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September, the Coldest Month of the Year Write a review!

September Weather

September evenings are full of stillness and the sound of crickets in the dry grass. Evening coolness reminds us that even though we wish summer could last forever, all good things come to a close. Our sandals, shorts and t-shirts are no longer adequate protection against the coming change of seasons, no matter how the warm you feel in afternoons. Be wary of the hot midday sun, which can tempt you to shed too many layers, only to find yourself shivering several hours later. Your body may be as unprepared as your mind for the sudden drops in temperature you'll experience by mid-month. September, then, comes as a surprise and shock to your system. Which means, Ayurvedically, September might as well be the coldest month of the year.

Stamina in September

Your body will be using all available energy to build an insulating layer of fat before the temperatures plummet mid October. Meanwhile, the low humidity of late summer dryness and sweating under the hot midday sun depletes electrolytes. The result is that your blood will be depleted of sugars, fats, fluids and electrolytes throughout August and September. This 'Vata Dryness attacking the Liver and Kidneys' may make your muscles will feel weak and tired, your mind anxious and spacey. You may even suffer from insomnia this time of year, or feel as if your bones are weaker. Any overexertion could make you vulnerable to getting sick. Fortunately, your body will be craving sweeter foods that nourish your blood. If you're Vata, you'll benefit and enjoy following those cravings. Licorice root, dates, and almond milk can help

Seasonal Allergies

Fall seasonal allergies are often related to toxicity in the colon. Dehydration leaves you prone to gas and bloating, signs of fermentation in the digestive tract. The fermentation creates toxicity which is absorbed by your blood, and irritates mucus membranes. One of the best ways to keep your sinuses clear in early fall is to cleanse your colon with enema therapy.

Tomatoes & Peppers

Cravings for tomatoes and red peppers peak as soon as the temperatures start to dip. In synch with your cravings, the tomato and pepper harvest peaks in late summer. These warming foods help rekindle your metabolism after summer laziness. Tomatoes are sour and juicy, quenching a dry palate late August.

September Diet

Strong hunger and robust appetite return in the cool evenings and mornings, but appetite may wane during the hot day. The first week of September, apples, melons, and cantaloupe are appetizing. Their cooling, laxative nature can help purge any residue of summer heat. Your Labor Day barbecue probably contains all the ingredients your body needs to build a layer of protective, insulating fat before winter, including red meat, wheat, and cheese. Sweet potatoes, potatoes, and dairy products provide ample sweet taste as well. By mid September, natural cravings arise for cooked onions and garlic, which will sedate your body into winter hibernation. Select heartier root vegetables and grains, but avoid foods that are too rich in fats.

Favor hearty (ojas building), heavy, gooey, warm, salty & sweet foods, including

• Potatoes, sweet potatoes
• Tomatoes, red peppers
• Cooked onions and garlic
• Oatmeal, rice, tapioca
• Almond, cashew butter, macademia nuts
• Milk, almond milk
• Dates, apple sauce, wild apples
• Chicken, salmon

Avoid bitter, astringent, light, and cold foods.

September Routine

Labor Day, the kids going back to school, and the Jewish holidays can leave your daily routine resembling a roller coaster ride. Avoid making any big plans in September, especially vacations or too many activities. Instead of filling your social calendar, take advantage of the shorter nights to watch a movie or snuggle up with a warm almond chai. A depleted liver can make you feel spaced out, easily scattered and distracted. Avoid any overexertion especially if you're Vata, as your body needs all available energy to prepare for colder months ahead. Kapha people will benefit from a carefree lightness this time of year, and new inspiration.

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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The information and products on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

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