Spring is HERE!

"An email from the Pacific Coast Farmers' Market Association (PCFMA) inspired me to write this article!"

“Spring is here”, the days are getting longer, the weather is warming up, and our local farms are overflowing with delicious, fresh produce!

According to Ayurveda, aligning your diet with nature’s rhythms can strengthen immunity, balance your imbalances, and even help prevent seasonal allergies. You can do this by visiting your local farmers’ market and buying freshly harvested fruits and vegetables that retain their natural prana, providing optimal nutrition, digestion support and seasonal balance.

In spring, the cool and damp weather can lead to extra mucus, a stuffy nose, and slow digestion. To help balance this, it's best to eat fresh and light foods, such as leafy greens, citrus fruits, and root vegetables. These foods can help keep your body feeling clear and full of energy.

Eating fresh, farm-grown food is good for your health because it's full of "prana," or life energy. According to Ayurveda, our digestion changes with the seasons, and eating fresh, seasonal foods helps our bodies digest better, absorb nutrients more easily, and feel more energetic overall.

Farmers' market produce is fresher because it’s picked when it’s fully ripe and has more vitamins, antioxidants, and better flavor in every bite.

Ayurveda is not only about taking care of your health; it’s about living in balance with nature. When you shop at your local farmers' market:

• You help the environment by reducing the need for food to travel long distances.

• You support local farmers who grow fresh, chemical-free food.

• You promote a healthy lifestyle by getting food directly from its source.

Spring Cleanse: Nourishing Foods to Boost Immunity and Support Digestion

Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Arugula, Mustard Greens) – Perfect for cleansing and bringing balance

Citrus Fruits (Oranges, Lemons, Grapefruits) – Rich in vitamin C, these support immunity and reduce inflammation.

Spring Vegetables (Asparagus, Peas, Radishes, Fava Beans) – Light, bitter, and astringent to keep digestion strong.

Fresh Herbs & Spices (Ginger, Turmeric, Mint, Mustard Seeds) – Help clear congestion and stimulate digestion.

A visit to the local farmers market helps one to connect with your food, community and earth’s natural cycles!

Ayurveda teaches us that food is medicine, but only when consumed in the right season and in the freshest form. This spring, embrace the healing power of nature by choosing locally grown, seasonal foods from your farmers' market.

Your body will feel lighter, your immunity will be stronger, and your taste buds will thank you!

Here is a simple recipe, try it!

Digestive Herbal Tea (Best for Clearing Congestion)

Ingredients:

• 1-inch ginger, sliced

• ½ tsp turmeric powder

• 1 tsp fresh mint leaves

• ½ tsp mustard seeds

• 2 cups water

Instructions:

1. Boil all ingredients in water for 5 minutes.

2. Strain and sip warm.