Jingle All the AyurWay: Tips for the Holiday from Our CAAM Board

The holiday season is upon us, and while the festive spirit fills the air, so does the hustle and bustle that often accompanies it. In the midst of the chaos, CAAM’s Ayurvedic teachers offer us pearls of wisdom to ensure a season that not only sparkles with joy but also nourishes our minds, bodies, and souls. 

Here’s a heartwarming list of advice from our very own CAAM Board to guide you through a harmonious and health-focused holiday season.

Stock up on the ‘Simplicity Spice’ this Holiday with Jessica Garcia-Scharer

“Buying gifts for everyone, decorating, and setting the stage for everyone to enjoy their holiday is super stressful on top of working and other daily tasks,” says Jessica Garcia-Scharer. Instead of succumbing to the pressure of doing more, buying more, and being more places, Jessica suggests a shift towards simplicity. She encourages the idea of group experiences over individual gifts, potlucks instead of solo hosting, and sharing Ayurvedic recipes that promote balance. 

One especially helpful suggestion is to share your delicious Ayurvedic recipes for baked goods that are low in sugar or warm and hearty soups that balance Vata.  And to create extra connection, which is what the holidays are for, discuss the ingredients and why they are selected with your family.  Jessica shares, “in this fast-paced world of keeping up with the Jones’, I’m hoping to bring some peace to my family and friends so that everyone can enjoy themselves – not just the kids!” 

By embracing these practices, you can bid farewell to the Vata imbalances that often accompany the holiday rush.

A Silent Symphony with Sukhdeep Kaur:

Sukhdeep Kaur advocates for the power of silence to rejuvenate the mind and spirit. “I usually end the year with a 10-day meditation retreat in silence,” she shares. This practice allows her to sit quietly with her thoughts, gaining a fresh perspective and resolution for the coming year. 

By incorporating moments of silence into your holiday routine, you can recharge and refresh, setting the stage for a more centered and mindful new year.

Abhyanga Bliss: Snuggles & Treats by Manju Kolli:

Manju Kolli emphasizes the importance of self-care during the holidays. Her secret? Abhyanga, an Ayurvedic practice of self-massage with warm oils. “I make sure to do my Abhyanga at least twice a week to oleate and make my skin more supple and strong,” she shares. Manju also incorporates exercise, indulges in sweet and unctuous foods (hint, feast on holidays), and spends quality time with family.  Manju recommends board games, snuggles, and movie nights to create a warm and loving atmosphere that complements the nourishing foods and self-care practices, promoting holistic well-being.

Ayurvedic Serenity: Unwrapping Moments of Peace by Anupama Kizhakkeveettil:

Dr. Anu reminds us of the precious skill of being present in the moment. “I value the ability to be in the moment and find peace in each walk of our lives,” she says. This skill, according to Dr. Anu is a source of resilience, fulfillment, and well-being. 

As you navigate the holiday season, embrace each moment with mindfulness and presence, allowing the true essence of the festivities to unfold.

Incorporate these Ayurvedic teachings into your holiday celebrations, and watch as the season transforms into a time of joy, balance, and meaningful connections. 

May your holidays be filled with warmth, love, and the timeless wisdom of Ayurveda. 

By Rupa Raj, CAP