The Art of Being: A Holistic Approach To Slowing Down This Fall
As we move deeper into fall, it’s hard not to feel the pull of busyness around us. The back-to-school season is in full swing, holidays are approaching, and for many, it’s a time of year filled with endless to-do lists and commitments. But with all of this motion comes the risk of aggravating Vata dosha, which governs movement and activity in Ayurveda.
This constant go-go energy, especially in fall, can heighten Vata imbalances — leading to feelings of anxiety, overwhelm, and even physical symptoms like dry skin, digestive issues, or insomnia. That’s why this season, more than ever, it’s important to focus on the art of BEing rather than DOing.
Why Fall Is A Vata-Aggravating Season
In Ayurveda, fall is characterized by qualities that align with Vata dosha: cold, dry, and mobile. When we experience an increase in these elements externally, they tend to show up internally as well. That’s why many people feel more scattered, anxious, or overwhelmed as the temperature drops and the leaves start to fall.
And when you combine these Vata qualities with a hectic schedule — think holiday planning, year-end work deadlines, and the pressure to stay productive — it can easily send your body and mind into overdrive. That’s why slowing down and embracing more grounding practices can be especially important this time of year.
Why Rest & Stillness Matter
We live in a culture that celebrates productivity and doing. But the truth is, true wellness isn’t just about getting things done; it’s about knowing when to pause and simply be. Taking time for rest, stillness, and reflection helps restore balance and allows your body to recharge. It’s not just about avoiding burnout; it’s about maintaining clarity, inner calm, and focus. When we stop rushing from one task to the next and allow ourselves moments of being, we ground ourselves in the present moment, which naturally calms Vata’s tendency toward scattered energy.
Practical Tips For BEing This Fall
Here are a few simple ways to invite more intention into your life this season:
Mindful Morning Routine: Start your day more slowly. Instead of rushing out of bed and into your tasks, take a few minutes for deep breathing, journaling, or simply sitting with a cup of tea. This helps you stay grounded throughout the day.
Create Time for Reflection: Carve out intentional time to rest, whether that’s a quiet walk in nature or simply sitting in silence. It might feel indulgent, but it’s a key part of balancing the busyness of this season.
Limit Multitasking: Try focusing on one task at a time. Vata thrives on overstimulation, and multitasking can leave you feeling more scattered. Single-tasking will help bring more calm and clarity to your day.
Grounding Practices: Incorporate yoga, breathwork, or even meditation into your routine. These activities help center your energy, making it easier to stay balanced as the world around you speeds up.
Here’s one of my favorite meditations to help you stay grounded this season:
As we continue through this busy season, I encourage you to embrace the power of simply being. Slowing down, staying grounded, and allowing moments of rest are some of the most effective ways to balance the heightened Vata energy around us. Instead of getting swept up in the rush, try creating space for stillness — and watch how it transforms your sense of well-being.