During winter the earth’s energy is withdrawn back into herself. Mother nature is at rest, and you can give your mind and body extra nourishment. The weather is often cold, wet, cloudy and heavy and is dominated by the water element.

The main reason you might catch the flu or a cold is because your immune system is weak. Physical strength and appetite is highest in winter. In winters, the body retains heat and protects itself from the cold weather. Here`s few yogic tips to strengthen your immune system:

Daily routine for winter

• Self-massage with warm sesame oil.
• Exercise in the morning to increase circulation and immunity.
• Follow a regular rhythm of sleep, mealtimes and rest.
• Neti cleansing – by irrigating your nasal passage with salt water.
• Nasya oil – by applying a few drops of each nostril and inhaling deeply.

Some of the signs of imbalance during winter are insomnia, stress, worry, constipation, colds joint pain.

Ayurvedic tips

• The digestive fire is usually stronger in winter so you can eat heavier foods.
• Eat more foods that are sweet, sour, salty, heavy, oily, moist: soups, stews, root veggies, warm ginger teas. Eat more warm, moist, oily cooked foods.
• Eat fewer foods that are pungent, bitter, astringent, light, cold, dry: such as salads, smoothies, cold foods and beverages, crackers, chips, ice cream, etc.
• Add some delicious spices – such as turmeric, cumin, fennel, fenugreek, black pepper, cayenne, cardamom, cinnamon.
• Eat more fat and protein. Add ghee, avocado, sesame oil or olive oil to your meals.