Refresh Your Body and Mind
Ayurvedic Spring Clean:
Spring is the season of renewal—a time when nature wakes up, sheds the heaviness of winter, and blossoms with fresh energy. In Ayurveda, spring is associated with Kapha dosha (earth + water elements), which can manifest as sluggishness, congestion, lethargy, or weight gain if not balanced. A gentle seasonal cleanse helps restore lightness, clarity, and vitality.
Why Cleanse in Spring?
Winter’s heavier foods and slower rhythms often lead to a build-up of Kapha qualities: heaviness, stagnation, and excess mucus. An Ayurvedic spring clean aims to:
- Clear toxins (ama) from the body
- Awaken digestion and metabolism (agni)
- Rebalance the doshas for the warmer months
- Re-energise the mind and spirit
Key Principles of an Ayurvedic Spring Clean
- Light, Warming Foods
- Favour steamed greens, bitter vegetables, whole grains (such as quinoa, millet, and barley), and legumes.
- Use warming spices—such as ginger, turmeric, black pepper, cumin, and cinnamon—to stimulate digestion.
- Reduce dairy, heavy meats, fried, or oily foods.
- Morning Detox Rituals
- Tongue scraping to remove toxins.
- Warm lemon or ginger water to kickstart digestion.
- Gentle self-massage (abhyanga) with light oils like mustard or sunflower, followed by a warm shower.
- Movement & Breath
- Invigorating practices like sun salutations, brisk walks, or dynamic yoga help shake off winter heaviness.
- Breathing practices (pranayama) like Kapalabhati or Bhastrika stimulate energy and clear congestion.
- Simplified Eating (Kitchari Cleanse Option)
- A few days of eating kitchari (mung dal + rice + spices) gives the digestive system a rest while nourishing deeply.
- Add steamed greens and light herbal teas (like cumin-coriander-fennel or tulsi) to support detoxification.
- Mental & Emotional Renewal
- Spring cleaning isn’t just physical—clear mental clutter with meditation, journaling, or digital detox.
- Set intentions for the new season with clarity and lightness.
Gentle Herbal Supports
- Trikatu (ginger, black pepper, long pepper) to boost digestion.
- Triphala to support gentle cleansing and elimination.
- Tulsi (Holy Basil) tea for respiratory health and mental clarity.
An Ayurvedic spring clean doesn’t have to be extreme. It’s about aligning with nature’s rhythms, simplifying, and creating space for new energy. Even a few small changes—like switching to lighter meals, moving more, and practising mindful rituals—can bring balance and vitality this season.