Basics: Welcoming Spring!

February in San Francisco is a 'Ritu Sandhi' or a Seasonal Juncture: the time between winter and spring. In this juncture we start to transition our habits from winter palliation to spring awakening!

Here are a couple points to keep in mind for the month of February:

• Savor the last of winter's hearty produce for soon it'll be spring's naturally cleansing fare of sprouts & greens. So this month enjoy the last of the foods you'll be saying so long to next month: Avocados, Pumpkins, Winter Squash, Tomatoes, Bananas, Dates, Figs, Oranges, Butter & Cheese in moderation, and Nuts & Seeds. 

•  If you're prone to springtime ailments like allergies, water retention and lethargy start to avoid the most aggravating foods for spring: dairy, red meat, nuts, sweeteners (other than honey) and excessively salty foods.
  

• Start to integrate more spring in your step as the sun starts to come up earlier! Wake up early (before sunrise) and start your day with some vigorous exercise to clear your mind and refresh your body for the day ahead!

• Try something new! While routine is great for calming the nervous system in the winter, routine can bog us down in the spring. Try a new class at the Mindful Body, cooking a new recipe, hiking up a mountain for a new view on the world, or making a new friend. Get out and see what this beautiful world has to offer!