Ask Dr. Apte - Weekly Discussion

 Q: Rough, dry patches have begun appearing on my feet, and I never have dry skin.  I’m a 43 year-old woman with a constitution of pitta/kapha.  I follow an Ayurvedic diet and lifestyle (as prescribed).  What could be causing this and what suggestions can you give me, please? 

A: It is exactly as the saying goes. 'As above, so below'. What is happening in Mother Nature happens in our body too. Vata is dominating right now in the Fall. Leaves are falling, trees are drying. These effects reflect in our bodies. Rough, dry patches on your feet are because of Vata aggravation in the body.

There could be following reasons:

• You are 43 - slowly but surely, you are going into Vata life cycle, that means Vata starts showing some signs.
• Is your work more stressful these days? It may aggravate Vata.
• You mentioned that you are Pitta/Kapha and are following Ayurvedic life style as prescribed. You may be focusing on eating dry, light (Kapha balancing) and cold foods (for your Pitta in Summer). Remember, Ayurveda is a dynamic balance, not a stationary one. There is one unchanging truth about our life – it is "CHANGE". Nature changes constantly and we need to change with Nature. I think, you need some fine tuning in your life style.

Try massaging your body with sesame oil or Vata oil, twice or three times a week. Leave the oil on for 15- 20 minutes and then take a warm shower.  Cut down some dry and cold foods (Kapha and Pitta balancing respectively). As a matter of fact if Pittas want to eat some spicy foods, fall is the season to do that. Get your revised Ayurvedic prescription of the Fall season, and enjoy the Holidays.