Ashwagandha: The Root of Resilience

Introduction to the plant

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), often called the “Queen of Adaptogens,” has been revered in Ayurvedic traditions for thousands of years. Its name translates to “smell of a horse,” symbolizing the strength and vitality it offers. A deeply grounding and nourishing herb, Ashwagandha embodies winter’s call for restoration and inner resilience, inviting you to soften and relax into your strength.

Energetics & Properties

Energetic Profile:

• Taste: sweet, bitter

• Temperature: warming

• Tension Spectrum: Relaxing; it soothes hypertonic or overstimulated tissues, especially in the nervous system.

• Tissue Tone: Not astringent, but improves tissue tone by nourishing and replenishing weak or depleted tissues.

• Herbal actions: adaptogen, aphrodisiac, immuno-modulator, inflammation modulator, nervine trophorestorative, mild sedative

Winter Relevance

Winter, with its slower pace and colder temperatures, can challenge both physical vitality and emotional steadiness. Ashwagandha offers deep support during this time, aligning perfectly with the Earth Element’s grounding energy and the Water Element’s call for rest and renewal. It helps to:

• An adaptogen, Ashwagandha rebuilds depleted reserves of energy for those who tend toward cold, weakness, and fatigue or for those who are recovering from illness or long term stress.

• Nervine trophorestoratives like Ashwagandha strengthens and restores both the structure and the function of the nervous system. It shines in situations when there’s been prolonged sleep deficit or periods of stress, longstanding anxiety, shock, panic attacks, or excessive use of stimulants. It essentially anchors the mind and body, promoting calm amidst seasonal stillness.

• As an immuno-modulator, Ashwagandha balances and regulates a chronically depleted immune system.

Practical Applications

Herbal Preparations

• Tea: Simmer Ashwagandha root in milk or water for a calming, nourishing drink. Add a pinch of cinnamon, ginger, or cardamom for extra warmth.

• Powder: Stir into warm milk, herbal lattes, or even oatmeal for daily stress support.

• Tincture: Take a small dose in the evening to promote relaxation and restorative sleep.

Plant Meditation

Brew a strong cup of ashwagandha tea or tincture in warm water. Have your journal with you and find a comfortable seat. Light a candle and take a few deep breaths. Notice first ashwagandha’s scent. Does it remind you of anything? Does it awaken any thoughts or emotions? Then take a sip and notice the taste. Where does the taste land on your tongue?

After a few moments, notice the way it feels in your body. What is your immediate response to this plant? Are there any specific areas in which you notice sensations? How does your breath change? Does your body relax or feel tense? Note what comes up in your physical as well as your energetic body.

Begin to notice the way the plant’s energetics unfurl in your body. Does it feel different after a few minutes than it did initially? Is there anything that surprises you about this plant or its energetics?

Tune into Ashwgandha’s voice. Does it have any wisdom to share? Any message? Sometimes this can come in the form of images, a single word, or simply a feeling or sensation. Notice whatever subtle shifts occur, even if it doesn’t make rational sense. Note it in your journal so you can come back to it later. Sometimes it isn’t until days or even weeks later that these plant messages make sense or reflect something that’s alive for us at any given time.

Ritual Uses:

• Create a calming evening ritual with ashwagandha tincture or tea. Pair this with journaling about what you are ready to release, aligning with winter’s reflective energy.

• Add a small sachet of ashwagandha root or powder to a warm bath to infuse the water with its calming and restorative energy. As you soak, visualize your body absorbing the plant’s grounding and nourishing qualities.

• Place a small piece of ashwagandha root or powder in a dish on your winter altar. Use it as a focal point during meditative practices, reflecting on its energy of resilience and nourishment.

Reflective & Spiritual Practices

Journaling Prompt

• What areas of my life need restoration and nourishment this season? How can I create space to rebuild my reserves?

Glimpse Practice

• Imagine ashwagandha’s roots growing deep into the soil, anchoring you in stability and replenishing your energy from below. With each breath, draw that grounded strength into your body.

Precautions & Sustainable Use

Safety Notes:

• Ashwagandha is generally safe but should be avoided during pregnancy unless directed by a healthcare provider.

• Consult with a practitioner if taking medications for thyroid or autoimmune conditions.

Sourcing Tips:

• Choose sustainably harvested ashwagandha from reputable sources to honor the plant, its traditional use, and the soil in which it grows. I love Oshala Farm, Foster Farms, and Portland Ashwagandha Farm (they just carry tinctures).

Closing Reflection

Ashwagandha offers the gift of resilience and renewal, inviting you to restore your energy and anchor yourself in winter’s stillness. Like its roots, it encourages you to stay grounded while building strength for the seasons ahead.