why do we get cold - #36993

Feeling cold more easily than usual, especially when others around you are not experiencing the same, is indeed something to pay attention to. In Ayurveda, this could be related to an imbalance in Vata dosha. Vata is characterized by qualities such as cold, light, dry, and irregular. When Vata becomes aggravated, it can manifest as symptoms like feeling excessively cold, fluctuating energy levels, and poor circulation, which might explain the tingling in your hands and feet.

Let’s explore some practical recommendations.

For diet, focus on incorporating warm, unctuous, and grounding foods that counterbalance Vata’s cold and light qualities. Think of cooked grains like rice or quinoa, root vegetables such as sweet potatoes or carrots, and healthy fats such as ghee or sesame oil. Spices like ginger, cumin, and cinnamon can also support digestion, known as ‘agni’ in Ayurveda, and enhance circulation.

In terms of lifestyle, establish a routine that includes regular meals and consistent sleep patterns. Try incorporating pranayama practices like Nadi Shodhana (alternate nostril breathing), which can help balance energy and promote warmth. Gentle yoga poses like forward folds and twists can be beneficial for circulation.

When it comes to herbal teas, consider warming blends that include ginger, cinnamon, or cardamom – these spices are known for their ability to warm the body and support Vata balance. Ashwagandha can also be useful, as it helps in strengthening and grounding the body while promoting warmth.

For boosting immunity, focus on maintaining a strong digestive fire (agni), as this supports overall health and resilience. This includes eating freshly prepared meals, avoiding cold foods and drinks, and ensuring adequate hydration with warm water or herbal teas.

If symptoms persist or worsen, it’s important to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance and rule out other potential causes that may need immediate attention.

The sensation of feeling cold when others are comfortable might suggest an imbalance in your body’s internal warmth and energy flow. In Siddha-Ayurvedic terms, this can often be associated with an excess Vata dosha. Vata, governed by the air and ether elements, when imbalanced, can lead to coldness in the body, irregular energy levels, and that tingling sensation you mentioned.

Firstly, to address the imbalance, incorporate warming and nourishing foods into your diet that pacify Vata. Focus on cooked meals rather than raw foods. Opt for warm, grounding foods like cooked grains (quinoa, rice), root vegetables (sweet potatoes, carrots), and stews. Include spices such as ginger, cumin, and cinnamon, which can aid digestion and improve circulation.

You mentioned digestion being iffy lately, which could also decrease your inner heat. Try sipping warm ginger tea throughout the day to gently stimulate your digestive fire, or agni. Ginger tea can also help improve blood circulation, which might alleviate the tingling.

Hydration is essential too, but focus on warm liquids. Drink plenty of warm water or herbal teas like tulsi (holy basil) or ashwagandha. These can fortify your system and enhance resistances. Ashwagandha in particular is known for its adaptogenic properties, helping the body cope with stress and potentially strengthening overall vitality.

For external warmth, regular oil massage (abhyanga) using sesame or mustard oil can be beneficial. Unlike coconut oil, these oils have a warming quality and can help keep Vata in check, especially during cold weather.

Incorporate gentle, grounding exercises like restorative yoga or tai chi, focusing on breathwork to enhance circulation and warmth. Remember, routines are crucial in managing Vata, so try to maintain regular sleep, meal, and activity schedules.

If these adjustments don’t help or if symptoms like the tingling persist or worsen, seek further medical evaluation. Conditions like Raynaud’s phenomenon or circulation issues could be at play, and would need attention from a healthcare professional immediately.