As we find ourselves in the heart of mid-February, the seasons are shifting in subtle yet profound ways. While winter still lingers, spring is beginning to stir beneath the surface.
According to Ayurveda, this late-winter period is a crucial time for preparation—a time to gently clear away stagnation, support digestion, and awaken our energy so that we can transition into spring with balance and vitality.
In this blog, we’ll explore:
Understanding Late-Winter Ayurveda & the Rise of Kapha
5 Simple Rituals for Seasonal Balance
How to Perform Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) for Energy & Clarity
A Warming Digestive Tea Recipe for Late Winter
Final Reflections: Preparing for Spring with Intention
Let’s dive in. 🌿
Understanding Late-Winter Ayurveda & the Rise of Kapha
In Ayurvedic wisdom, the year is divided into seasonal doshas, each with dominant qualities that influence our bodies and minds. Winter is primarily Vata (cold, dry, light) in early months, but as we move toward March, Kapha (heavy, cool, damp) begins to rise. This shift is why so many people experience:
✔️ Sluggish digestion
✔️ Congestion or sinus issues
✔️ Feeling lethargic or heavy
✔️ A tendency toward emotional heaviness
By aligning with the seasonal rhythms and making mindful adjustments, we can gently support our bodies in clearing excess Kapha, preventing seasonal imbalances, and setting the stage for spring vitality.
5 Simple Rituals for Seasonal Balance : Ayurveda Rituals for Winter to Spring
These Ayurvedic self-care rituals help clear stagnation, improve circulation, and support digestion as we transition toward spring:
1. Sip Warm, Spiced Teas 🔥
Late winter is the perfect time to introduce more warming spices into your diet. Ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, clove, black pepper, and cardamom help:
✔️ Stimulate digestion
✔️ Improve circulation
✔️ Melt excess mucus & Kapha buildup
👉 Try our warming digestive tea recipe below!
2. Dry Brushing & Self-Massage (Abhyanga) 🌿
Dry brushing (Garshana) helps stimulate circulation, exfoliate the skin, and move lymphatic stagnation—all of which counterbalance Kapha’s heavy, sluggish nature. Follow with a warm self-massage (Abhyanga) using invigorating oilslike mustard seed or sesame to promote warmth and detoxification.
3. Try Kapalabhati (Skull-Shining Breath) for Energy 💨
One of the best ways to shake off Kapha sluggishness is through dynamic breathwork. Kapalabhati, or Skull-Shining Breath, is a cleansing, energizing pranayama technique that:
✔️ Clears brain fog
✔️ Supports lung & sinus health
✔️Increases mental clarity & focus
👉 How to Perform Kapalabhati:
Sit comfortably with a tall spine.
Take a deep inhale, then exhale sharply through your nose while pulling your belly inward.
Allow the inhale to happen naturally, then exhale sharply again.
Continue for 20 short, rhythmic exhalations, then rest and breathe normally.
Repeat for another round.
🚨 Note: Avoid Kapalabhati if you are pregnant, have high blood pressure or glaucoma.
4. Lighten Up Your Meals 🥣
As we shift toward spring, it’s helpful to reduce heavy, dense foods (like dairy, fried foods, and excessive sweets) and favor lighter, cooked meals such as:
✔️ Kitchari (a simple, digestible rice & lentil dish)
✔️ Steamed seasonal vegetables
✔️ Herbal broths
✔️ Spiced soups
5. Move Your Body Daily 🌞
Even if it’s still cold outside, movement is essential to prevent Kapha stagnation. A brisk morning walk, yoga, or gentle cardio can help:
✔️ Boost metabolism
✔️ Improve circulation
✔️ Clear mental fog
Even 10 minutes of mindful movement can make a difference in how you feel.
A Warming Digestive Tea Recipe for Late Winter
This Ayurvedic tea blend is designed to stimulate digestion, clear mucus, and provide gentle warmth during Kapha season.
🌿 Ingredients:
1 cup hot water
½ tsp grated fresh ginger
½ tsp cinnamon
Pinch clove
Pinch black pepper
½ tsp honey (optional, added after cooling slightly)
☕ Instructions:
Bring the water to a boil.
Add the spices and let steep for 5 minutes.
Strain and sip warm, adding honey once the tea has cooled slightly.
Drink morning and evening to support digestion and gently balance Kapha.
Final Reflections: Preparing for Spring with Intention
Late winter is not the time for an abrupt detox—instead, it’s a moment to gently prepare, release, and align with nature’s cycles.
By incorporating these small daily shifts, you’ll begin to feel lighter, clearer, and more energized when spring fully arrives. Take this time to nurture your body, mind, and spirit, and set intentions for the renewal ahead. 🌸
Stay tuned for details about our upcoming Spring Renewal Ayurveda Workshop and to learn more Ayurveda rituals to guide you through the seasons, in particular the time between winter to spring!
👉 What’s one Ayurvedic ritual you’ll try this season? Share in the comments below! 💛
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