Find Balance This Fall: An Ayurvedic Approach to Routine and Self-Care

As the leaves start to turn and the air gets that crisp, cozy vibe, you might feel a shift in your own energy too. Summer’s long days of sun and adventure have faded, and now fall is inviting us to slow down, reflect, and maybe even return to a routine we let slip during the busy, carefree months. Ayurveda, the ancient Indian system of health and wellness, has a lot to say about how the seasons affect us and why getting back into a steady routine— especially in the fall — can help us feel more grounded, energized, and well, like ourselves again.

Let’s be honest: routines can sometimes feel like a drag. Who wants to be tied to a schedule when life is already so hectic? But Ayurveda sees routine differently. Instead of feeling restrictive, routines can actually bring a sense of freedom by helping you find balance. In Ayurvedic wisdom, fall is a time when the dosha called Vata (made up of air and ether) tends to dominate. Vata energy is light, airy, and creative, but when it’s out of balance, it can leave us feeling scattered, anxious, or depleted. Sound familiar? That’s why routines — especially ones that feel nourishing — are so helpful during this season. They bring us back to feeling more grounded and less like a leaf blowing in the wind. 

So how do you add one more thing to your to do list?

Returning to Routine Is Actually Simple

Returning to routine in the fall doesn’t mean you need to overhaul your whole life. Small, intentional changes can make a big difference, and the best part is that it’s all about making you feel more at ease, more joyful, and more connected to yourself again. Here are a few easy ways to weave Ayurvedic wisdom into your fall routine and feel more in sync with the season.

Let’s Talk About Mornings

We all know how easy it is to grab your phone the moment you wake up and start scrolling (we’ve all been there). But Ayurveda suggests switching it up by starting your day with a little “me time” that feels grounding. Try sipping on warm water with lemon to kickstart your digestion, and maybe sneak in a few deep breaths or stretches to gently wake up your body and mind. It doesn’t have to be a big production — just a few moments to yourself before the busyness of the day kicks in. Imagine feeling calm and centered before you’ve even opened your emails.

Then, There’s Food

Fall is basically soup and stew season, and Ayurveda is all for that. In fact, fall is the perfect time to embrace warm, nourishing foods that ground you and calm Vata energy. Think hearty soups, stews, roasted veggies, and warm grains. Root vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots, and beets are especially great because they’re grounding and full of the cozy, earthy vibes that balance Vata. Spices such as ginger, cinnamon, and turmeric also help warm up the body from the inside out. So go ahead, lean into those comforting meals— they’re not only delicious but perfect for keeping you balanced as the weather gets cooler. And maybe skip the extra-large iced coffee (your digestion will thank you).

Let’s Not Forget About Sleep

As the days get shorter, sleep can become a bit of a challenge, especially if you find yourself feeling restless or having a million thoughts racing through your mind. That’s Vata energy at work again. Creating a simple, calming bedtime routine can make all the difference in helping you unwind. Try turning off screens about an hour before bed (yes, that means the Netflix marathon), and instead, do something relaxing like reading or stretching. Ayurveda also loves the practice of Abhyanga, which is a warm oil self-massage that not only feels amazing but also calms your nervous system. It’s like giving yourself a warm, cozy hug before bed.

Are You Starting to Feel Ready for Fall?

Staying active is important too, but in the fall, Ayurveda suggests focusing on gentler, more grounding forms of movement. So instead of going all out with intense workouts, try something that’s a bit more soothing like yoga, walking or stretching. These types of activities help keep you moving without overwhelming your body or your mind. Picture yourself taking a peaceful walk through a park with crunchy leaves underfoot or doing a few slow yoga poses at home — it’s all about keeping things mellow and steady, which helps counter the erratic energy of Vata.

The Magic of Consistency

I know, it might sound counterintuitive, but creating a little structure in your day can actually lead to more freedom in how you feel. When you have a routine that supports your body’s natural rhythms, you’re not just going through the motions—you’re giving yourself the tools to feel more present, more energized, and more joyful. And that’s what Ayurveda is all about: helping you tune into what your body needs so you can feel vibrant and alive, even during those busy or stressful times.

So, as fall invites us to slow down and reconnect, why not give these simple Ayurvedic practices a try? You don’t need to make huge changes — just a few tweaks to your day that help you feel more grounded and balanced. My Ayurvedic doctor says 51 percent will get you moving in the right direction. By returning to a routine that aligns with the season, you’ll find yourself moving through fall with more ease, more joy, and more freedom. It might just be the perfect reset you’ve been looking for!