Ayurvedic Strategies to Kickstart Your Writing Routine

As writers, we know that there's no "one size fits all" approach to getting the job done. There’s just the idea in our head and the blank page in front of us. However, over the centuries, various tools and techniques have been developed, tested, and refined by writers who have experimented with what works and what doesn't. 

As a devoted yogi and practitioner of Ayurveda, I have come to realize that the time-honored practice of Ayurveda goes hand in hand with writing, because the writer’s life is all about routine. As a writer, you’re the one who sets yourself up for success, so if you don’t hold yourself accountable, no one will.

From a personal standpoint, I can attest to the wisdom that comes with age, specifically the benefits of waking up early. For a few months there, I would naturally wake up around 5:00 in the morning, but would force myself back to sleep because I thought…come on! However, every time I gave in to the half-baked temptation of going back to sleep and waking up to the bleeps of my sensible 7AM alarm, I would feel grumpy, drowsy, and utterly useless throughout the day. On the other hand, when I dared to embrace that early 5AM wake-up call, I would feel energized and accomplish so much before 10AM.

All of this made me reflect on the ancient practice of Ayurveda, as I realized that my body's natural alarm was waking me up during what is known as Vata time - i.e. the creative time of day. It suddenly made sense that my subconscious was providing me with a jump start to the day.

What Is Ayurveda?

Ayurveda, often regarded as the sister science of yoga, is an ancient Indian healing practice that translates to "life science" from the original Sanskrit (ayus= life, veda = science or knowledge). The purpose behind Ayurveda is to find balance within the mind, body and environment. A practice which comes in handy since we spend so much time dealing with the many stressors life throws our way. 

When it comes to establishing a healthy and achievable writing routine, Ayurveda can provide insights based on the Ayurvedic doshas. The doshas are three energies composed of five elements (earth, air, water, fire, and ether) that occur at different times of the day.

Vata dosha, composed of Air and Ether elements, is often associated with the quality of creativity, making vata-time the optimal period for writers to wake up according to Ayurveda.

Pitta dosha, composed of Fire and Water elements, is often associated with the quality of an energetic and driven attitude according to Ayurveda.

Kapha dosha, composed of Water and Earth elements, is often associated with the qualities of protection, nourishment, and stability according to Ayurveda.

Breaking Down the Day for Writers with Ayurveda:

• Vata Time: 2–6AM and 2–6PM 
  Vata dosha is governed by the elements of air and ether, which create space for new ideas to flow. During this time of day, creativity and expansive thinking tend to peak, making it an opportune moment to engage in creative pursuits and open the mind.
  
  My writing routine:
  During morning Vata time, I wake up at 5 AM and settle into my routine with meditation and an hour-long yoga practice. I set myself up for success by doing the basics: making my bed, taking a shower, and choosing an outfit that makes me feel ready to seize the day. During afternoon Vata time, I take notes and jot down all the natural creative ideas that seem to flow effortlessly at that time of day. I don't judge, I just take notes wherever I may be. This is probably why I'm not a journal keeper but a big fan of smartphone applications like the Notes app, which keeps everything synced across all my devices.

• Kapha Time: 6–10 AM and 6–10 PM
  When practicing Ayurveda, we learn that waking up before Kapha time is crucial for a productive and energized day, as sleeping well into Kapha time can leave us feeling sluggish, mucky and heavy. This is because Kapha is governed by the elements of earth and water, which, when combined, create mud.
  
  My writing routine:
  My morning Kapha time is reserved for personal chores, while the evening Kapha time is dedicated to winding down the day. This includes making dinner, reading a book, or watching something on TV avoiding overstimulation. Most importantly, I make sure that around 9:00 PM all electronic devices are out of sight and out of mind, allowing my brain to register that sleep time is coming up.

• Pitta Time: 10–2 AM and 10–2 PM
  The time of day when we tend to be most productive is ruled by Pitta, creating literal steam by combining the elements of fire and water. It's the time when we feel that "Go-go-go" sensation, and this fiery attitude also applies to the evening, which is why it's crucial to wind down before evening Pitta time (i.e., shut off your devices and go to sleep). Otherwise, you may experience a second wind and stay up well into the wee hours of the morning.
  
  My writing routine:
  My morning Pitta time is when I dedicate myself to daily writing, no matter what, while my evening Pitta time is reserved for sleep.

So, if you find yourself stuck with a million ideas to write but limited execution, perhaps it's time to rethink your routine - or even start one. It took me a long time to find a routine that worked for me, so keep trying until you find the one that gives you the discipline to show up to the page every single day.