By Gina M. Barrett.
I find that the windy season of spring adds to the challenges we already experience as we navigate the energy vortex here in Crestone. Since I have lived here, the windy season can last about two months. We have been fortunate so far this March. We haven’t had back-to-back days and days of wind. Phew! I’m grateful.
Wind happens when the cold air of winter and the warmer air of spring collide. Wind is necessary to keep the air fresh and clean. However, in an agricultural area like SLV, the wind disrupts and distributes the agricultural field top soil throughout the valley. This soil likely contains residues of fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides.
According to the Chien Chi Tow Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) article “Let’s Find Out – Learning About Wind”:
“When wind enters the body, it is believed to disrupt the smooth flow of Qi, which is the vital energy that circulates throughout the body. Qi is responsible for maintaining the harmonious functioning of organs, tissues, and systems. When the flow of Qi is obstructed or imbalanced, it can lead to symptoms of illness or discomfort.
“Frequent headaches…are often attributed to external wind invading the body and obstructing the flow of Qi in the head. This invasion can occur through exposure to windy weather, drafts, or sudden changes in temperature. The head is considered an area where wind easily accumulates, causing disturbances in the energy flow.”
Ayurvedic teachings tell us, “…the wind is associated with the energetic pattern of the vata dosha. The vata dosha is connected to the elements of air and empty space. This category of energy is related to a number of different physiological processes, including our nervous system, our ability to fall asleep, our creativity, the subtle energy of spiritual practice, the movement of the body, as well as the qualities of being dry and cold, and more. On days when the wind picks up, we may love the feeling of possibility and space that the fresh air brings, yet we may simultaneously feel out of sorts, a bit disturbed, or even a bit anxious.” (Tomasko, 2016)
Lifestyle practices that provide support for the added physical and emotional stress we experience from the wind can include:
~ Apply very grounding earthy smelling essential oils to your feet, neck, chest, wrists, and groin area.
~ Wear ear plugs when it’s windy and you can hear the wind in your home.
~ Hot springs provide a water element and heat, which is calming and warming.
~ Pull your shades down to block visibility of the plant movement outside.
~ Eat grounding foods (roots, and foods with a higher fat content like avocados).
~ Qigong mountain pose – do daily for 10 minutes or as often as you can.
~ Practice yoga nidra and restorative yoga.
~ Stay hydrated.
~ Abhyanga is an ayurvedic oil massage that can be very helpful for grounding the body. You can also do it yourself.
~ Run your air filter when it’s windy. The outside dust can enter through cracks in your home.
~ On that note, keep your home dust free by wet-dusting regularly (weekly or more).
~ Travel to sea level and moist climates. Travel to nearby hot springs. Take lots of baths with oils or take showers to hydrate the skin.
~ Acupuncture, qigong, and reiki are very helpful in balancing energy within the body.
Take excellent care this time of year, stay present and utilize all your Navigating the Vortex self-care practices. See back issues or find them on my website. Wishing you a peaceful spring.
These are suggestions and not meant to be a prescription for your unique individual needs. Practice with awareness and agency. Seek a medical professional to discuss your options. Many of Gina’s suggestions can be found in her free ebook Connection Post Pandemic, 2nd edition of Lighter: Living Tantra.
Citations: www.chienchitow.com/tcm-lets-find-out-learning-about-wind.
www.layoga.com/life-style/ayurveda/weathering-a-windy-day.
Gina M. Barrett, MIA, C-IAYT is an international author, trauma informed yoga therapist, somatic eastern movement educator, and equine therapist. www.ginambarrett.com.