Written by Dr Demeter
Photos by Jessica Cherrett and Emily Samuels-Ballantyne
Starting in the sacred circle a group of intentional women convened at Magical Farm to take part in the Autumn Yoga, Ayurvedic Food and Herbalism retreat two. We shared our intentions for the day and reason for being present. A theme that came up was ‘taking some time’ as well as a moment to reflect on ways our individual lives can be lived in a holistic way. We then took part in an hour yin yoga class in the big tent, and finished with some breathing exercises. Autumn is an important time in Ayrveda to focus on the large intestine and lungs. So the yoga practice supported poses for the digestive system and the lung region. The breathing exercises we used as a way to ‘let go’ of anything that we need our bodies to release - as the leaves drop to the ground and let go of their excess, we also are going through the same process.
Following the yoga we moved onto food! We fermented some Kim chi with some beautiful organic local produce - and reflected on the Ayurvedic benefits from these foods. India is one of the only counties in the world who include ferments in their ‘national nutritional recommendations’. Very important food for the digestive system. Then as our Ayurvedic designed lunch was prepared Jess Cherrett began her herbalism workshop. We were so lucky to receive so much wisdom from her. Throughout the herbalism workshop we learnt how to make a heart tonic with Hawthorne, rose and elderberries, a cough syrup filled with natures goodies for the winter season, lip balm to keep our lips lubricated during the winter time and a fire cider to support our immune systems.
We had many discussions about ways herbs can support health and how they are so important for people to connect to so they can empower us to take care of our own bodies.
Autumn sees the decline of the pitta dosha and the rise of the vata dosha. As the fire element of summer gives way, the air element of autumn comes to the fore. Prana, the vital breath, is everywhere. To balance vata (dry, cool, windy, irregular and light), it is important to cultivate —wet, warm, sheltered, grounded, heavy, slow and regular. Our retreat enabled a nourishing moment in time to convene together as community in our ‘new shelter @ Magical Farm’ (still to be completed cob house from the natural building retreat one!) and connect to nature wisdom in herbalism, yoga and food to support ourselves in this season and into the winter.
If you are interested to attend our Winter workshop please be in touch via our email info@magicalfarm.org
Please see our groups research and sharing from the day at this SHARE link.
