Vata & Aging Gracefully
In Eastern medicine, an Ayurvedic lifestyle is ingrained starting early in life. For those who do not know what this means, it’s “life knowledge.” We learn about healthy habits and practices; the wisdom becomes how we practice. It’s essentially preventative medicine!
We do these daily practices so that as we age, our bodies perform best, and the mind has developed the wisdom to shift from each season or chapter of our lives. We know when to slow gracefully before the body breaks down.
In Ayurveda, we call this the Vata stage of life. It’s one of the three doshas. For those over fifty, you are in Vata season, where our mental and physical bodies have shifted. Women often feel anxious, and men will often become vulnerable for the first in their lives.
The first thing to know is that you aren’t alone. The next thing to know is there is still time to begin incorporating the essential practices. Our fifties are still very active and work-focused. Practice this now and set yourself up for a beautiful and pain-free life as you move into your 70s and over.
I often have to stop and remember that most people do not know these simple practices of Vata life that will enhance sleep, reduce anxiety, and allow you to let go of the past and worries of the future.
Let’s start with my TOP FIVE. I will also challenge you to ask yourself, Is my life worth the little time it takes to prioritize practices? Do I want to enjoy my next chapter, traveling, learning, and creating new things?
TOP FIVE VATA LIFE PRACTICES:
Oil your body every single day. As we age, our bodies become drier and bones more brittle. Lotion is not the same. It sits on the surface of the skin. Oil penetrates the skin. There is no need for expensive creams and Botox. I prefer sesame or coconut oils. Here’s a great resource! Banyan Botanicals.
Hydrate more than ever. Interestingly, as we age, we don’t desire to drink water as much, but we need it more than ever. It’s a natural progression that we consume less water. Notice that and be sure to manage that decline with awareness.
Yoga is the best practice for aging. It allows us to keep lubricated joints, balance, and mobility. It builds strength and keeps our bones strong. Find a teacher who is gentle in their teaching method. We aren’t all trying to stand on our heads over 50! Visit studios that offer gentle yoga and possibly chair yoga for those challenged with getting off the floor.
Meditation keeps us grounded. In the Vata season of life, we become more vulnerable. The unknown future can bring anxiety. Starting a daily practice will build muscle memory to feel the results. Wisdom and peace, my friends, are where we should be in the Vata season of life.
Early, Early & Light Dinner is always best. I used to make fun of my parents eating at 5:30 pm! In Ayurveda, it’s the number ONE practice for good digestion. Believe it or not, it’s an anti-aging practice. Eating late and going to bed causes an ARRAY of issues, from dementia to digestive problems. Our systems are aging, and you do not want to keep the engine running while you sleep! *Eat your biggest meal at lunch and something as light as soup or salad at Dinner.
Try these practices in small steps. When we treat our bodies with grace and gratitude, what we receive is priceless. Our opportunities for freedom and the desire to learn and create something beautiful in this chapter are in our hands.
With Love,
Kristin