There’s something undeniably magical about traveling in autumn. The light is softer, the crowds thinner, and the landscapes — whether you’re walking through a forest in Vermont, a vineyard in Tuscany, or a temple garden in Kyoto — are putting on their most spectacular show. But autumn travel comes with its own physical challenges: the dry air on long-haul flights, the temperature swings between climates, the relentless pace of a packed itinerary. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of seasonal wellness, has been managing exactly this kind of transition for thousands of years, and its wisdom translates beautifully to life on the road.
The dry air and wind impacts not only the trees but our bodies as well, drying out our skin, eyes, hair and even bowel movements. Days begin to get shorter, yet activity often gets busier as school begins and holidays approach. More stress, less time, and more dryness. At a time of year when you want to look and feel your best, you are prone to dry skin, short temper and stress? Yes, but if we look to Ayurveda, we see how a seasonal change can easily be managed, leaving our bodies happy, balanced and comfortable.
The practice of abhyanga, or warm oil massage is perfect for this time of year. It is a full body oil massage that you give yourself, or you can utilize the talents of an Ayurvedic practitioner. The warm oil helps soothe the season’s dryness and cold, and not only will your skin feel better, but you will also feel a better sense of full-body balance. If you’re staying somewhere with a spa, ask if they offer abhyanga — it’s increasingly available at wellness-focused hotels and retreats across Asia, Europe, and the US.
As the season transitions, you will notice your diet needs shift as well. Some of this is influenced by locally available foods or subtle cravings for things to bring your body warmth, moisture and comfort. Hearty soups, hot cereals, meats and eggs, which are full of nutrients to keep your immune system fighting strong, begin to replace light fruits and raw vegetables. Savory spices are used freely.
Five portions of fruit and vegetables a day are a must. Look out for seasonal favorites, including pumpkins, carrots and sweet potatoes which are rich sources of beta carotene, helping to boost immunity. Fresh mushrooms are another great option: they are rich in protein and contain powerful anti-viral chemicals and cholesterol-reducing compounds.
And don’t forget apples and blackberries – they make the perfect combination for a healthy autumn pie. Buy organic whenever you can. It is more likely to have been locally grown so chances are the fruit will be fresher and retain more nutrients.
At farmers markets abroad, autumn is peak season — one of the great pleasures of fall travel is discovering how different cultures celebrate the same harvest.
Your body is seeking warmth and grounding in ways beyond food as well, including loving relationships, the stability of routines, warm environments and slow, gentle exercises.
All of these practices are beneficial whether you follow an Ayurvedic lifestyle or not. A seasonal routine helps your body stay in balance, which in turn gives you better body function and more restful sleep, which then reduces stress and leads to more comfort. It is a complete and beautiful cycle. Just like the leaves on the trees.
Breathe in the freshness of the autumn air (and all its Vata energy), and with it gain more energy. Let go of what you don’t need any more: donate, sell or repurpose what you can, and clear space in your home, heart and life for future changes and growth. Wrap yourself in the colors of the season, a warm orange scarf, a bowl of squash soup, a roaring fire, and enjoy the change of the leaves as you stroll through the trees on an October morning.
Whether you’re road-tripping through New England for the foliage, exploring a European Christmas market in its earliest days, or finally taking that solo retreat you’ve been promising yourself, pack the warm scarf, order the squash soup, and take the morning walk through the falling leaves. Your body and your soul will thank you for it!