How to create balance as Daylight Savings Time comes to an end

As Daylight Savings time approaches its end and the days become increasingly shorter, it often feels as though we are living in total darkness. Most of us are leaving to go to work while it's still dark out, and driving home well after the sun sets. Ayurveda considers the circadian rhythm to be an important factor in staying balanced. During this time of transition, there are a few adjustments we can make based on our circadian rhythm in order to create balance in our daily routine.

Which doshas rule the 24 hour clock:

• 2am-6am: Vata
• 6am-10am: Kapha
• 10am-2pm: Pitta
• 2-6pm: Vata
• 6-10pm: Kapha
• 10pm-2am: Pitta

Taking this into consideration and some additional factors, we have a few tips to help you ease into this time change.

1. Wake up on time

When the alarm goes off and it is pitch black outside, it can be extremely difficult to wake up in the morning. As tempting as it is to hit snooze, waking up on time can set the energy and tone for the rest of your day. Since morning time is the transition from Vata to Kapha, it is important to harness the Vata energy before 6am. Waking up during Vata time (before sunrise) gives us a daily boost because we rise in the energy of movement.

2. Get outside when the sun is out

Ideally during peak Pitta time between 10am and 2pm when the sun is at its highest. Daylight positively affects your energy and serotonin levels. The sun is also a great source of Vitamin D, which is necessary for calcium absorption and promoting healthy bones and teeth. Vitamin D also plays a role in supporting immune, brain and nervous system health.

3. Stimulate your Kapha

Kapha is the dosha that is most prone to the effects of time change. You can balance your Kapha with herbs like cloves, pepper, juniper, eucalyptus and ginger. Drinking Kapha pacifying teas and using Kapha oils can also help ease the effects of the time change.

4. Drink plenty of water and eat plenty of veggies

During this time of year, we tend to seek out heartier and heavier meals which can balance a Vata type, but in excess can cause an increase in the Kapha dosha. This can cause feelings of heaviness and fatigue. Balance out your heartier meals with lightly cooked vegetables and be sure to drink plenty of water. Water is essential for all bodily functions, but is especially important during this time as it will help remove waste and toxins from the body, support brain function and regulate body temperature.

5. Ground yourself

During times of change, it is important to ground yourself and find ways to connect with your body and the earth. Simple practices such as yoga, meditation, and walking can help you feel more connected to your body and mind

6. Take Ashwagandha+

Ashwagandha is an ancient medicinal herb traditionally used as an adaptogen to help manage stress. HANAH Ashwagandha+ is made from the purest, quality ingredients so it is easily absorbed by the body. It can help balance all bodily systems and will adapt to wherever your body needs it most. It is also known for supporting longevity and improving muscle mass, strength and endurance.

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