Many are delighted when the dark chill of winter transitions
into the lighter and warmer season of early spring. As the
days begin to lengthen, everything seems more alive. People,
plants and places are more vibrant, cheery and colorful. We
are able to witness the season's final snowfall and as it
melts we can delight in the new growth and blossoming life
it has encouraged.

As this milder season approaches we hear more of the
refreshing sound of chirping birds and begin to see more
budding flowers awaiting adequate sunlight so they can
attain their perfect moment to bloom. The dry, cold winter
air dissipates and gentler, warmer and moister air surrounds
us.

And although the junction of seasons sometimes inspires a
sort of natural magic, in Ayurveda, this time of changes is
often one that causes a rise in illnesses and imbalances.
However, like the uninterrupted flow of changing seasons, we
can transition from winter to spring with similar harmony.
If you prepare now, you can enjoy perfect health as this
seasonal transition passes.

Below you will find some simple suggestions for achieving or
maintaining your natural state of balance:

- If you have packed on extra pounds while retreating to the
solace of a warm home and heavy, winter comfort foods, now
is the time to shed them. Adapt your diet to a lighter,
less-caloric variation and take on more activity. Walking is
a perfect and safe way for almost anyone to begin an
exercise regimen. So put on weather-appropriate gear and get
started. If you have an exercise routine, lengthen it… take
the dog for a longer walk than usual, take the stairs rather
than the elevator, walk to a local playing field and watch
the kids' games. If nothing else, use the windy, spring
season to go fly a kite.

- If you are feeling heavy or sluggish (mentally or
physically) complete a simple fast. Fasting allows your body
to cleanse so that it is able to work most efficiently. If
you have a sturdy constitution you can fast for one day per
week with vegetable or fruit juice and/or water. If you have
a pre-existing health condition or a history of eating
disorder it is probably best for you to consult a health
practitioner or nutritionist prior to beginning.

- Take Triphala herbal tablets to promote gentle
detoxification and regular bowel movements. Triphala is
safe, nonhabit-forming and effective for daily use.

- Think of the spring as a time for letting go of all the
layers; physical, mental and emotional. Just as you rid your
closet of unnecessary winter clothes, it is ideal to clear
away dull or dark feelings that an introspective winter may
have evoked. To work on this, try an extended retreat, such
as a meditation weekend or yoga workshop. This is likely to
foster an internal environment that allows for more thorough
digestion of your thoughts, feelings and foods. Complete
digestion is absolutely crucial to optimum health.

- Treat yourself to the Ayurvedic cleansing and rejuvenation
regimen of pancha karma. Pancha karma has been used for
centuries to strengthen immunity, reduce stress, slow the
aging process and detoxify the body.