There’s nothing better than the gift of delicious food during Thanksgiving. The meal is what gathers family and friends together for a time to connect. Whether you’re graced with the task of preparing the entire meal or just a single culinary creation, embark on the mission with fall in mind.

In Ayurveda, fall is called “vata” season. Think of vata like a dry, crispy leaf being taken for a ride by the wind. And because we are a part of nature, the vata season can have a similar effect on us!

Below are vibrant, easy-to-prepare dishes that are particularly helpful for counterbalancing fall. They cultivate the rootedness and grounding that we’re looking for and leave out the meat and dairy that’s hard on our systems. Slow down, open up your senses and let your love pour into the food!

Fresh & Festive Thanksgiving Menu

Beverage

Spiced Pumpkin Chai

Main

Quinoa Salad with

Corn and Pumpkin Seeds

Sauce

Raw Cranberry Sauce

Side

Sweet Maple-Whipped Potatoes

Without mindful attention given to what’s occurring this time of year we can become vulnerable to internal imbalance. Dry skin, static hair, constipation, anxiety, cold hands, cold toes and feeling down in the dumps are all signs of this imbalance.

You might notice that while the leaves are falling and you’re adding extra layers of clothes and the cutest boots of the season, the foods that sound the best are thick soups, potatoes, root vegetables and warm, sweet drinks like hot cocoa or apple cider. These heavy, nourishing, warm foods are what counterbalance the crisp, wispy chill in the air outside. They keep us rooted and grounded so we don’t get whisked away by the wind.

Happy holidays!

Namaste,

Ashley

Want to dig a littler deeper? Click here for more information on the Ayurveda lifestyle.

Ashley Pitman is a fresh and authentic voice that brings potent ancient wisdom to the dinner table – as something the entire family can understand, embrace and enjoy. She supports thousands of people in crafting a thriving day-to-day experience that’s in favor of their best work – we’re talkin’ raw foods, ayurveda, cleansing, life-enhancing relationships, yoga, meditation, conscious business, and community. For tons of free valuable content visit her blog or sign up for the free weekly newsletter.