Winter is the time when the Kapha principle is most active. Early spring is the time when the Pitta principle is getting more active (reaching its highest level in the summer). Too much Kapha in the body in the springtime can increase or trigger different symptoms. That is why we often experience colds, coughs, sinus problems etc in this time of the year. It can also influence our digestive fire (Agni) and metabolism which can get less powerful. As a result we can suffer from spring fatigue, feel slow and tired or even depressed.

Thus, in this time of the year it is reasonable to take food that is not increasing Kapha and is helping to strengthen the digestive power. The main (warm) meal should be preferably eaten at the lunch time, because the digestive power is then the greatest. Besides that it's important to spend time outdoors and to get enough exercise, to keep the body moving and the mind refreshed.

A good way to activate digestion and metabolism is Kapha tea (see recipe below). Avoid cold drinks and take food which is not too heavy, rich or oily. Use less milk and cheese products (increases Kapha in the body and is hard to digest). Eat light and warm(ing) foods, as fresh as possible. Prefer more bitter, pungent and astringent tastes and less sweet, salty and sour tastes. Leafy green vegetables (spinach, collards etc) are perfect for this time of the year. Amazing how what we need the most in a specific season is often what the Nature provides, we just need to stay tuned in:)