?

Don't worry if this makes no sense to you. Please don't unsubscribe! I'll be breaking it down as we go forward. I promise.

Of course, I'm happy to help guide you through this anytime. Just reply to this message to set up an appointment :) 

I look forward to sharing more seasonal support with you next month. 

Don't forget to check your oils from last year and pitch anything that has old essential oils in it or has become sticky. They can get rancid.

Stock up with fresh, medicinal oils for fall! Komal herbals below is fantastic for helping you build your little apothecary.

Wondering When to do a Fall Rejuvenation?

I suggest beginning on the Autumnal equinox on September 22nd as it aligns perfectly with the changing seasonal position of the earth and sun, but any time after September 22 and when the leaves begin to fall would be appropriate. The most important thing about timing is that you specifically set this time aside. Many clients like to take a day or two off work or schedule it around a long weekend. 

What do you think? Want to give it a try?

It would be my privilege to guide you through your rejuvenation! 

Be well friends!

Julie