As we transition into the warmer days of spring, we are simultaneously transitioning into Kapha season. In Ayurveda, the seasons are divided into three; a different dosha governs each: Pitta, Vata, and Kapha. Kapha governs late winter through springtime.

During the transition into springtime, it’s essential to take steps to keep excess Kapha at bay to avoid possible imbalance. Just as the ice from winter begins to melt away, the Kapha we have accumulated during Vata season begins to release in our bodies. This excess Kapha is ideally eliminated, but if we aren’t eating and living in a way that supports this seasonal change, it can lead to symptoms like excess body fluid, feeling sluggish, sticky bowel movements, seasonal allergies, and excess mucus.

Prioritizing proper detoxification is vital to keep Kapha balanced and have a healthy spring season. In addition, supporting the healthy elimination of Kapha and excess moisture from winter helps keep our minds and bodies balanced this time of year. Here are some easy and practical ways to detox your body to support the transition into Kapha season.  

Kapha Balancing Morning Ritual 

Begin your day with a cup of hot water with ginger and honey. Warm water and ginger stimulate the Agni, or digestive fire, which can become sluggish and slow during the springtime. Our Agni is responsible for proper digestion and elimination, and the health of our digestion is essential to avoid a Kapha imbalance and support the body in appropriate detoxification. 

Grate one teaspoon of ginger and add it to your favorite mug. Boil water and pour it over the ginger, allowing it to steep for a few minutes. When the water is at an appropriate drinking temperature, strain the ginger and add one teaspoon of honey. Sip and enjoy.

After your morning beverage, transition into a brief detoxifying yoga sequence. Roll out our Single Harda Ayurvedic Yoga Mat to prepare for your practice. This yoga mat is dyed in Harda and infused with 22 other powerful Ayurvedic herbs that get absorbed into your skin as you move. Harda stimulates Agni, which detoxifies the body and supports healthy elimination. 

Start your practice with a few deep breaths. Then, move forward on your hands and knees to begin moving through a few rounds of cat-cow to stimulate digestion and support mobility of the spine. Inhale, gaze toward the ceiling and drop your belly; on the exhale, press the mat away, round your spine, and gaze toward your navel. Repeat five rounds. 

Come to a seat to transition into Navasana; a core strengthening pose to ignite your digestive fire. Float your legs off the mat at a 90-degree angle; feet pointed, and toes flexed toward your face. Extend your arms in front of you by your sides. Hold and breathe, extending your legs for a challenge. Stay for ten rounds of breath, gently releasing when you’re finished.  

Lie down on your back and bring your knees together in the center of your body. Then, drop both knees to the right and extend your arms out shoulder height on either side, gazing over your left shoulder for a twist. Hold for ten breaths before transitioning to the other side. Twists are excellent postures for detoxing and “wringing out” the organs to clear excess Kapha.

Follow your yoga sequence with a brisk walk, stimulating lymph function and strong digestion. Then, watch how you go through the rest of your day feeling awake and energized.

Kapha Balancing Green Drink 

In Ayurveda, Doshic imbalances are balanced by incorporating certain qualities and tastes. The balancing flavors for Kapha are pungent, bitter, and astringent. The qualities, or gunas, that balance Kapha are hot, fast, sharp, and light. Here is a recipe for an easy green drink that incorporates Kapha balancing and detoxifying elements. 

Green drink

Ingredients: 

• 1 cup dandelion greens 
• 1 cup cilantro 
• 1-inch fresh ginger 
•  1 tsp honey
• 1 tbsp chia seeds
• 2 cups aloe vera juice 

Add all of the ingredients to a high-powered blender. Blend on high for around a minute until everything is well combined and the texture is smooth. Drink immediately after preparing. Enjoy this green drink at least a few times a week for maximum detoxifying benefits.

We hope that these tips encourage a healthy and balanced transition into springtime. Remember to take proper care of your body and honor the cycles of the seasons to enjoy the warmer and longer days to the fullest.