The Air Type: Grounding and Restoring Rhythm
Air types in traditional herbalism are lively, quick-thinking, and easily scattered. When stressed, they may feel depleted, dry, or restless — not as a medical issue, but as a traditional pattern of imbalance.
How stress affects the air pattern
Busy periods often bring disrupted sleep, irregular eating, and low hydration — all of which contribute to a sense of dryness or depletion.
Food and drink that restore rhythm
Grounding foods help steady energy:
- oats, root vegetables, lentils
- proteins such as beans, fish, or eggs
- regular meals rather than grazing
Hydration works best in small, frequent sips. Warm herbal infusions, water, or oat milk support moisture. Oils from nuts, seeds, and olives help maintain comfort.
Movement and mind
Gentle strength training, Pilates, or steady outdoor walks help contain scattered energy. Slow breathing (inhale for four, exhale for six) promotes calm.
Herbal allies (traditional use)
Herbalists traditionally use:
Oat straw — for gentle nourishment of nerves and skin
Skullcap — to ease mental tension
Hawthorn — for emotional steadiness
Lavender — to soften anxiety
A simple tea blend
Oat straw, lavender, and hawthorn. Cover while steeping.
Safety and sourcing
Skullcap may interact with sleep medicines. Hawthorn may interact with heart or blood-pressure prescriptions. Use good-quality herbs.
Choose high-quality, organic herbs. The Sustainable Herbs Initiative has advice on buying responsibly.