a soft landing

ayurveda series

a soft landing

how to release summer's heat and enter the next season with greater reserves

written by june, moondog yoga

summer's heat, humidity, longer days, increased activity, and extra time outdoors depletes a body over time.

late summer is a turning point. the seasonal shift is already happening around us. notice the quality of light in late august. the days may still be hot, but the light begins to change -- still bright, but with a softness around the edges. the mornings and evenings feel subtly different. the quality of the air begins shifting.

nature is beginning to turn inward. we can do the same. it's time to release the heat and nourish the body. turn to foods that can help release excess heat while also rebuilding nourishment. remember though, cooling doesn't mean cold.

the body will gradually release the intensity of summer so that we enter the next season with greater reserves.

recipes for a soft landing

here are a few recipes that are especially lovely for this transition -- foods that help us let the heat out while beginning to nourish and ground the body.

🍑 late-summer stewed fruit

gently cooked seasonal fruit can be a wonderful bridge between summer and fall. try peaches, nectarines, plums, pears, or apples depending on what's available. simmer gently with a little water and warming, aromatic spices such as cardamom or cinnamon. enjoy warm or at room temperature.

why now? it offers the sweetness and hydration of late summer while introducing the warmth and softness that will become increasingly supportive as vata season approaches.

🍚 nourishing rice bowl

a simple bowl of rice, cooked seasonal vegetables, fresh herbs, and a nourishing fat can be an easy transition meal.

try combining: rice + zucchini or squash + greens + herbs + ghee or olive oil.

keep it simple. late summer doesn't need complicated food. sometimes the most nourishing meal is the one that allows the body to rest while it digests.

🥤 chia seed pudding (my new personal favorite)

in a jar combine 2 tablespoons chia seeds and 1 cup whole milk -- for an alternative milk, substitute almond or coconut milk. add any or all of the following: 1 heaping teaspoon sweet spice mix (1/2 teaspoon powdered ginger, 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon, 1/4 teaspoon cardamom), a sweetener (maple syrup or a sugar substitute -- not honey, it's heating), and perhaps a splash or 2 of vanilla extract.

put in a jar and shake. let sit overnight in the fridge. enjoy!

i remove my jar from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before i eat it -- cooling, not cold ;)

want to go deeper into seasonal ayurveda? june's ayurvedic fall rejuvenation course begins september 24 -- registration closes september 16. learn more and register.