You work away during the spring and summer, and everything rolls smoothly. Then September arrives, and suddenly, everything feels too much; the days don’t seem to have enough hours to fit all the tasks. A sense of stress develops. You start doubting yourself, wondering why you get so stressed. But it isn’t just you; this seasonal shift affects us all.

Have you ever wondered why the cooler months make you feel more scattered or anxious?

The Reason Why We Experience Stress More in the Autumn

As the warmth of summer gives way to the cooler, windier days of autumn, the qualities of air and space begin to dominate, leading to an increase in Vata energy within us.

During the autumn and winter months, the mind is particularly affected. Vata dosha, the space and air elements, dominates these months. It governs the nervous system, and not coincidentally, our mind is primarily made up of these elements. That makes our mind particularly susceptible to Vata dosha and its imbalances.

The vast and empty qualities of the space element affect our mind; there is no structure to the mind. The mobile quality of the air element lets our thoughts move super quickly from here to there. One moment, we think about what to eat, and the next minute, we lie on the beach in Bali.

The flurry of thoughts brings unrest to our minds. This unrest leads to feeling overwhelmed, indecisive and, eventually, stressed.

In Ayurveda, the mind has its own constitution. If the mind is Vata dominant, the autumn/wintertime will be more turbulent. In the case of a Pitta-dominant mind, its heat and intensity can lead to more activity and mobility as heat creates movement; think about the movement of the air above the fire.

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Herbs and Spices to Balance the Mind

There are several ways to calm the Vata dosha of the mind.

Food is always the first port of call to bring change. The autumn harvest is naturally Vata calming. The abundance of root vegetables and grains is excellent for grounding the mind, just as warming spices like cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and cardamom. They not only enhance the flavour of dishes but also aid in grounding the light and mobile qualities of Vata. Rosemary and thyme can be used in soups and stews for warming and grounding. Chamomile, lavender, lemon balm and valerian are used for their calming effect.

There are excellent herbs that directly affect the mind.

How to Use Ashwagandha for Stress Relief

Benefits of Brahmi for a Calm Mind

You might ask yourself, why mention it if it is not suitable?

If Ashwagandha is not suitable for the Pitta-dominant constitution because of its heating nature, in this case, Brahmi comes in. Brahmi also reduces stress and calms the nervous system, but is cooling instead of heating, which makes it ideal for Pitta. Brahmi is excellent if you suffer from headaches or migraines, which are a sign of heat in the body. Brahmi also brings mental clarity, helps with focus and reduces anxiety.

Why Choose Tulsi for Vata Season

Jatamansi: A Sleep-Promoting Herb for All Doshas

Liquorice for Stress and Adrenal Support

How to Use These Herbs?

You might ask, how do I take these herbs?

Fortunately, apart from Tulsi, all the above herbs can go into a cup of hot milk in the evening before bed, so they can work their magic when you sleep.

To make a calming herbal milk, warm a cup of your favourite milk (dairy or plant-based) and stir in half a teaspoon of your chosen herb powder, such as Ashwagandha or liquorice.

Sweeten with half a teaspoon of coconut sugar or a touch of honey for added warmth (avoid honey if you’re using it while hot, as it can become toxic in Ayurveda).

Final Thoughts

As the cooler months settle in, it’s common to feel more scattered or stressed—Vata’s influence is at play. But there are simple ways to help yourself feel more grounded. Incorporating warming foods, spices, and herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Tulsi, Jatamansi, and Licorice into your routine can make a big difference. A warm cup of herbal milk before bed or a daily tea can be a soothing ritual to calm the mind and body. With small, mindful changes, you can find a sense of balance and calm during the Vata season.

Want to read more about Ayurveda?

How to Stay Grounded and Beat Stress this Autumn with Ayurveda’s Vata Balancing Tips

Do you know your Vata from your Pitta?

Get Autumn-Ready with Yoga & Ayurveda

Constipation? Here's What to Do!

Now I’d love to hear from you: Have you noticed that you feel more scattered or stressed during the autumn and winter? Feel free to share your thoughts!

Let’s start a conversation. Leave a message on Instagram, Facebook, or even an old email OR comment below :)

I love hearing from you! 

Katja x

P.S. Of course, establishing healthy eating habits is beneficial through all seasons :)